Settlee Agent Support Services

Pre-Arrival Account Opening Innovation:

• Complete online account opening before arriving in Australia
• Living expenses transferable in advance for immediate use
• Priority processing through Commonwealth Bank partnership
• Simplified complex documentation procedures
• Perfect guidance in customer's native language

Standard Opening vs Settlee Support:

• Standard: 2-3 weeks after arrival → Settlee: Completed before arrival
• Standard: Self-complete English forms → Settlee: Application support
• Standard: Multiple visits required → Settlee: Online completion
• Standard: Cannot use immediately → Settlee: Immediate use upon arrival

Understanding Australian Banking System

Account Types:

• Transaction Account (daily transactions)
• Savings Account (savings purposes)
• Term Deposit (fixed deposits)

Essential Account Features:

• Debit card (Visa/Mastercard)
• Online banking
• Mobile app
• PayID (easy transfers)
• BPAY (bill payments)

Pre-Arrival Online Opening Process

Step 1: Eligibility Check

• Valid visa approval
• Planning to arrive in Australia

Step 2: Online Application

• Access bank website
• Enter personal information
• Provide visa details
• Expected arrival date in Australia

Step 3: Document Submission

• Passport scan
• Visa grant letter
• Australian address (temporary acceptable)
• Confirmation of Enrolment (COE)

Step 4: Account Activation

• Visit branch within specified period after arrival
• Identity verification
• Card collection
• Internet banking activation

Identity Verification Requirements

Required Documents:

• Passport (mandatory)
• Student visa
• Letter of offer
• Australian residential address

Initial Deposit and Transfers

Living Expenses Pre-Transfer:

• Deposit available immediately after account opening
• International transfer reception
• Balance secured before arrival
• Immediately usable

Transfer Information:

• BSB number (branch code)
• Account Number
• SWIFT Code
• Bank address

Commonwealth Bank Features

Student Benefits:

• Account maintenance fees waived during study period
• Largest ATM network
• Excellent mobile app
• Multiple on-campus branches

Digital Services:

• CommBank app
• NetBank online banking
• Real-time transaction alerts
• Budget management tools

Fees and Charges

Monthly Account Fees:

• Standard accounts: Monthly fees apply
• Student status: Waived

Transaction Fees:

• Commonwealth Bank ATMs: Free
• Other bank ATMs: Fees apply
• International transactions: Currency conversion fees
• International transfers: Per transaction fee

Cards and Payment Systems

Debit Card:

• Visa/Mastercard functionality
• Tap & Pay (contactless payment)
• Online shopping enabled
• ATM cash withdrawals

Digital Payments:

• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
• PayID (transfer via mobile number)

Online/Mobile Banking

Basic Functions:

• Balance inquiry
• Transaction history
• Transfers and payments
• Bill payments

Additional Features:

• Spending analysis
• Savings goals
• Card lock/unlock

Tax File Number (TFN)

TFN Necessity:

• Bank interest tax withholding
• Essential for part-time work
• Online application available
• Processing time approximately 28 days

Common Issues

Account Opening Delays:

• Missing documents
• Visa verification delays
• Address proof insufficient

Activation Problems:

• Missing branch visit within deadline
• Document mismatch
• Identity verification failure

Emergency Response

Lost/Stolen Card:

• Immediate card freeze via app
• Contact bank hotline
• Replacement application

Fraudulent Transactions:

• Dispute transaction
• Investigation request
• Refund process

Settlee Support Services

Pre-Preparation:

• Required documentation checklist
• Online application process guidance
• Account opening confirmation

Post-Arrival Guidance:

• Branch location and operating hours
• Activation process explanation
• Basic banking usage guidance

Checklist

Before Arrival:

• Online account opening
• Account number receipt
• Living expenses transfer
• Branch visit schedule confirmation

After Arrival:

• Branch visit and identity verification
• Card collection
• PIN setup
• Mobile app installation
• TFN application

Opening an Australian bank account is essential but complex for international students. Settlee enables pre-arrival account opening through our Commonwealth Bank partnership, allowing you to transfer living expenses in advance for immediate use upon arrival. We complete what typically takes 2-3 weeks after arrival before you even land, ensuring a smooth start to your Australian life.