UK ends cheaper Class 2 National Insurance route for expats starting April 6

The United Kingdom has ended voluntary Class 2 National Insurance contributions for time spent abroad starting April 6, 2026. Most expats, self-employed workers and employers who once used the cheaper route to fill pension gaps now face Class 3 instead, which costs far more and comes with tighter eligibility checks.

HM Revenue and Customs kept a few exceptions in place. People covered by a social security agreement and certain volunteer development workers can still pay Class 2 and older Class 3 arrangements for time abroad before April 6 remain under transitional rules.

Who feels the impact

The change hits UK expats and digital nomads with gaps in their National Insurance record the hardest. Class 2 used to cost about £3.45 to £3.50 a week or roughly £180 a year. Class 3 now runs about £17.75 a week or around £923 a year at current rates.

New Class 3 applicants must show either 10 continuous years of UK residency or 10 qualifying years on their National Insurance record. That bars many people who no longer have a strong UK link, though it doesn't affect tourists because they don't have NI records.

What to check next

HMRC says applicants should use form CF83 and review their National Insurance record before applying. People not yet at pension age can check their state pension forecast online, while those near retirement can contact the International Pension Centre.

Anyone who started a pre-April 6 application before the cutoff may still have until April 5, 2027 to pay under the old rules. Read our full United Kingdom guide for the complete picture and follow visa updates for more country policy changes.