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Kiwisaver withdrawal rules: A complete guide
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Your KiwiSaver is typically locked until retirement at 65, but early withdrawals are possible. The most common is for a first home purchase, requiring three years of membership. A "Second Chance" withdrawal for subsequent homes is also possible in limited cases via Kāinga Ora.
Other exceptions include moving overseas permanently, significant financial hardship, and serious illness. At retirement, you can withdraw your funds in full, partially, or as regular payments to suit your needs.
When can I withdraw my Kiwisaver?
Kiwisaver first home withdrawal rules
Withdrawing Kiwisaver when you’ve reached retirement age
Full withdrawal
Partial withdrawal
Regular withdrawals
It's usually best to leave your Kiwisaver where it is for as long as possible (but that's not always possible).
Withdrawing your Kiwisaver to buy your second or subsequent home
Withdrawing your Kiwisaver if you’re moving to a new country
If you’re moving to Australia
If you’re moving to any other country that’s not Australia
If you’ve retired under Australian law
Going overseas for good is one reason you may be able to withdraw your Kiwisaver balance.
Extenuating circumstances Kiwisaver withdrawal
Understand the impact of Kiwisaver withdrawal
For example, let’s say you’ve been putting $250 aside per month and have a $50,000 balance in your Kiwisaver.
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