United Kingdom · The Thaiger
Frozen UK pensions: why Thailand’s British retirees lose out
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Frozen UK pensions mean British retirees in Thailand receive a State Pension that stays at the same weekly rate for as long as they live in the Kingdom, however much prices rise . A campaign group is now urging those affected to register to vote in the UK, arguing that organised pressure on MPs is the only realistic route to changing the policy.
Key facts
- In the UK, the State Pension rises each April under the triple lock, by whichever is highest of inflation, average earnings growth or 2.5%
- The full new State Pension rose by 4.8% this April to £241.30 (about 10,600 baht) a week.
- Frozen UK pensions mean British retirees in Thailand receive a State Pension that stays at the same weekly rate for as long as they live in the Kingdom, however much prices rise
- The rule applies to anyone living in Thailand who built up a UK State Pension through National Insurance contributions, regardless of nationality
- Since January 16, 2024, British citizens abroad who have previously lived or been registered to vote in the UK can register for UK general elections, however long they have lived overseas
- Campaigners have also submitted evidence to the UK’s Pensions Commission, whose final report is expected in spring 2027.
Summary
The rule applies to anyone living in Thailand who built up a UK State Pension through National Insurance contributions, regardless of nationality. That includes Thai nationals and others who worked in the UK before moving here.
How the freeze works