Taxes and Social Security in New Zealand

Social security is financed by taxes and not by compulsory individual premiums. Employees are not required to pay regular premiums to social security. However, many New Zealanders decide to take out an additional health insurance policy. Some New Zealand employers will pay a proportion of the private health insurance of their employees.

The same applies to the pension scheme. Upon reaching the age retirement, a standard fixed amount is paid by the State. Frequently, employees will take out private superannuation policies (to which some employers contribute) in order to supplement their retirement income.

For further information please contact:

Inland Revenue Department
Taxpayer Services
PO Box 2198
Wellington
New Zealand
Telephone: 0064-4-472 1032
Facsimile: 0064-4-473 2815
Internet: www.ird.govt.nz

Health Insurance for Temporary Visitors

As a temporary visitor from Brazil you are not entitled to publicity funded health services.
If you receive medical treatment during your stay, you or your sponsor will be liable to pay the full costs of that treatment.

We strongly recommend that you have medical insurance for the duration of your visit.