CPP Disability: Can You Leave Canada or Travel While on Benefits?

Yes — you can travel or live outside Canada while receiving CPP Disability (CPP-D).
Your payments won’t stop just because you leave the country. CPP Disability is a federal benefit, and Service Canada continues paying it even when you’re abroad.

However, you must still meet CPP Disability’s definition of “severe and prolonged disability,” respond to Service Canada when contacted, and attend medical reviews when required.

Here’s everything you need to know before travelling while on CPP Disability.

Does CPP Disability Stop If You Leave Canada?

No.
You can receive CPP Disability payments while:

• Travelling outside Canada
• Staying abroad for an extended period
• Living in another country
• Moving between multiple countries throughout the year

CPP Disability does not require you to stay in Canada to maintain your payments.

Can You Go on Vacation While on CPP Disability?

Yes. You can travel freely as long as you:

• Remain medically eligible
• Complete any paperwork when requested
• Stay reachable for updates
• Provide medical records if CPP asks for them

Can You Live Outside Canada While on CPP Disability?

Yes — some Canadians receive CPP Disability while permanently living abroad.

You are still responsible for:

• Responding to Service Canada letters
• Completing medical questionnaires
• Updating your mailing address
• Returning forms on time
• Notifying them of major changes in your condition

Failure to respond to requests can cause payments to stop — but travelling itself does not.

Do You Need Permission to Leave the Country on CPP Disability?

No.
Unlike insurance-based long-term disability benefits, CPP Disability does not require approval for:

• Vacations
• International travel
• Temporary relocations
• Long-term stays abroad

Service Canada does not police your travel.

What Happens if CPP Disability Requests a Medical Review While You’re Abroad?

CPP Disability reviews claims periodically.
They may require:

• Updated medical forms
• New reports
• Specialist assessments

If you are outside Canada:

• You may be asked to complete forms through a local physician
• You may need to return to Canada for an in-person exam
• CPP may allow additional time if travel is difficult

Ignoring a medical review can lead to benefits being suspended.

Travel vs LTD Benefits: Be Careful if You’re on Both

Many Canadians receive CPP Disability + Long-Term Disability (LTD) at the same time.

Important:

• CPP Disability allows travel
• LTD insurers restrict travel and may deny claims because of it

If you’re receiving both:

• Get doctor approval
• Notify your LTD insurer
• Keep treatment consistent
• Follow all LTD policy rules

Can CPP Disability Be Suspended While You Are Abroad?

CPP Disability can be paused if:

• You don’t return required forms
• You fail to attend a required medical review
• You stop meeting the CPP-D disability definition
• Service Canada can’t contact you
• Your condition improves and you’re no longer eligible

Do You Lose CPP Disability If You Work While Outside Canada?

Yes — the same work restrictions apply whether you’re in Canada or abroad.

You must remain:

• Unable to regularly pursue any substantially gainful occupation
• Medically unable to sustain employment

Working outside Canada may be treated the same as working in Canada — and could lead to CPP Disability being reassessed.

Tips for Travelling While on CPP Disability

To avoid disruptions:

1. Keep Service Canada updated
   Provide a reliable mailing address or use a trusted family member’s address.
2. Keep copies of all medical records
   Especially if you’ll be gone for an extended period.
3. Check your mail regularly
   Missing a letter can cause an interruption in payments.
4. Respond to CPP quickly
   If asked for forms or updates, respond promptly even if abroad.
5. Plan for medical reviews
   If a review is scheduled while you’re away, notify them and ask about alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions About CPP Disability and Travel

Do CPP Disability payments stop if you leave Canada?

No. They continue while travelling or living abroad.

Do you need permission to travel on CPP Disability?

No. CPP does not restrict travel.

Can you live permanently outside Canada on CPP Disability?

Yes.

Will a medical review stop my travel?

No — but you must complete all required forms.

Can I work while outside Canada if I’m on CPP Disability?

No. Work anywhere may affect eligibility.

When to Speak With a Disability Lawyer

You may need legal help if:

• CPP Disability is suspended while you’re abroad
• Service Canada claims you’re “no longer disabled”
• Your LTD insurer is cutting off benefits because of travel
• Your insurer blames CPP approval for changes to your LTD payments
• You’re being pressured to return to work

At Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, our long-term disability lawyers have helped thousands of Canadians protect their benefits and challenge unfair decisions.

• ✅ Free consultation
• ✅ No upfront fees
• ✅ Millions recovered
• ✅ Canada’s most-reviewed disability law firm