Open a bank account as a new arrival
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The 42-day rule
Visit a branch within 42 days and your passport counts as the full 100 points. After 42 days:
| Document | Points |
|---|---|
| Passport after 42 days | 70 |
| Visa confirmation (if not in passport) | 25 |
| Lease, utility bill, TFN letter or employment letter | 25 each |
Other tips
Get an Australian SIM for verification codes.
Can I open an account before I arrive?
Some banks allow it, with conditions . CommBank accepts applications from people arriving within 14 days or who arrived in the past 12 months, aged 14 or over; you must verify your original passport at an Australian branch within 20 days or the account may close. NAB accepts people arriving within 30 days or in the last 12 months who plan to stay at least six months and do not hold a tourist or visitor visa; you must visit a branch within 30 days and the account opens only after that visit. Visitor visas 600, 601 and 651 are excluded at CommBank. Check each bank's current terms.
Do banks accept every visa?
Most banks will not open a standard transaction account for tourist or visitor visa holders. You generally need a visa allowing a stay of at least six months with work or study rights. It also confirms the 100-point ID check, a passport alone being enough in your first 6 weeks, and that you can open an account without a TFN but the bank must withhold tax on interest at the highest rate. Confirm with your bank.
FAQ
Beware of scams
See visa scams.