Start with your dates
- Visa expiry date (on your visa label or INZ account).
- Your employer's last working day and notice end.
- Tenancy end notice dates and lease break costs.
- Dates for any residence application, partner's visa, or children's schooling.
Staying vs leaving: a fair comparison
| Question | If you try to stay | If you leave |
|---|---|---|
| Time | A Job Change or new visa may take weeks and needs a willing accredited employer. | You can leave quickly, but tenancy and bills take time to wind down. |
| Money | Most temporary visa holders can't claim a benefit. You need savings to bridge the gap. | Flights, shipping, break-lease costs, final bills. |
| Family | Partners and children may be on your visa. Their status can change with yours. | Children's school transfers; partner's job. |
| Future | You may keep a path to residence if you find a qualifying job. | You can often apply again later. Overstay or breaches make this harder. |
Before you go: checklist
- Final pay, holiday pay and any redundancy compensation, in writing.
- A reference letter and a certificate of service.
- Payslips and IRD summary (myIR) for tax records.
- Tell Inland Revenue you're leaving. See the KiwiSaver and student loan guide.
- Tenancy: give correct notice. Ask for your bond back in writing.
- Utilities, phone, internet, insurance, car registration and WoF.
- Close or update bank accounts; arrange international transfers.
- Health records and prescriptions.
- If you have a vehicle, a house or other assets, get advice about selling and tax.
Selling a car or household goods quickly usually means a lower price. Compare Trade Me, community groups and local second-hand dealers; don't accept pressure from 'cash for cars' buyers.
Tax and IRD
Tell IRD when you leave (via myIR) and keep your IRD number. Ask IRD (0800 227 773) whether you need to file a return for the year you leave and whether you're owed a refund. Overseas tax rules depend on your home country and are outside this site. A tax adviser can help if you have complex income.
Free help for this decision
- Licensed immigration adviser (register link in our advice guide).
- Citizens Advice Bureau: 0800 367 222.
- Your embassy or consulate in New Zealand (for travel documents, emergency help).
- MoneyTalks for debt and budgeting: 0800 345 123.
- 1737 (free mental health support, call or text any time).
Sources
- INZ: Immigration New Zealand (opens in a new tab)
- Employment NZ: Final pay (opens in a new tab)
- IRD: KiwiSaver, getting my savings early (opens in a new tab)
General information only. Confirm with the agency for your situation. Spotted something out of date? Email help@unemployed.nz.