Super for International Students: How to Claim It When You Leave Australia ?

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Here's a surprise that catches a lot of international students on their way out: while you were working part-time at the cafe, your employer was quietly putting money into a retirement account in your name. It's called superannuation, or “super,” and if you worked in Australia on a student visa, you might have a few hundred or a few thousand dollars sitting in a fund right now.

The good news is that you can claim it when you leave. The less good news is that tax is taken out, and the process has a few rules that trip people up. This guide explains how it works, who can claim, how much you might get and how to apply without paying anyone to do it for you.

This is general information, not tax or legal advice. Rules and rates change, so check the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) before you apply.

What is super, and why do you have it?

Superannuation is Australia's compulsory retirement savings system. Most employees are entitled to have their employer pay super on top of their wages. The rate has been 12% since 1 July 2025, and from 1 July 2026 employers are moving to a “payday super” system, where super is paid at the same time as wages. Check the ATO for the current rules.

This applies to many international students who work in Australia, not just citizens. It's part of the pay you're entitled to, so check your payslips to see whether it's being paid. Our guide to the minimum wage in Australia explains how to check your pay.

What is the DASP?

The Departing Australia Superannuation Payment (DASP) is the way temporary visa holders can claim their super after they leave Australia. It's the main way to access your super if you won't be staying, because super is normally locked away until retirement age.

Who can claim?

Generally, you can claim a DASP if all of the following apply:

• You worked in Australia on a temporary visa and built up super.

• You've left Australia.

• Your temporary visa has expired or been cancelled, and you no longer hold a valid Australian visa.

• You're not an Australian or New Zealand citizen, or a permanent resident.

Some visa subclasses are excluded, so check the ATO's list if yours is unusual. International students on a Student visa (subclass 500) are generally eligible.

You can't apply while you're still in Australia or while your visa is still active. The ATO will reject an early application, so wait until you've left and the visa has ended.

If you later become a permanent resident or citizen, you generally can't claim a DASP, and your super stays in your fund until you reach retirement age.

How much tax is taken out?

The tax withheld depends on your visa type and the type of super.

For most students, the super comes from employer payments, so it's mostly a taxed element, and the rate is usually 35%. The 65% rate applies to working holiday makers, not to student visa holders.

A simple example: if your balance is $10,000 and it's all taxed element, 35% tax would be $3,500, leaving about $6,500, before any fees your fund charges. Your own numbers will depend on your fund, fees and how much you earned.

The tax is final. Reports say you don't include the payment in your Australian tax return, but check the ATO's guidance for your situation.

How to claim, step by step

1. Leave Australia and wait until your visa has expired or been cancelled.

2. Gather your details. You'll typically need your passport, visa details (including your visa grant number), your Tax File Number (TFN), your super fund name and member number, and your bank account details.

3. Find your super. If you don't know which fund holds your money, use the ATO's online services (through myGov) to check your super, including any held by the ATO.

4. Apply online. The ATO has a free online DASP application system. You can also apply through your super fund directly, using the paper or online form it provides. Registered tax agents can lodge on your behalf.

5. Wait for processing. The ATO or your fund checks your eligibility. Some guides suggest most claims are paid within about 28 days, but times vary.

6. Receive your payment and summary. The fund withholds the tax, deducts any fees and pays the rest to your nominated bank account. You'll get a payment summary.

Tip: Make sure your bank details are correct, and that your account can receive an international transfer if you're overseas.

What if you don't claim?

If you leave and don't claim your super, your fund may transfer it to the ATO after six months. You can still claim it from the ATO later, but the same tax applies, and for some visa holders the rules and rates can change over time. It's usually best to claim promptly once you're eligible.

Do you need a tax agent or “super refund” service?

No, not necessarily. You can apply for free through the ATO. Some companies advertise services to claim your super for a fee. They can be useful if you want help, but make sure you understand their charges, and don't hand over your passport or banking details to anyone you haven't checked. Our guide to job scams has tips on spotting suspicious offers.

Common mistakes

• Applying too early. You have to leave Australia and have your visa end first.

• Not knowing which fund holds your super. Check your payslips or use the ATO's tools.

• Wrong or missing details. Incorrect visa or bank details can delay your payout.

• Using an old email or phone number. Your fund may need to contact you.

• Assuming you'll get it all. Tax and fees come out.

• Waiting years. Delays can create complications, so claim soon after leaving.

• Becoming a resident and expecting a payout. If you gain permanent residency or citizenship, the DASP generally isn't available.

• Paying more than you need to. The ATO's application is free.

Before you leave Australia

• Check your payslips for super payments, and ask your employer if anything's missing.

• Find your fund and member number, and save your login details.

• Consolidate if appropriate. If you've had multiple jobs, you might have more than one account. Use the ATO's online services to check.

• Make sure your fund has an up-to-date email address. You'll need it to receive information.

• Keep your visa documents, including the grant number, and your passport details.

• Open or keep a bank account that can receive international payments, or have your overseas details ready.

• Check your own country's tax rules. Some countries may let you claim a credit for the Australian tax withheld, while others may treat the payment as income. Ask a tax adviser in your home country.

Quick answers

Can international students claim super in Australia?

Yes, usually through the DASP, after leaving Australia and once your visa has ended.

How much tax is taken from my super?

For most student visa holders, 35% on the taxed element. Working holiday makers face 65%.

Can I claim while I'm still in Australia?

No. You generally need to have departed Australia and have your temporary visa expire or be cancelled.

Do I have to pay for the application?

No. The ATO's online system is free.

How long does it take?

Processing times vary, and some guides report around 28 days.

What if I forgot to claim?

You can generally still claim from the ATO later, but the tax applies, and delays can cause problems.

What if I become a permanent resident?

You generally can't claim a DASP, and your super stays in your fund until you reach retirement age.