NZ Superannuation Overseas: NZ Superannuation Overseas is becoming an increasingly important topic for thousands of New Zealanders choosing to retire abroad. With the rising cost of living and lifestyle changes, many retirees are now looking outside New Zealand for a peaceful and affordable retirement. The big question that arises is whether you can still receive your NZ Superannuation payments while living overseas.
In 2025, the rules around NZ Superannuation Overseas have been updated to provide more clarity. Payments can continue under specific conditions depending on where you move and how long you’ve lived in New Zealand. This article explains everything you need to know—from eligible countries and residency requirements to application steps and international agreements—so you can plan your retirement with confidence.
NZ Superannuation Overseas: Eligibility Rules & Approved Countries List
To receive NZ Superannuation Overseas, you must meet certain criteria. First, you should apply at least six weeks before leaving New Zealand if you plan to stay overseas for more than 26 weeks. Your eligibility is also based on how long you’ve lived in New Zealand since turning 20. Generally, 20 years of residence qualifies you for full payments, while shorter stays result in partial payments. The destination country also plays a big role—only countries with formal agreements or special portability arrangements are approved for continued payments.
Let’s break down the rules and approved destinations in the table below to give you a quick overview of your options.
Overview Table: NZ Superannuation Overseas 2025
| Key Information | Details |
| Eligible Countries | Australia, Canada, Denmark, Greece, Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey, Malta, Netherlands, South Korea, UK (limited), and 22 Pacific nations |
| Application Requirement | Must apply 6 weeks before departure if staying over 26 weeks |
| Temporary Absence Limit | Payments allowed for up to 26 weeks without an agreement |
| Payment Calculation | Based on years lived in NZ since age 20 |
| Full Payment Requirement | 20 years of residence in NZ |
| Partial Payment | 10–20 years of residence (pro-rated) |
| Non-Eligible Periods | Less than 10 years—generally not eligible |
| Additional Supplements | Not paid while overseas (e.g., Accommodation Supplement, Disability Allowance) |
| Payment Options | Into an overseas account every 4 weeks or NZ account every 2 weeks |
| Official Info Source | Work and Income NZ – International Services |
Understanding NZ Superannuation Portability
NZ Superannuation is the regular pension payment available to residents aged 65 and above. Portability means these payments can continue even when you live outside New Zealand—but only under specific conditions. Whether you qualify depends on your residency history and whether New Zealand has a social security agreement with your destination country.
If you move to an eligible country and meet the required conditions, you can receive payments similar to those living in New Zealand. However, if you don’t meet the criteria, your payments may stop after 26 weeks or be reduced.
Countries with Social Security Agreements
New Zealand has signed formal Social Security Agreements (SSAs) with various countries. These agreements make it easier for Kiwis to retire overseas and continue receiving their superannuation.
Countries with SSAs include:
- Australia
- Canada
- Denmark
- Greece
- Ireland
- Jersey and Guernsey
- Malta
- Netherlands
- South Korea
- United Kingdom (limited support only)
The SSA system usually allows combined residency periods between both countries to determine payment eligibility. However, note that while there is an agreement with the UK, NZ Superannuation cannot be paid to people residing there. Instead, the agreement helps people qualify for a UK pension.
Special Portability Arrangements with Pacific Countries
Apart from SSAs, there are Special Portability Arrangements with 22 Pacific nations. These arrangements enable eligible people to receive their NZ Superannuation while living in specific Pacific countries.
Approved Pacific countries include:
- American Samoa
- Cook Islands
- Federated States of Micronesia
- Fiji
- French Polynesia
- Guam
- Kiribati
- Marshall Islands
- Nauru
- New Caledonia
- Niue
- Northern Mariana Islands
- Palau
- Papua New Guinea
- Pitcairn Island
- Samoa
- Solomon Islands
- Tokelau
- Tonga
- Tuvalu
- Vanuatu
- Wallis and Futuna
To qualify, you must have been resident in New Zealand when applying and must intend to stay in the Pacific country for at least 52 weeks.
Residency Requirements and Payment Calculations
The amount of NZ Superannuation Overseas you can receive depends on how many years you’ve lived in New Zealand after the age of 20:
- 20+ years: You get the full basic superannuation payment.
- 10 to 19 years: You receive a proportional amount (e.g., 15 years = 75% of full rate).
- Less than 10 years: You’re generally not eligible for superannuation payments while overseas.
Additional payments such as the Accommodation Supplement or Disability Allowance are not available while living abroad.
Application Process for Overseas Payments
If you plan to retire or stay overseas for more than 26 weeks, you’ll need to apply in advance to continue receiving NZ Superannuation.
Here’s how the application process works:
- Apply Early: Submit your application at least 6 weeks before you leave.
- Required Documents: You’ll need to provide proof of identity, residency history, and your intended overseas address.
- Where to Apply: Contact the International Services team at Work and Income NZ.
- Payment Options: You can choose to receive payments in a foreign bank account every 4 weeks or in your NZ bank account every 2 weeks.
Planning early ensures no interruption to your payments once you’ve relocated.
Temporary Overseas Travel (Less Than 26 Weeks)
If you’re only going overseas for a short stay—less than 26 weeks—you can usually keep receiving your NZ Superannuation without issues. There’s no need to reapply in this case, but it’s always a good idea to notify Work and Income NZ about your travel plans.
This helps you stay compliant and avoids any accidental overpayments or rule breaches. Always check with International Services if you’re unsure.
FAQs
Q1: Can I receive NZ Superannuation in a non-agreement country?
A: Possibly, but payments may stop after 26 weeks. Always check with Work and Income NZ before moving.
Q2: Will I get the same amount overseas?
A: Not always. Payment depends on your years of residence in New Zealand since age 20.
Q3: Are there countries where superannuation isn’t paid?
A: Yes. Countries without agreements or portability arrangements may not qualify for payments.
Q4: Do I need to reapply if I move overseas?
A: Yes. Even if you already receive superannuation in NZ, you must reapply for overseas payments.
Q5: Where can I get more help?
A: Visit the Work and Income NZ website or contact their International Services team.
Final Thought
NZ Superannuation Overseas is a great option for Kiwis wanting to enjoy retirement in another part of the world. But it comes with rules—your eligibility depends on residency, international agreements, and advance planning. With proper preparation and guidance from Work and Income NZ, you can continue enjoying your superannuation wherever you choose to live.
Thinking of retiring abroad? Leave a comment or share this with someone planning the same. Explore more tips for retirement, travel, or even check your zodiac for fun insights on your next big move!
