KiwiSaver Withdrawal for Overseas New Zealanders

If you are a New Zealander living permanently overseas, you have the right to withdraw your entire KiwiSaver balance as a lump sum. This is one of the most significant financial entitlements available to Kiwi emigrants, yet thousands have never claimed it.

Eligibility requirements

To qualify for a permanent emigration withdrawal you must: have been living outside New Zealand for at least 12 months continuously, have permanently emigrated with no intention of returning to live in New Zealand, and not be an Australian citizen or permanent resident living in Australia (different rules apply).

The withdrawal process

You need to apply to your KiwiSaver provider with proof of permanent emigration. This includes evidence of your overseas address, a statutory declaration confirming permanent emigration, and identification documents. The process typically takes 4-8 weeks once all documentation is submitted.

How we help

Many New Zealanders overseas do not even know which provider holds their KiwiSaver. We research the 30+ registered KiwiSaver providers using your employment history and prepare a complete request pack for each fund we identify, written and ready to send under your signed Information Request Authority (IRA) to locate your account, then guide you through the withdrawal application. We do not access myIR or RealMe-protected Inland Revenue systems.

Tax implications

KiwiSaver withdrawals for permanent emigrants are generally not subject to New Zealand tax on the member's contributions and returns. However, the government contribution portion may be subject to different rules. We recommend seeking specific tax advice for your situation.

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