Open an Australian bank account
Opening a NAB bank account as an international student is easy. Just follow these steps.
1. Check you’re eligible
You can open a NAB account if you:
3. Bring your ID
To help us verify your identity, please bring the following documents:
Working while studying in Australia
Lots of students work part time while they study. How many hours you can work depends on your visa, so check the conditions. This may not include volunteer work, or work you do as part of your university course, like an internship.
Your visa conditions will also let you know how long you can stay in Australia. If you want to study and work in Australia, learn more about Australian student visas, opens in new window.
Apply for a tax file number
A tax file number (TFN) is a unique reference number given to you by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). You’ll be asked for it when you start a job in Australia. If you don’t have a TFN, you might have to pay more tax. You can apply for a TFN through the ATO website, opens in new window.
Superannuation
If you earn a minimum amount each month your employer must pay superannuation, opens in new window. This means they pay a percentage of your salary into a superannuation account, and the super fund invests the money. It will accumulate in your super during your working life. You can usually access the money once you retire, or you can claim it back once you leave Australia, opens in new window.
Your working rights
As an overseas student, you’re entitled to the same working rights as Australians, including:
- a minimum wage
- breaks and rest periods
- a healthy and safe working environment
- the opportunity to challenge being unfairly dismissed from a job.
Learn more about your working rights in Australia, opens in new window.
More money tips
Some extra tips to help you settle into your new life at university.
Sharing finances
While living in Australia, you might share a house or apartment with housemates. Make sure you talk about money and how you’ll share costs like rent, bills and groceries. Learn more about how to budget.
Student discounts and concessions
As a student you might be eligible for discounted public transport, food and entertainment. Speak to your university to find out which discounts might apply to you.
Track your expenses
Once you’ve opened a bank account, you can use our Spending tool to track your money, so you can find ways to budget and save.
Get help with your banking
Learn more about how Australian bank accounts work, and how to send and receive money from overseas.
Products you might be interested in
Bank with NAB while you study in Australia.
NAB Classic Banking account
However you bank, you’ll pay no monthly account fee, ever. Spend more on what’s important to you.
Savings accounts
Whatever you're saving for, our savings accounts can help get you there sooner.
NAB Visa Debit cards
Access your own money wherever you are, however you bank.
Get in touch
Customer Support Tool
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Explore our personal banking contact information and get support with a wide range of products, services and topics.
Visit a NAB branch
Visit us in person at your nearest NAB branch or business banking centre.
Important information
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