Banking

[newtoOZ]

There have been a couple of different posts about bringing money over, how to transfer money cheaply, and what to bring.

I came over, opened an account and wired money.

I was just told that I could have opened an account before I arrived, transferred money, and had it waiting for me. I could have had a bank card delivered to me before I left home. Even long term-tourists can do this so that they cut down on fees when using foreign bank cards.

There still would have been conversion fees, but that sounds a lot easier to me. Apparently you can do this all on line. HSBC has been recommended for low fees, no monthly fees on accounts, and a general international sensitivity.

Now, I haven't checked this out, because I'm already here and it's a bit too late, but I thought some of the people who are planning to immigrate might want to look into it. It might be especially easy if you use an international bank with a branch in your home country.

[vargak]

thank you that sounds really helpful.
would you by chance be able to direct me some webpages where I could get this going..

or shall I ask my UK bank for their support in this?
Thanks a lot

[Baby75]

Originally Posted by newtoOZ

There have been a couple of different posts about bringing money over, how to transfer money cheaply, and what to bring.

I came over, opened an account and wired money.

I was just told that I could have opened an account before I arrived, transferred money, and had it waiting for me. I could have had a bank card delivered to me before I left home. Even long term-tourists can do this so that they cut down on fees when using foreign bank cards.

There still would have been conversion fees, but that sounds a lot easier to me. Apparently you can do this all on line. HSBC has been recommended for low fees, no monthly fees on accounts, and a general international sensitivity.

Now, I haven't checked this out, because I'm already here and it's a bit too late, but I thought some of the people who are planning to immigrate might want to look into it. It might be especially easy if you use an international bank with a branch in your home country.

yes your right we were at an Australian expo and westpac hope i have that right were there they gave us some info on it so ill be diffidently doing that before we go

[newlife33]

I would just make sure you go through a reputable company when dealing with foreign companies online. You do not want to get scammed by one of these fly-by-night online "banks".

[cmallon]

Westpac allow you to open an account online before you get there so that you can have your money sent over. You just need to go into the bank once you are there to complete the identity checks. I found thid info on a good website which has lots of info for people emigrating - www dot livingin dot com