New Zealand Superannuation beneficiaries

Overseas travel

Getting ready for a trip overseas, and suddenly the burden of your NZ Super benefit weighs on your mind? Many wonder how their island getaway or their skiing holiday will impact their payments. 

Travel is split into three distinct categories by the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) so the length of your overseas adventure becomes important.

Travelling overseas for 26 weeks or less

If you are travelling for less than 26 weeks, and you are only receiving New Zealand Superannuation (NZ Super) or a Veteran’s Pension, you do not need to notify MSD. You will continue to receive these payments while you are away. 

If you receive other payments such as an accommodation supplement or disability allowance, however, you must contact MSD. You may still be eligible for these payments for up to 28 days while you are away. However, you will need to be careful when travelling for long periods. If your trip lasts more than 30 weeks, you may have to pay back the full 26 weeks of payment you received. This all depends on whether your delay is expected or unexpected. 

Travelling overseas for more than 26 weeks

If you are travelling for more than 26 weeks, you may still be able to receive NZ Super or Veteran’s Pension payments. This section applies to those who still intend to keep New Zealand as their place of residence; it involves an application being made at least six weeks before you leave New Zealand. The assessment covers various aspects including things like time spent living in New Zealand between the ages of 20 and 65. Any other payments you receive will cease when you begin your travel.

Living overseas

If you are intending to move overseas, you may be happy to know that this does not immediately mean you will stop receiving your NZ Super or Veteran’s Pension payments. In this situation, you must also apply at least six weeks in advance of your departure from New Zealand. How much ongoing NZ Super or Veteran’s Pension you receive will depend on similar assessment criteria to travel longer than 26 weeks (see above), as well as the country you are moving to and its relationship with New Zealand. For example, New Zealand has transferable arrangements with 22 Pacific countries. 

The last thing you want to worry about when away on holiday is your NZ Super. Rest assured, if it is only a short trip, you need not worry; if it is a long sojourn, a touch of preparation may alleviate your stress. 

For the specifics of applications and further detail around other payments and arrangements relating to your overseas journey, Work and Income New Zealand’s website www.workandincome.govt.nz is very helpful or contact them on 0800 552 002.