Banking & Money

Superannuation: How to Claim When Leaving Australia

Your super fund explained — what it is, how it works, and how to claim your super when you leave permanently.

Published 2026-02-01 · Updated 2026-02-14 · 7 min read

If you've worked in Australia, you have superannuation savings. Here's how to get your money back when you leave.

What Is Superannuation?

Super is retirement savings that your employer pays into a fund for you. It's mandatory — your employer must pay at least 11.5% (2025-26) of your ordinary earnings into your super account.

How Much Do I Have?

Check Your Super Balance

  1. Log into myGov and link ATO
  2. Go to the ATO portal then Super tab
  3. You'll see all your super accounts and balances

Common Issue: Multiple Accounts

If you've had multiple jobs, you might have multiple super accounts. Consider consolidating them into one to avoid paying multiple fees.

Departing Australia Superannuation Payment (DASP)

Who Can Claim?

You can claim your super if:

  • You're leaving Australia permanently
  • Your visa has expired or been cancelled
  • You were a temporary resident (student visa, working holiday, etc.)
  • You're not an Australian or NZ citizen or permanent resident

How Much Will You Get?

Important: A tax rate of 65% applies to DASP for working holiday visa holders, and 35-45% for student visa holders on the taxable component.

How to Apply

  1. Leave Australia — your visa must be expired/cancelled
  2. Wait 6 months after departure (recommended for smoother processing)
  3. Visit ato.gov.au and search "DASP"
  4. Complete the online application
  5. Provide identity documents:
    • Passport copy
    • Visa evidence
    • Super fund details
    • Australian bank account (or overseas account)

Processing Time

  • Usually 28 days to process
  • Payment via electronic transfer
  • May take longer if verification needed

Tips to Maximize Your Super

While Working

  • Choose a low-fee super fund
  • Consolidate multiple accounts
  • Check your employer is actually paying super (they must by law)

Before Leaving

  • Note down your super fund details
  • Keep all payslips
  • Ensure your address is updated
  • Keep your TFN accessible

Common Mistakes

  • Forgetting to claim (your super stays in Australia forever otherwise)
  • Not consolidating accounts (losing money to fees)
  • Applying before your visa expires (will be rejected)

Bottom line: Your super is YOUR money. Don't leave Australia without claiming it. Even a few months of work can add up to hundreds or thousands of dollars.