Generally, section 202(t)(11) of the Social Security Act requires certain non-U.S.
citizen dependents and survivors who have been outside the United States for more
than 6 months to satisfy a 5-year U.S. residency requirement to receive benefits.
During this 5-year residence, the dependent or survivor must have been in a family
relationship with the number holder (NH). However, section 202(t)(11)E makes an exception
for individuals who are citizens or residents of a foreign country with which the
U.S. has a Totalization agreement to the extent provided in such an agreement. For
Alien Nonpayment Exemptions Under Totalization Agreements see GN 01701.150A.2., for 5-Year Residency Requirements for Alien Dependents/Survivors Outside the United
States see RS 02610.025, and for 5-Year Residency Requirements for Spouses, Natural Child, Adopted Child,
and a Parent see RS 02610.030.