The question says it all. But to clarify, I mean would it be sensible to keep investing for another year till the time I move out of the country? Does the account stay active even after I leave, for me to cash out during my retirement?
You should absolutely contribute to max out your company match. Whether you contribute more and/or keep the account after you leave is a separate matter.
The question is not about whether you'll move to another country, but whether you'll NEED the money before you reach 60 years age. If yes (i.e. you'll need to withdraw before reaching 60), I would only contribute to get the matching dollar and nothing more.
Makes sense
Letting money grow tax free is a tremendous benefit - you'll pay $10 - 20 per year in fees after you leave, but let it sit until you're 60 and start taking distributions wired to your local bank. Not even counting match, if you put it in low cost index funds for 30 years and let it grow, you'll 10x the original amount you would have gotten after tax (assuming 30% effective tax rate and historical returns of 7%).
I agree 401k is an opportunity not to be missed out on. I was concerned about access to those funds when I move out of the country.
Yes