Moving overseas raises questions about what happens to your KiwiSaver. The rules depend on where you are going, how long you are away, and your intentions for returning. Understanding your options helps you make informed decisions about your retirement savings.
Your KiwiSaver remains invested even when you live abroad, but some benefits and withdrawal options change.
Permanent Emigration Withdrawal
If you permanently emigrate from New Zealand (except to Australia), you may be able to withdraw your KiwiSaver after being overseas for at least 12 months. This is called permanent emigration withdrawal.
Important: You cannot withdraw your full balance. Any government contributions you have received must be repaid to the government before your account is closed. You receive your personal contributions, employer contributions, and investment returns minus the government contributions.
You must provide evidence that you have left New Zealand permanently with no intention of returning. Required documentation includes:
- •A statutory declaration (signed by someone equivalent to a JP or notary public)
- •Evidence of departure from NZ (travel arrangements)
- •Proof of overseas address at arrival (utility bill, bank statement, rental agreement)
- •Evidence of address after the 12-month period
Once withdrawn under permanent emigration, you cannot rejoin KiwiSaver if you later return to New Zealand. The withdrawal is treated as final.
Alternative: Transfer Before 12 Months
If it has been less than 12 months since you permanently emigrated, you have another option. You can transfer your entire KiwiSaver balance to a foreign superannuation scheme that is authorised under regulations made under section 228 of the KiwiSaver Act.
This allows you to consolidate your retirement savings in your new country without waiting 12 months, though the receiving scheme must be an approved participating scheme.
Moving To Australia
Moving to Australia has special rules. You can transfer your KiwiSaver to an Australian complying superannuation fund regulated by APRA rather than withdrawing it.
This transfer preserves your retirement savings in a similar locked-in structure. You cannot access the funds until you meet Australian preservation age requirements (55-60 depending on birth date).
Permanent emigration withdrawal is not available if you move to Australia. Transfer is the only option.
Temporary Overseas Periods
If you are overseas temporarily for work, study, or travel, your KiwiSaver simply remains invested. You are still a member and your balance continues growing with investment returns.
You can continue making voluntary contributions while overseas. Set up international payments if you want to maintain contributions.
The government contribution is available only if you are mainly living in New Zealand. Extended overseas periods will affect eligibility.
Contributions While Overseas
Employed New Zealand residents working overseas for their employer may continue having KiwiSaver contributions deducted. Discuss with your employer and payroll provider.
Self-employed people overseas can make voluntary contributions if they choose. There is no requirement to contribute while overseas.
If you work for an overseas employer, there is no employer contribution pathway. Any contributions would be voluntary.
Returning To New Zealand
Returning to New Zealand after a temporary period overseas does not require any special action for KiwiSaver. Your account remains active and contributions can resume.
If you withdrew under permanent emigration and later return, you cannot rejoin KiwiSaver. This is an important consideration before choosing permanent withdrawal.
Keeping Your Balance Invested
Many people moving overseas choose to leave their KiwiSaver invested rather than withdraw. The balance continues growing and remains available for first home purchase or retirement.
If you might return to New Zealand or want to keep the first home withdrawal option, leaving your balance invested is sensible.
Investment returns continue regardless of where you live. Your provider manages your funds the same way.
Government Contribution Eligibility
To receive the government contribution (up to $260.72 per year), you must mainly live in New Zealand. Short trips overseas do not affect eligibility, but extended periods abroad do.
If you are overseas for most of a contribution year (1 July to 30 June), you will not receive the government contribution for that period.
Returning to New Zealand restores eligibility for contributions made after your return.
Practical Considerations
Update your contact details with your KiwiSaver provider before moving. You need to receive important communications about your account.
Consider whether to continue contributions while overseas. If not eligible for the government contribution anyway, you might direct savings elsewhere.
Review your fund choice before extended overseas periods. Ensure your investment approach remains appropriate for your timeline and access to the account.
Getting Advice
If your overseas situation is complex, seek advice before making decisions. Tax implications may vary depending on your destination country.
A financial adviser can help you understand the implications of different choices for your overall retirement planning.
Contact your KiwiSaver provider to understand their specific processes for overseas members.
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