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Moving to New Zealand

Starting a new life in New Zealand? Whether you are relocating to study or work, ASB has a team of international experts dedicated to helping make your move easy.

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Get started on opening your New Zealand bank account. Select an option below.

I want to:

You can fast-track your application with the ASB ID verification app if you're applying from Australia, United Kingdom and Countries of the European Union.

This streamlined process lets you instantly access a variety of convenient services for eligible customers, including the ability to:

  • Send funds from overseas to your new ASB account before arrival.

If you're applying from another country, you will be required to have your Passport certified through a Trusted Referee. Apply online now to determine eligibility.

If you've arrived or will be arriving shortly, talk to our friendly team at any ASB branch or apply online.

Apply online

Great reasons to choose us

  • Set up bank accounts before moving to NZ: ASB offers a fully verified bank account application process for eligible customers prior to their arrival in NZ.

  • Manage your money anytime: With FastNet Classic internet banking and the ASB Mobile Banking App, you can access and manage your money 24/7. Change currencies, transfer payments, and open new accounts as you require.

  • Get assistance wherever you go: As one of New Zealand's biggest banks and a member of the Commonwealth Banking Group, we have Advice Centres across the country.

  • Zero fees: Enjoy no monthly base or transaction fees with our personal and business everyday accounts, and $0 card fees on ASB Visa Debit Card.

How to open a bank account in New Zealand from overseas

Apply to open an account

Apply online to set up a bank account before you arrive in New Zealand.

Activate your account

An ASB Specialist will be in touch within 2 business days to request documents for identity verification and to help you set up your account.

Done, you can now move money across!

Once identity verification is complete, you'll be set up with an everyday Streamline bank account. You will be able to deposit money into it, by making an international payment. You can also apply for a digital Visa Debit card to use immediately upon arrival.

What you need to know before opening an account in New Zealand

  • If you aren't a New Zealand citizen, you'll need your foreign passport as proof of identity as well as an eligible visa. You'll also need proof of your residential address overseas, such as a bank statement or utility bill with your name and address. The proof must be dated within the last twelve months.

  • Carrying cash is less common in New Zealand. The majority of retailers in the country offer EFTPOS, so most people pay for day-to-day transactions by card. All banks offer internet and mobile banking, which is commonly used for transactions like wages or rent. A bank account is required to make cashless transactions in New Zealand.

  • Once you have a fully verified bank account, you can deposit funds into your ASB account, and access it as soon as you arrive.

  • If you want to hold onto your money in its current currency, open an ASB Foreign Currency Account. With this type of account, you can keep your original currency until you're ready to convert it to NZD.

  • You don't need to be a NZ citizen to open a bank account as long as you have a valid long term visa, such as a study or work visa. With ASB, you can apply for a bank account even before moving to New Zealand, depending on your country of residence.

Options to consider

How can we help you?

Studying in New Zealand

If you are studying or completing an apprenticeship in New Zealand, you can open a Streamline account once you arrive. All you need to do is visit an ASB branch when you arrive.

 

 

Starting your business

Is your ambition to be your own boss? We have the business expertise and products to get you off to a great start.

 

Banking in New Zealand

Here's a quick summary of how banking works in New Zealand. You can find information on our currency, payment methods, banking terms and more.

Need help?

Email us

We'll help you with your bank account application enquiry before you arrive.

Email us

Visit a branch

When you're here, come and see us at one of our many branches across New Zealand.

Find a branch

ASB Bank Limited's lending criteria and terms apply. Fees may change. Refer to asb.co.nz for other fees and charges. The availability of insurance cover is subject to your application being approved. Exclusions apply. For full details, refer to the Policy Document which is available from ASB Bank Limited. This insurance is underwritten by IAG.

ASBMoving to New Zealand? How to set up a new bank account | ASB