State Pension (Contributory) - payable outside the state?

Kotek Besar

A family member of mine is currently aged 55. She first started working in Ireland and paying PRSI in 2009 at the age of 54. She will reach pensionable age (66) in 2021.

She may stop working at aged 60, in 2015. At this point, she will have at least 5 years PRSI contributions paid. Under current rules, 10 years PRSI contributions are required in order for someone in my family member's circumstances to qualify for the State Pension (Contributory), however up to 5 years may be voluntary if at least 5 years non-voluntary contributions have been paid.

Let's say after 5 years in employment she stops working and pays voluntary contributions. She will qualify for the State Pension (Contributory) at age 66 in 2021.

My question is, is the State Pension (Contributory) payable to someone even if they are not resident in the state? My family member may not be living here at that time. Additionally, prior to her reaching pensionable age, is the payment of voluntary contributions by a person resident outside the state permissible?

Many thanks.

mp22

http://www.citizensinformation.ie/categories/social-welfare/social-welfare-payments/older-and-retired-people/state-pension-contributory
have a read here!