CONFIRM YOUR DATES
Calculate the day you landed in the UK and make sure 12 months have passed if you want a cash withdrawal.
If it is less than a year and you need the money sooner, plan on a transfer to a UK pension instead.
DOWNLOAD THE PROVIDER’S “PERMANENT EMIGRATION” FORM
Every scheme uses its own PDF (look for headings like Permanent Emigration Withdrawal).
Google your Kiwisaver provider and “Permanent Emigration Withdrawal Form”
COMPLETE A STATUTORY DECLARATION
- In the UK you can swear a declaration before a New Zealand–qualified solicitor if you find one, any UK solicitor authorised to take oaths, or a notary public.
- Use the wording supplied in the form.
COLLECT PROOF OF DEPARTURE
Print your e-ticket, boarding pass or entry stamp for Heathrow/Gatwick. If you renewed your passport after arriving, include both passports.
COLLECT PROOF OF OVERSEAS RESIDENCE
Provide at least one document dated within the first 12 months – e.g. UK council-tax bill, utility bill, bank statement or tenancy agreement showing your London address.
CERTIFY/NOTARISE COPIES
Your provider will tell you who can certify documents. UK notary publics are accepted by all NZ providers; many also accept certification by a Justice of the Peace if you can locate one.
SEND THE PACK TO THE PROVIDER
Include the form, statutory declaration, certified ID/passport, proof of departure, proof of address, and your UK bank or pension account details. Use tracked international post or a scanned PDF emailed to the provider (check their preference).
WAIT FOR APPROVAL
Most providers quote 10–15 working days once they have a complete pack. They will:
- deduct all Government contributions and any Australian funds,
- pay the balance to the bank account you nominated in NZD (you can then convert) or
- transfer it direct to an HMRC-registered UK pension if you chose the transfer option.
DEAL WITH TAX AND FX
- In NZ the payment is not taxed, but check UK rules – a lump sum from an overseas pension may be taxable in the UK unless you roll it into a UK scheme within the HMRC “recognised transfer” window.
- Compare FX costs: provider pays in NZD, so decide whether to use their bank’s rate, your UK bank’s inward FX rate, or a specialist transfer service.
KEEP A RECORD
File the approval letter and payment advice for UK tax returns and for any future NZ reporting.
Common pitfalls to avoid:
- Wrong timing – applying for a cash withdrawal before the 12-month threshold is the number-one reason applications are rejected.
- Uncertified documents – providers will not accept plain photocopies. Make sure every copy has the certifier’s signature, name, address, capacity and the date.
- Australia: You cannot withdraw your Kiwisaver funds in cash/bank transfer if you are moving to Australia. It will need to go to an Australia Super Fund.
