Steps to Open a Bank Account for Workers in Australia

Opening a bank account is one of the first tasks for new workers in Australia. With the right documents and a clear process, you can set up your account quickly—often before you even land. This guide outlines the steps, required identification, and key tips to help you choose the right bank and get paid on time by your employer.

Quick steps at a glance #

1. Choose a bank and account type (everyday/transaction account).
2. Apply online (pre-arrival) or in branch after you arrive.
3. Prepare ID: passport, visa, proof of Australian address, and contact details.
4. Verify identity (100 points or bank equivalent) within the required timeframe.
5. Receive account details (BSB and account number) and set up online banking.
6. Provide your employer with your account details and Tax File Number (TFN).
7. Activate your debit card and set up mobile payments.

Choose the right bank and account #

Australia’s major banks all offer “new to Australia” or “migrant” accounts tailored to workers. Compare fees, international transfers, ATM access, and mobile app quality:

• Commonwealth Bank: Migrant and moving to Australia options
• Westpac: Migrant banking
• ANZ: New to Australia accounts

Most workers start with an everyday transaction account for salary deposits and daily spending. You can add a high-interest savings account after you settle in.

Documents you’ll typically need #

Banks must verify your identity under Australian regulations. Requirements are similar to a “100 points” ID check. Have these ready:

• Passport (valid, with photo and signature)
• Australian visa details (grant letter or VEVO record)
• Australian residential address (temporary is acceptable; can be updated later)
• Local mobile number and email
• Secondary ID if available (international driver’s licence, birth certificate)
• Tax File Number (TFN) – optional but recommended to avoid higher withholding tax on interest: ATO: Tax File Number

Note: If you apply before arrival, most banks let you open the account and deposit funds, but you must complete in-person ID when you arrive in Australia (usually within 90 days) to fully activate all features.

How to apply: before or after arrival #

Before you arrive: Many banks allow online applications up to 12 months in advance. You’ll receive your BSB and account number by email, which you can use for employer payroll setup after you arrive. Complete your in-branch ID check when you land.

After you arrive: Visit a branch with your passport and visa details. The process typically takes 20–30 minutes. You’ll walk out with your account created and a debit card on the way (or issued instantly at some branches).

Verification and timelines #

• Account creation: Same day (online or in branch).
• Identity verification: Instantly in branch; online pre-arrival requires in-person verification post-arrival.
• Debit card delivery: 3–10 business days by post; some banks issue digital cards immediately in the app.
• Online banking access: Usually same day once ID is completed.

Setting up your account for work #

1. Get your BSB and account number: Provided on approval; share with your employer.
2. Add your TFN: Log into online banking and add it to avoid higher tax on interest. Learn more at the ATO: TFN guidance.
3. Activate your card and digital wallet: Set your PIN and add to Apple Pay/Google Pay if available.
4. Set alerts and safety controls: Enable transaction notifications, daily limits, and card freeze features.

Fees and what to watch #

• Monthly account fees: Some banks waive these for students or new migrants for a period—check eligibility.
• International transfer costs: Compare bank rates and fees; consider FX margins.
• ATM access: Use your bank’s ATM network to avoid withdrawal fees.
• Inactive account or paper statement fees: Opt for e-statements to reduce costs.

For a plain-English overview of Australian bank accounts and typical fees, see Moneysmart’s guide.

Frequently asked questions #

Can I open an account on a temporary visa? Yes. Most worker visa holders (e.g., Temporary Skill Shortage, Working Holiday, Student with work rights) can open bank accounts. Bring your passport and visa details.

Do I need a TFN to open the account? No, but providing a TFN prevents higher withholding tax on interest. You can apply for a TFN after you arrive and add it later: ATO TFN.

Can I open an account before I arrive? In most cases, yes. You can open online and then verify in person within a set timeframe after arrival.

What if I don’t have a permanent address yet? Use a temporary Australian address (hotel, friend, employer accommodation) and update it later.

How Skills Campus can help #

As part of your move and employment setup, Skills Campus can guide you on choosing bank accounts that suit your work status, explain ID requirements, and help coordinate pre-arrival applications so your payroll is ready from day one.

Next steps #

1. Decide between major banks and compare newcomer offers.
2. Apply online (pre-arrival) or visit a branch with your passport and visa.
3. Complete ID, activate your card, add your TFN, and share details with your employer.

Start your Australian journey with confidence. For tailored support on banking, jobs, study, and Recognition of Prior Learning, speak with Skills Campus today. Contact us: https://skillscampus.com.au/contact.