Paying UK National Insurance When Living In Spain

Moving to Spain doesn’t necessarily mean you should stop thinking about your UK National Insurance contributions. Whether you plan to return to the UK in the future or not, continuing to make voluntary contributions could protect your entitlement to the UK State Pension and other benefits.

In 2025, tens of thousands of British expats living in the EU — including Spain — still voluntarily top up their National Insurance contributions to avoid pension gaps and preserve access to certain benefits. This guide explains why it matters, who can pay, how much it costs, and how to stay compliant while living abroad.

Why Pay Voluntary National Insurance from Spain?

If you’ve previously lived or worked in the UK, contributing even a modest amount each year can help you maintain your eligibility for key UK benefits. Voluntary contributions count towards:

• The UK State Pension (currently £221.20 per week max in 2025)
• Maternity allowance
• Bereavement benefits (widowed parent’s allowance, bereavement support payment)
• Employment and support allowance (if returning to the UK)
• Contribution-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (UK residents)

Many of these only apply if you return to the UK — but the State Pension and bereavement benefits can still be claimed while living abroad in Spain.

Do You Qualify to Pay Voluntary NICs?

You may be eligible to make voluntary contributions if:

• You’ve lived in the UK continuously for at least 3 years at some point
• You previously paid Class 1 or Class 2 NICs for 3 years or more
• You moved abroad and are currently not paying UK NICs through employment or self-employment

Class 2 vs Class 3 NICs (2025 Rates)

There are two main classes of voluntary contributions expats can pay:

Class 2 NICs – £3.45 per week (2025)

You may be eligible if you were employed or self-employed just before leaving the UK. Class 2 contributions count towards the full State Pension and cost significantly less than Class 3. You can pay them if:

• You lived in the UK for 3+ years or paid NICs for 3+ years
• You were employed/self-employed or actively seeking work when you left

Class 3 NICs – £17.45 per week (2025)

If you don’t qualify for Class 2, you may still be able to pay Class 3 contributions. These also count towards the State Pension but do not count towards some other benefits (e.g. ESA or Maternity Allowance).

• You must have UK residency history (3+ years)
• You must not be eligible for Class 2

Making Contributions from Spain

There are three ways to pay voluntary contributions:

• Via direct debit every 4 or 5 weeks (Class 2 only)
• Annual payments in a lump sum
• Quarterly bills (Class 3)

To get started, use the official GOV.UK resources:

• Pay Class 2 National Insurance
• Pay Class 3 National Insurance

Filling Gaps in Your NIC Record

You can generally make voluntary payments for up to six previous tax years. If you missed contributions due to unemployment, illness, or moving abroad, it’s worth checking your record.

To view your current NIC record and gaps, visit: Check your National Insurance record.

How Many Years Do You Need for a UK State Pension?

To qualify for the full new State Pension in 2025 (£221.20/week), you need:

• 35 qualifying years of NICs for full amount
• 10 qualifying years to receive any amount

If you fall short, Class 2 or Class 3 payments could make the difference — especially if you're approaching State Pension age and want to avoid a shortfall.

More details here: New UK State Pension

NI38 Form – The Official Guide for Expats

The NI38 form is the key reference document if you're living abroad and want to pay voluntary NICs. It explains the process, eligibility, and rights of those outside the UK.

Download it here: NI38 – Social Security Abroad

Should You Keep Paying from Spain?

In most cases, yes — especially if:

• You’re planning to retire with a UK State Pension
• You want to avoid a pension shortfall
• You’re still eligible for other UK benefits tied to NICs

The cost of missing years can be significant — whereas topping up can often be done for under £180 per year if you qualify for Class 2 rates.

Need Health Cover While Living in Spain?

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