DASP Refund Australia: Step-by-Step Guide for Temporary Residents

If you're a temporary resident leaving Australia permanently, you may be eligible to claim your superannuation as a Departing Australia Superannuation Payment (DASP). This guide walks you through the entire process.

What is DASP?

DASP allows eligible temporary residents to access their Australian superannuation when they leave Australia permanently. It's designed for people who won't be returning to Australia and therefore won't benefit from keeping their super until retirement age.

Who is Eligible for DASP?

You can apply for DASP if you:

• Hold or held a temporary visa (not Australian citizen or permanent resident)
• Have departed Australia
• Your visa has expired or been cancelled
• Have superannuation in an Australian fund

Eligible Visa Types Include:

• Subclass 417 (Working Holiday)
• Subclass 462 (Work and Holiday)
• Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage)
• Subclass 500 (Student)
• Many other temporary visa types

Step-by-Step DASP Application Process

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before starting your application, collect:

• Passport (showing departure from Australia)
• Visa grant notice or evidence of visa status
• Tax File Number (TFN)
• Bank account details for payment
• Super fund details and member numbers

Step 2: Find Your Super

If you're unsure which super funds hold your money:

• Use the ATO's online services
• Contact the Australian Taxation Office
• Check with previous employers

Step 3: Apply Through Your Super Fund

Option A: Apply directly to your super fund

• Contact your fund's member services
• Complete their DASP application form
• Provide required documentation

Option B: Apply through the ATO

• Use the ATO's online DASP application
• Available for unclaimed super or when funds don't process DASP

Step 4: Wait for Processing

• Processing times vary by fund (typically 28-90 days)
• You may be contacted for additional information
• Payment will be made to your nominated bank account

DASP Tax Rates

DASP payments are subject to tax, which varies by visa type and tax residency status:

Tax Rates by Visa Type:

• Working Holiday visas (417/462): 65% tax rate for non-residents
• Other temporary visas: 35% tax rate for non-residents
• Tax residents: Lower rates may apply

Example Calculation:

If you have $10,000 in super on a 417 visa as a non-resident:

• Gross amount: $10,000
• Tax (65%): $6,500
• Net payment: $3,500

Use our DASP Calculator to estimate your refund

Important Considerations

Timing Matters

• Apply within 6 months of visa expiry for fastest processing
• Delayed applications may face additional verification requirements

Tax Residency Status

Your tax residency status significantly affects the tax rate:

• Australian tax resident: Lower tax rates
• Non-resident: Higher tax rates
• Residency is determined by various factors including time spent in Australia

Multiple Super Accounts

If you have multiple super accounts:

• You can apply for DASP from each fund separately
• Consider consolidating accounts before applying to simplify the process

Common Issues and Solutions

Application Rejected?

Common reasons include:

• Still holding a valid visa
• Haven't departed Australia
• Missing documentation
• Incorrect bank details

Payment Delayed?

Contact your super fund if:

• It's been over 90 days since application
• Your circumstances have changed
• You need to update your details

Tax Queries?

For tax-related questions:

• Contact the Australian Taxation Office
• Consider seeking professional tax advice
• Keep records of all DASP payments for tax purposes

After Receiving Your DASP

Tax Obligations

• DASP payments may affect your Australian tax obligations
• You may need to lodge a tax return
• Consider professional tax advice for complex situations

Future Australian Work

If you return to Australia on another temporary visa:

• You'll start building super again from zero
• Previous DASP payments don't affect future super entitlements

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does DASP take to process?

Most applications are processed within 28-90 days, but complex cases may take longer.

Can I apply for DASP while still in Australia?

No, you must have departed Australia permanently and your visa must have expired or been cancelled.

What if I can't find my super?

Use the ATO's online services or contact them directly. They can help locate unclaimed super.

Is there a time limit for DASP applications?

While there's no strict time limit, it's best to apply within 6 months of visa expiry for smoother processing.

Can I get DASP if I'm now an Australian citizen?

No, DASP is only available to temporary residents who have departed Australia.

Get Professional Help

Consider seeking professional assistance if:

• You have complex visa or tax situations
• Multiple super accounts across different funds
• Significant super balances
• Uncertainty about tax residency status

Ready to Apply?

Before starting your DASP application:

1. Use our DASP Calculator to estimate your refund
2. Gather all required documents
3. Contact your super fund or the ATO to begin the process

Remember, DASP is a one-time payment. Once you receive it, you cannot access those super funds again, even if you return to Australia on a future visa.