Kiwisaver Permanent Emigration Withdrawal Form
If you’ve decided to leave New Zealand permanently, one of the important financial steps you may consider is accessing your KiwiSaver funds. While KiwiSaver is primarily a retirement savings plan, it does allow for early withdrawals under certain conditions one of which is permanent emigration. To begin this process, individuals must complete the KiwiSaver Permanent Emigration Withdrawal Form. Understanding this form, how it works, and the rules behind it is essential to ensure your application is approved smoothly and without delay.
What Is the KiwiSaver Permanent Emigration Withdrawal?
The KiwiSaver Permanent Emigration Withdrawal allows eligible individuals who have left New Zealand permanently to withdraw most of their KiwiSaver funds. This process is only available once you have been overseas for at least one full year and can provide proof of permanent relocation.
It’s important to note that you may not be able to withdraw the entire balance. Government contributions and certain fees might not be accessible depending on your destination country. This withdrawal is a formal process that requires documentation, including a specific form submitted to your KiwiSaver provider.
Who Is Eligible?
You may apply for this withdrawal if:
- You have permanently emigrated from New Zealand.
- You have lived overseas for at least 12 consecutive months.
- You are not moving to Australia (different rules apply under the Trans-Tasman portability agreement).
If you are emigrating to Australia, you are not eligible to use the permanent emigration withdrawal form. Instead, your funds may be transferred to an Australian superannuation scheme under a different process.
Purpose of the KiwiSaver Permanent Emigration Withdrawal Form
The KiwiSaver Permanent Emigration Withdrawal Form is the official document required to begin the withdrawal process. Each KiwiSaver provider may use a slightly different version of the form, but the core information requested is usually the same.
The form serves as a formal declaration that you have left the country and wish to access your KiwiSaver savings under the emigration clause. Submitting it with proper documentation allows your provider to verify your eligibility and release the funds accordingly.
Typical Information Required on the Form
- Your full name and KiwiSaver member number
- Your IRD (Inland Revenue Department) number
- Details of your overseas address
- Your bank account details (overseas or NZ, depending on the provider)
- Reason for the withdrawal (permanent emigration)
- Declaration of permanent departure from New Zealand
Required Supporting Documents
Submitting the form alone is not enough. You will need to include documentation to prove that you have permanently moved overseas. Without these documents, your application will not be processed.
Commonly Required Documents
- Passport showing departure from New Zealand
- Proof of overseas residence (utility bills, rental agreements, bank statements)
- Evidence of at least 12 months living abroad
- Statutory declaration witnessed by an authorised person outside of New Zealand (such as a notary public)
All documents must be in English or accompanied by certified English translations. Some providers may require certified copies or originals depending on their internal verification policies.
Steps to Complete the Process
With the correct documents and form, the withdrawal process can be fairly straightforward. However, careful attention to detail is necessary to avoid delays.
Step-by-Step Process
- Contact your KiwiSaver provider and request the specific Permanent Emigration Withdrawal Form.
- Complete the form in full and sign where required.
- Collect and attach all required documents.
- Have your statutory declaration witnessed by an authorised person in your country of residence.
- Submit the form and documents to your KiwiSaver provider either by post or electronically (if accepted).
- Wait for confirmation and disbursement of your eligible funds.
Processing times may vary by provider, but it typically takes 10 to 20 business days once all documents are verified.
What You Can and Cannot Withdraw
The total amount you can withdraw depends on the contributions made to your account and whether you received government incentives. Not all funds are eligible for withdrawal under this condition.
Withdrawable Amounts
- Your personal contributions
- Your employer’s contributions
- Any investment returns earned
Non-Withdrawable Amounts
- Government kick-start contributions (if applicable)
- Any remaining tax credits or subsidies not deemed eligible
In some cases, you may be required to pay tax on the amount withdrawn, particularly if it is transferred to a foreign account or if required by local regulations in your new country of residence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To avoid processing delays, be mindful of the most common errors applicants make when completing the KiwiSaver Permanent Emigration Withdrawal Form.
Frequent Issues
- Submitting the form before 12 months of overseas residence have passed
- Missing or outdated proof of residency abroad
- Not having the statutory declaration properly witnessed
- Providing incorrect bank account details
- Sending unclear or non-certified document copies
Double-checking all information before submission can save time and frustration.
What Happens After Approval?
Once your withdrawal is approved, the funds will be transferred to your nominated bank account. Depending on your provider and banking arrangement, the transfer may take a few days. Your KiwiSaver account will usually be closed upon successful withdrawal.
Keep in mind that once this process is completed, you will no longer be a KiwiSaver member, and future contributions are not possible unless you return to New Zealand and re-enroll under new eligibility conditions.
Considerations Before Applying
Withdrawing your KiwiSaver funds upon emigration is a personal financial decision. While the ability to access your savings can offer financial relief or support in your new country, it’s important to think long-term about your retirement plans, tax implications, and local investment opportunities.
Some emigrants choose to leave their KiwiSaver accounts untouched to preserve savings or to allow for potential return to New Zealand. Consulting a financial advisor who understands cross-border finances is recommended for those unsure about the best course of action.
The KiwiSaver Permanent Emigration Withdrawal Form is a vital document for accessing your retirement savings after moving overseas permanently. While the process is straightforward for those who meet the criteria, it demands accurate documentation, proper timing, and careful preparation. Whether you’re relocating for career opportunities, lifestyle changes, or family reasons, being informed about how KiwiSaver fits into your new life abroad ensures you make the best use of your hard-earned savings.