Travelling abroad

plasfron

I am aware that when in receipt of PIP one can only travel abroad for a maximum of 13 weeks.
I'm assuming that this is in any one year and could be repeated in subsequent years. Am I correct?

If I am correct, would it then be allowable to spend the last 13 weeks of 2020 abroad and continue with the first 13 weeks of 2021 before returning to the UK?

plasfron

On reflection, this idea, even if allowed, would prevent another overseas visit until 2022. However, would still like confirmation on this and whether the 13 week period is an annual allowance.
Thank you.

katho31

im not too sure, someone will post with advice soon 

janer1967

Hi I am not too sure about this but I would think it wold count as one continuous period as you would not actually be returning home so would class as a 26 week break. 

In order for them to be classed as seperate periods you would have to return home. I don't know if it a yearly allowance 

woodbine

As @janer1967 says without returning home it would be one period of 26 weeks. The 13 weeks can be extended to 26 weeks if you are travelling for medical reasons, in either case you need to inform them if you are going abroad for more than 4 weeks.

plasfron

Thank you all for your advice.
Can you confirm that the 13 weeks is an annual allowance?

katho31

yes, thats what we read online earlier? can someone confirm please? 

woodbine

There is no clear guidance I can find about an "annual allowance" I suspect thats not how it works, could be that you are allowed 13 weeks in a calendar year, there used to be a linking period for some benefits, perhaps someone who knows more will see this.

Topkitten

I'm sorry but I cannot believe that anyone who has been isolating would even consider going abroad. Going through what is likely to be busy terminals, confined in a cramped space with recycled air and almost certain contact just trying to get to the toilet and then meeting many strangers. This increases the potential for catching a virus that has terrified the country into almost complete inaction. However, considering the numbers going to bars etc. and not even thinking of social distancing when sober I cannot say I am surprised that ignorance rules the world.

There still isn't, as I predicted, a cure for Covid and, despite rumours to the contrary, nor is there ever likely to be. Covid is similar to SARS and despite that occurring in the 1970's there never has been a cure.

TK