Going overseas for a short time
You may be able to go to another country and continue getting certain types of New Zealand benefit or pension. It’s important that you talk to us before you travel.
Please contact us before you travel
The rules for getting benefits or pensions when you travel can be complex but we're here to help.
We can explain how the rules affect you and help you get your correct entitlement. You should contact us before you leave New Zealand. If you don't let us know before you leave New Zealand, you may not be able to get benefit or pension payments overseas and you may miss out on payments.
Getting NZ Superannuation or Veteran’s Pension while you visit another country
Please visit our page:
Getting a NZ benefit while you visit another country
You may be able to get some benefits while you're overseas. In most cases you still have to meet the rules for getting your assistance while you're away.
Normally you may be able to get your usual payments for up to four weeks for the following benefits:
- Domestic Purposes Benefits
- Widow's Benefit
- Sickness Benefit
- Orphan's Benefit
- Unsupported Child's Benefit
- Independent Youth Benefit
- Emergency Benefit
In some circumstances you may be able to be paid for longer but you must contact us before you travel.
Invalid’s Benefit
Normally you may be able to get your usual payments for up to six weeks.
You may be able to be paid for longer if you travel overseas to either:
- have medical treatment
- attend a specific vocational training course
- get disability assistance dog training.
You must talk to us about this before you travel. If you go to a country that has a social security agreement with New Zealand, please contact our International Services team.
War pensions, allowances and grants
Most war pensions, allowance and grants aren’t affected by where you live.
For more information please visit:
Other benefits
For any other benefits, unless you have exceptional circumstances, your payments stop the day after you leave.
Help during an international custody or access dispute
If you're involved in an international custody or access dispute over the care of your children, and are struggling financially, we may be able to help.
You may also like to read our brochure:
Are you going overseas? (PDF 310.66KB)
A guide to what happens with your income support.
Contact us
Everyone's situation is different. We're here to help if you need it.
Although we may refer you to our International Services team for some questions, please contact us if you:
- would like assistance
- aren't sure if you can get assistance
- are struggling to support yourself or your family
- would like more information.