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You may have accumulated superannuation if you have worked in Australia on a temporary visa. When leaving the country, you might be eligible for a Departing Australia Superannuation Payment (DASP). Here’s everything you need to know about the process, including how to use the online application system.
Eligibility for DASP
To apply for a DASP, you must meet the following requirements:
Superannuation Accumulation: You must have accumulated superannuation under a temporary resident visa (excluding subclasses 405 and 410).
Visa Status: Your visa must have ceased (either due to expiration or cancellation).
Departure from Australia: You must have left Australia and not hold an active visa.
Citizenship: You must not be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or a permanent resident.
Locating Your Superannuation
If you worked for multiple employers, you may have several superannuation accounts. To locate them, you can:
Use the DASP online application system.
Access the ATO (Australian Taxation Office) online services.
Call the ATO directly.
What to Do if the System Cannot Find Your Super?
If you know, you have superannuation, but the DASP system doesn’t find it, you can select "Add Application" on the relevant page and start an application using the Australian Business Number (ABN) of the fund that holds your super
Important: Claiming Deadline
If you do not claim your DASP from your fund within six months of leaving Australia and your visa ceasing, your fund may be required to transfer the money to the ATO, which will hold your super until you claim it.
Step for Claiming Superannuation
Online Applications (Estimated completion time: 30 minutes)
Create a "shared secret": When using the system for the first time, you will need to create a "shared secret" by selecting and answering a question that only you know. Remember, you must answer it correctly each time you log in.
Required Information: When applying online, you will need to provide:
Name, date of birth, and other personal details.
Email address.
Passport country and number.
Superannuation fund account details, including the ABN.
TFN (Tax File Number): While providing your TFN is not mandatory, it makes it easier to locate your super accounts.
Correct Incorrect Visa Information: If the system indicates you have incorrect visa information, do not apply. Contact GCN.admin@homeaffairs.gov.au to correct the information. To apply, visit this link: DASP Application
If You Haven't Left Australia or Your Visa is Active
If, when applying for a DASP, the Department of Home Affairs indicates you haven’t left Australia or your visa is still active, you can register your details in the system and save your application(s). Once you have left Australia, you can return to the system to update and submit your application(s). If you have left Australia but your visa is still active, you can request the Department of Home Affairs to cancel your visa.
Submitting Your Application
Before submitting your application for claiming your superannuation, carefully check all details, as they cannot be changed once submitted. After submitting, you will receive an email confirming the information provided. Your superannuation fund and/or the ATO will also be notified so that your application can be processed.
Processing Your Application
Your superannuation fund and/or the ATO will access the system to process your application. Sometimes, they may need to contact you to verify information or request more data. Generally, you will receive payment within 28 days after your fund or the ATO receives the necessary information.
If your application is for superannuation held by the ATO, payment will be made directly to an Australian financial institution account with valid account details held by the ATO. If your superannuation benefits have been transferred to another fund or the ATO, or if your fund rejects your application, you will be notified by email.
Checking Application Progress
You should contact your superannuation fund directly to check the progress of your DASP application and the ATO for any requests regarding funds they hold. Although you can log back into the system and view your submitted applications, there’s no indication of whether your application has been processed.
Payment Options
Your DASP will typically be processed within 28 days. Payment options include:
Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) to an Australian bank account. It’s recommended that you do not close your account in Australia until you receive your super.
Cheque in Australian dollars.
International Money Transfer (IMT), only for applications to superannuation funds.
Final Tips for Claiming Superannuation
To avoid complications, it’s advisable to start your application before leaving Australia. If you wish to authorise someone else to manage your application, ensure they have written authorisation.
Contact and Support
If you need assistance with the DASP online application system, you can:
Phone:
Within Australia: 13 10 20 (8:00 am to 6:00 pm, Monday to Friday).
Outside Australia: +61 2 6216 1111 (8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Australian Eastern Standard Time).
Mail:
Write to: Australian Taxation Office PO Box 3100 Penrith NSW 2740 Australia
Remember, you must have left Australia and not have an active visa to submit your application.
We hope this guide is helpful and assists you in smoothly reclaiming your superannuation funds! Check the online resources or contact your superannuation fund directly for more information.
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