How do I withdraw my social security contributions (pension & medical insurance) when leaving China?

en.hainan.gov.cn

Updated: 2025-06-23

Q: How do I withdraw my social security contributions (pension & medical insurance) when leaving China?

A: According to Chinese regulations, your options depend on whether you have reached China's statutory retirement age (60 for men, 55 for women) when you leave the country.

1. If you leave China before reaching retirement age:

You have two options:

• Option A: Retain your account.

Your personal social insurance account will be kept. If you return to work in China in the future, your contribution years will be accumulated.

• Option B: Close the account and withdraw funds.

You can submit a written application to terminate your social insurance relationship and withdraw the balance in your personal pension insurance account in a lump sum.

2. If you leave China after reaching retirement age:

If you have met the qualifying conditions (including the required minimum contribution years), you are entitled to receive a monthly pension, which can typically be arranged to be paid to an overseas bank account. For specific procedures, it is advised to consult with the local social insurance authority.

How to apply for withdrawal (before retirement age):

• If you are still employed:

You can submit a written application to your employer. The company's HR department will then process the account termination and withdrawal on your behalf at the local social insurance center.

• If your employment has already ended:

You can personally submit the written application to the local social insurance center or an authorized community service center.

Important notice for medical insurance withdrawal:

According to regulations for employee basic medical insurance, after your pension insurance is terminated, you can apply to settle the funds in your personal medical insurance account.

• Prerequisite: Before the settlement, any outstanding or unreimbursed medical expenses (for outpatient, emergency, hospitalization or home care) must be cleared first.

• Procedure: Bring the required documents to the local medical insurance center.

• For large amounts: If the settlement amount exceeds 10,000 yuan, you are required to make an appointment in advance. The funds will be processed within 10 working days after your appointment.