What happens to my KiwiSaver account if I permanently move overseas?

If you permanently move to a country other than Australia, you can generally apply to withdraw your KiwiSaver savings after you've lived overseas permanently for at least one year.

You can withdraw most of your savings, but any government contributions must be returned to the government.

How to apply

See our Permanent Emigration Withdrawal form for the eligibility requirements and how to apply.

Moving to Australia?

Different rules apply. If you're moving permanently to Australia, you can transfer your KiwiSaver savings to an eligible Australian superannuation scheme rather than withdrawing them in cash.