Understanding the 26-Week Rule for NZ Super
For many NZ Super or Veteran's Pension recipients, a temporary trip overseas can be taken without a major change to your payments. The key threshold for a simple holiday is 26 weeks or less. If you plan to be away for this duration, your payments may continue as usual, and you typically do not need to inform Work and Income if that's the only payment you receive. However, if you receive additional assistance, such as the Accommodation Supplement or Winter Energy Payment, you must notify them, as these payments will likely stop sooner. It is important that you maintain New Zealand as your primary home and intend to return.
What happens if you're delayed?
Life can be unpredictable. If an unexpected event, like a sudden illness or a travel disruption, causes you to be away for longer than the initial 26 weeks, you may be able to apply to continue your payments. This application must be made before the 26-week period ends. If the delay was expected, for instance, a planned extension of your holiday, your pension will likely be affected. The rules differ based on whether the delay was under your control, and can sometimes result in having to repay the payments received.
Long-Term Travel and Living Overseas
For those planning to be overseas for more than 26 weeks, the rules are different and require advance planning. You cannot simply leave and expect payments to continue. Instead, you must apply to Work and Income's International Services at least six weeks before your departure. The amount you receive will then depend on your circumstances and your destination.
Social Security Agreement (SSA) Countries
New Zealand has SSAs with several countries, including Australia, Canada, Denmark, Greece, Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey, and the Netherlands. If you move to one of these countries, the rules of the specific agreement will determine your pension eligibility and rate. For example, if you move to Australia, you must qualify for the Australian Age Pension to receive your NZ Super, which can involve income and asset testing. It's vital to research the specific agreement relevant to your chosen country and to apply to Work and Income before leaving.
The Pacific Islands Arrangement
There is a special portability arrangement with a number of Pacific countries, including the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau. If you intend to live in one of these locations for more than 52 weeks, you may receive a portion of your NZ Super. The percentage is based on the number of years you resided in New Zealand between the ages of 20 and 65. Full payments require 20 or more years of residency during this period, while ten years of residency grants half the basic rate.
Comparison of Overseas Rules
| Scenario | Absence Duration | Action Required | What Happens to NZ Super? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Holiday | ≤ 26 weeks | Generally no action required if only receiving NZ Super | Payments continue |
| Long-Term Travel | > 26 weeks | Must apply to International Services 6+ weeks before departure | Payments continue, potentially at a proportional rate |
| Moving to SSA Country | Permanent | Must apply to International Services 6+ weeks before departure | Depends on the specific SSA; may need to qualify for local pension |
| Moving to Pacific Country | > 52 weeks | Must apply to International Services 6+ weeks before departure | Payments are proportional to years of NZ residency |
| Humanitarian Work | Up to 156 weeks | Must contact Work and Income's International Services | Payments can continue under specific conditions |
The Application and Notification Process
For any long-term travel or moving overseas, the onus is on you to contact Work and Income and apply for the continuation of your payments. Calling the International Services team is the first step, and it is recommended to do so at least six weeks prior to your departure. For humanitarian work, which is unpaid, full-time voluntary work for a recognized aid agency, you can potentially receive payments for up to 156 weeks (3 years). However, this also requires approval and meeting specific criteria. A list of recognized agencies can be confirmed with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT). The New Zealand Government website offers an official resource to begin this process: If you travel overseas | New Zealand Government.
Impact on Partner and Other Benefits
An important consideration is the impact on a partner's payments. If your partner is included in your NZ Super or Veteran's Pension, their payments will typically stop when you travel for more than 26 weeks. They may need to reapply for their own entitlement upon returning to New Zealand. Additionally, any supplementary benefits, such as the Winter Energy Payment or Accommodation Supplement, will cease after a much shorter time abroad, usually 28 days.
Conclusion
Understanding the rules for overseas travel while receiving NZ Super or Veteran's Pension is essential to avoid disruptions to your income. For short trips under 26 weeks, there is minimal impact, but longer absences or permanent moves require careful planning and communication with Work and Income's International Services. Whether moving to an SSA country, a Pacific nation, or undertaking humanitarian work, the specific rules and required application processes will determine the continuation and amount of your pension payments. By understanding these regulations and acting proactively, seniors can enjoy their time abroad without financial uncertainty.
