Effect of absence overseas on grandparented couples
Couples getting the grandparented non-qualified partner rate who are both absent from New Zealand at the same time, will keep getting their grandparented rate provided the qualifying partner qualifies during the period of absence.
If the qualifying partner no longer qualifies during their absence on or after 9 November 2020 the grandparented non-qualified rate will end and the qualifying partner will not be able to include a non-qualifying partner again.
Overseas absence where both partners are absent
Period of absence | Is Grandparenting retained? |
Absence less than 26 weeks | Yes - the qualified client is entitled for the period of absence. |
Absence is more than 26 weeks but less than 30 weeks due to unavoidable delay returning | No - from the 27th week of absence, the qualified partner no longer qualifies and neither does the non-qualified partner. Grandparenting ends from the 27th week of absence. |
Absence more than 26 weeks - not unavoidably delayed in returning | No - they no longer qualify from the day after the date of departure from New Zealand. Grandparenting ends from the date following departure. |
Note this also applies if the qualified partner is overseas while the non-qualified partner is in New Zealand.
Grandparented non-qualified partner is absent
Grandparenting is not affected when the grandparented non-qualified partner is temporarily absent from New Zealand by themselves, as long as the client in New Zealand still qualifies.
Payments made to the grandparented non-qualified partner during their absence can continue for up to 26 weeks.
For more information see:
- Absences Overseas medical treatment
- Absences Humanitarian work
Legislation
- When grandparenting ends Schedule 1AA, Part 3, clause 7(2)(a)-(d) New Zealand Superannuation Retirement Income Act 2001
