If you’re receiving New Zealand Superannuation (NZ Super) and planning international travel in 2025, you need to understand how time spent overseas can impact your payments. The Ministry of Social Development (MSD) enforces specific rules that could lead to your super being paused or stopped altogether depending on your travel duration and destination. As of May 2025, stricter enforcement and updated processing timelines make it even more important to stay informed.
What Happens to NZ Super When You Leave New Zealand?
Generally, if you leave New Zealand for more than 26 weeks (about six months), your NZ Super payments may stop unless you meet certain conditions. Shorter trips usually don’t impact your entitlement, but it’s crucial to notify MSD before you leave. The key factor is whether your absence qualifies under the rules for continuing payments.
If you’re planning travel that exceeds the 26-week threshold, MSD considers factors like the purpose of your travel, your connection to New Zealand, and whether you qualify for a special portability arrangement. Without approval, payments typically stop from the date you leave the country.
Key Rules You Must Follow When Travelling Overseas in 2025
To avoid disruption to your NZ Super, here are the main rules you must comply with:
- Notify MSD Before You Leave – You must inform the Ministry of Social Development about your travel plans, even for short-term trips.
- Don’t Exceed 26 Weeks Without Approval – If you’re planning to be away for longer than six months, you’ll need to apply under the Special Portability or Direct Payment schemes.
- Residency Must Be Maintained – You must continue to be a resident of New Zealand for your super to continue. Extended overseas stays can call your residency status into question.
- Apply for Overseas Payments If Eligible – You may be eligible to receive some or all of your NZ Super abroad if you meet criteria under international social security agreements.
- Update MSD on Any Changes – Changes in your return plans or extended stays must be reported immediately.
Countries Where NZ Super Can Be Paid
New Zealand has social security agreements with several countries, allowing Kiwis to receive NZ Super while living abroad. However, each agreement has its own conditions.
| Country | Can Receive NZ Super? | Conditions Apply |
|---|---|---|
| Australia | Yes | Agreement in place |
| United Kingdom | Yes | Based on residency history |
| Canada | Yes | Requires application approval |
| Ireland | Yes | Residency and contribution checks |
| Netherlands | Yes | Through Totalisation Agreements |
Before relying on payments overseas, check the exact rules for your destination country through Work and Income or MSD’s website.
What If You Don’t Follow the Rules?
Failing to comply with NZ Super travel regulations could result in overpayments that you’ll have to repay, or your pension being cut off without warning. MSD has enhanced cross-border information checks in 2025, making it easier to track when individuals leave the country and for how long. This means any discrepancies or unreported travel can quickly flag your account for review.
In some cases, this can even impact your eligibility long-term, especially if the Ministry concludes you’ve moved your primary residence offshore.
Conclusion
Travelling while receiving NZ Super in 2025 requires careful planning and awareness of the rules. With updated systems and increased monitoring, staying in compliance is more important than ever. If you’re unsure how your plans might affect your payments, speak to MSD or seek professional advice well before you travel. Don’t let a trip jeopardize your financial stability—stay informed and stay eligible.
FAQ – NZ Super and Overseas Travel in 2025
How long can I be overseas before my NZ Super stops?
If you’re out of the country for more than 26 weeks without prior approval, your payments will usually stop from your departure date.
Can I still get NZ Super if I move overseas permanently?
Yes, in some cases—if you’re moving to a country with a social security agreement with New Zealand and meet the criteria.
What should I do before leaving New Zealand?
Notify MSD, check if you’re eligible for overseas payments, and make sure all your documents and travel dates are submitted in advance.
What if my travel plans change?
You must update MSD immediately if you plan to extend your stay or return earlier than expected.
Will I have to pay back my NZ Super if I travel too long?
Yes, if you’re overpaid due to unreported or extended travel, MSD will seek repayment.
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