Find the Best Banks for Expats Moving to Australia

Find the best banks for expats moving to Australia – Banks – Transfers – Cryptocurrency -and much more.

There are several banks that will allow you to open an account with them before your move to Australia.  These banks vary between local and foreign/international. Things to consider depend on your personal situation and banking requirements. Some banks may offer better solutions for those who are investing large sums of money or transferring money to Australia to purchase a house or invest in a business.

Other banks may be better for families or small business owners, and entrepreneurs. And what about Cryptocurrencies? These are becoming ever more popular in Europe, the USA and Asia, but how does Australia operate? Does Australia have a PayPal? The list of questions goes on and on, but in this article, we’ll cover some of the key facts about setting up bank accounts, international transfers and the new world of cryptocurrencies.

Selecting the best banks for expats moving to Australia

First up, the Major Banks in Australia include:

• Commonwealth Bank of Australia
• Westpac
• ANZ
• NAB
• HSBC

Migrant banking online search Tip: Search Google online for “Migrant Banking” or “Migrant Banking Australia” to pull up the best search results for a range of banks offering the best services specifically for people emigrating to Australia or going on Australian working holidays.

Setting up an Australian Bank Account

Once you’ve opened an account (via online application or by visiting the bank in person), you’ll have to allow time for your bank cards to arrive before you can use the ATMs, so be prepared to make your withdrawals at the bank until then.

It’s worth noting that when applying for a bank account online, some banks may accept photocopies of your identification (be it a passport or driving license) but may require that it be certified by a person in a position of responsibility, such as a doctor, teacher or civil servant, etc.

The most common type of bank account for expats in Australia is a transaction account, allowing the account holder to pay bills, set up direct debits, and write checks.

Set up the bank account before you leave the UK

Having a bank account set up and the paperwork complete in good time is essential if you’re seeking out an apartment in Australia, as you’ll need the necessary funds (for your first month’s rent and deposit) in place to land on your feet upon arrival. It also makes it much easier to arrange your finances before you go, but keep an eye on the news and exchange rates. There’s a big difference between transferring holiday money and your life savings.

It’s also important to have everything in order before you move due to all the viewings of potential apartments, etc., so being as prepared as possible will avoid any unnecessary stress on your part.

It’s important to get this in place before you arrive, as the first few weeks in particular of life in Australia can be pretty hectic.

Next, we move on to Financial Transfer.

The thought of transferring money overseas is often painful, but it doesn’t have to be. Other than banks, there are now several ways that you can securely, safely and legally move money overseas. Remember to read the fine print and be wary of using credit cards, as these could incur additional fees.

Whichever bank you choose, you’ll have the option to transfer funds internationally, but this can incur higher fees.

Aside from banks, several expat-focused financial exchange companies will be more than happy to assist. Some that we can recommend include Moneycorp and HALO Financial.

For smaller transfers or regular international transfers, we would recommend using Transferwise.  

Forex Tip: Watch the news for reports on currencies increasing and decreasing. Remember, if you have a seriously low rate, it could even be better to wait a few months, as you could end up losing thousands.

The best banks for expats moving to Australia. Cryptocurrency and PayPal

For someone who has been running their own business, you may be used to using cryptocurrencies or PayPal as a regular form of finance and banking. You’ll be pleased to hear that Australia is one of the world’s leading users of cryptocurrencies, so the way you run your online life won’t be dramatically affected. And here’s another interesting fact: there are also no cryptocurrency-friendly banks, including Fidor Bank, Change and Worldcore.

Using PayPal in Australia also won’t be an issue; much like the UK and USA, your PayPal account will link to most major banks, and you’ll be able to top up and make secure payments online.

Rest easy, however, in the knowledge that there are plenty of moving guides available online for bank accounts for expats in Australia and in print, also, to help get you through the trickiest of situations.

Find out about emigrating to Australia.
Speak to an Australian Migration Agent
Get the latest news on expat financial services
Compare the best shipping companies to Australia

Recent news for working holiday visa holders

The pre-application (ballot) procedure for the New Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa is now underway. During the program year 2024-2025, the government will introduce a new visa pre-application procedure, also known as a ballot. This is good news for partner nations that are experiencing strong demand for employment and vacations.

Only applicants from China, Vietnam, and India who are applying for a subclass 462 visa for the first time will be able to fill out ballots as part of the new pre-application procedure. More information, including dates for the opening of the ballots, is yet to be developed. So, it’s advisable that you keep in touch with these latest developments.

Also read –

Cryptocurrencies in Australia 2025

The Rise of Cryptocurrency Staking

Understanding the Potential of Cryptocurrency

Also visit –

Need Help With Your Australian Visa

Get the Latest Music News & Entertainment

Explore Western Australia with the Go West Handbook