UK State Pension: The Full Rate and How Many Qualifying Years You Need
In this guide
Quick answer: GOV.UK says the full new State Pension is £241.30 a week. You need 35 qualifying years on your National Insurance record for the full rate if your record started after April 2016. If you were contracted out before 2016, you will usually need more than 35.
What does the new State Pension pay?
| Item | GOV.UK |
|---|---|
| Full new State Pension | £241.30 a week |
| Qualifying years for the full rate (record started after April 2016) | 35 |
| If you were contracted out before 2016 | Usually more than 35 |
Why this matters if you moved to the UK
Qualifying years come from your National Insurance record. Newcomers start with an empty record, so the years you work and pay National Insurance in the UK count toward the total. Start by getting your National Insurance number.
What this page does not say
The GOV.UK page we checked does not state the minimum number of years to get any pension, or how years abroad are treated. Check the official State Pension forecast tool or GOV.UK guidance before making plans.
Common mistakes
- Assuming you can start planning only near retirement age.
- Not checking your National Insurance record for gaps.
FAQ
Is the rate fixed forever?
No. Rates change, so check GOV.UK for the current amount.
Key takeaways
- The full new State Pension is £241.30 a week.
- 35 qualifying years are needed for the full rate for most people.
- Your UK National Insurance record is where your years are counted.
Related guides
- First 90 days in a new country
- National Insurance number for newcomers
- UK payslip explained
- UK tax residence explained
Last updated: October 2026. Rates change, so check the official page. This is general information, not financial advice.
Sources
- GOV.UK: The new State Pension, what you’ll get