[flighty]

How do you open an Australian bank account while still living in the UK? Will they need credit references, financial references, passports and the like?

[austin]

Hi,

Yes you can open a bank account before you leave, but you will only be able to use it for deposits (not withdrawals) until you arrive in Australia. When you arrive in Australia, you will need to go to the bank and show your passport to unlock your account and get access to the account.

ANZ have good information about what's involved for them:

http://www.anz.com/unitedkingdom/en/personal/moving-australia/choose-bank-account/

"You will need to come to an ANZ branch in Australia to confirm your identity. If you open a joint account, both applicants must confirm their identity in Australia before full account access is granted. We will mail you your new account number as soon as we receive this application form. You will be able to deposit funds immediately, however you will be unable to withdraw your funds until you come to an ANZ branch in Australia to confirm your identity."

[Sam66]

Check out Westpac migrant banking. You are able to validate your account in the UK and so get full access to it if you can get to their London branch with ID.


Do I have to complete a personal identification check for my new Westpac bank account?
Yes you do. Your account will remain in a 'Post Credit Only' (PCO) status i.e. you will be able to deposit into the account, but no withdrawals or transfers will be allowed until you have completed the personal identification. If you do not complete a personal identification check within 90 days of account opening, your account may be closed.

How long do I have from opening my Westpac bank account to completing my personal identification check?
You have 90 days, from the date you applied for your Westpac bank account, to complete your personal identification check, in person, at a Westpac branch.

If you visit a Westpac branch within 6 weeks of arriving in Australia you only need your passport and Australian address for your personal identification check. Any later than 6 weeks and you'll need to provide 2 forms of identification. For information on documents required under Westpac's Customer Identification Standards please contact any branch or refer to our website - www.westpac.com.au/aml


How do I complete my personal identification check for my new Westpac bank account?
You just have to show documents from the list.Alternatively, you may also complete the personal identification check at one of our offshore offices. If you are unable to visit one of our offshore offices please email us.


http://westpac.com.au/internet/publish.nsf/Content/PBITMBFQ+Personal+identification+requirements