How Long Must You Live in Canada to Qualify for the Old Age Security Pension?
Learn the residency requirements to qualify for Canada’s Old Age Security pension, including full and partial pension eligibility criteria.
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To qualify for the Old Age Security (OAS) pension in Canada, you must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18. For a full OAS pension, the requirement is 40 years of residency. Partial pensions are available for those with less residency, prorated based on the number of years lived in Canada.
FAQs & Answers
- What are the residency requirements for the Old Age Security pension in Canada? To qualify for the Old Age Security pension, you must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18. A full pension requires 40 years of residency, while partial pensions are prorated based on years lived.
- Can I receive a partial Old Age Security pension if I lived in Canada less than 40 years? Yes, if you have lived in Canada for at least 10 years but less than 40 years after age 18, you can receive a partial OAS pension that is prorated according to your residency.
- Is the Old Age Security pension automatically applied for once qualified? No, you need to apply for the Old Age Security pension. It’s recommended to apply around your 65th birthday to ensure timely payments.
- Does time lived in Canada before age 18 count towards OAS pension eligibility? No, only years lived in Canada after turning 18 count toward the Old Age Security residency requirement.