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Open a New Zealand bank account from overseas.

Looking to create a new life in New Zealand? Our specialist team may be able to set up your banking needs before you arrive to help make your move as smooth as possible.

How we can help.

  • Open a New Zealand bank account before you move.
  • Have your account ready to use when you get here.
  • Transfer money into your account before you arrive.
  •  Access your account through Westpac One digital banking once it’s activated.

Before you start

Check that this application pathway is right for you and have certified copies of the required documents ready before you begin.

You’ll need certified documents before you apply

Your passport and proof of address must be certified by an approved trusted referee. If these documents are not certified, we cannot process your application.

Check if you can apply online.

You may be able to use this online application if you currently live overseas and:

  • Plan to move to New Zealand within the next 180 days for employment, study or permanent migration; or
  • Are a New Zealand citizen living overseas and would like to open a New Zealand bank account while remaining overseas; or
  • Require a New Zealand bank account to receive ACC payments.

If you’re not a New Zealand citizen, you must hold an eligible visa. A visa is not required for New Zealand citizens.

This application isn’t right for you if you:

  • Are already in New Zealand
  • Hold a visitor visa
  • Hold a working holiday visa without confirmed employment in New Zealand
  • Are visiting, travelling or staying in New Zealand on a short-term basis
  • Don't intend to live in New Zealand long term (unless you are applying to receive ACC payments).

Already in New Zealand?

This application is only for customers who are currently living overseas. If you’re already in New Zealand, visit your nearest Westpac branch to open an account.

Check your visa type before applying

This online process isn’t available for visitor visa holders. Working holiday visa holders can apply if they have a confirmed job in New Zealand.

What you’ll need.

Before you start, you must be living overseas and planning to move to New Zealand within the next 180 days. If you’re already in New Zealand, please visit your nearest Westpac branch to open an account.

Have the following information and documents ready. Certified documents must be prepared before you begin the online application.

  • A certified colour copy of your passport.
  • A certified colour copy of your proof of address.
  • Visa holders: A copy of your current visa.
  • New Zealand citizens: A visa is not required.
  • Your expected New Zealand arrival date.
  • Your contact details.
  • Your tax residency information.

If you're applying for a joint account, each person will need to provide their own details and documents.

Your documents must be certified

Important: Your passport and proof of address must be certified by an approved trusted referee before you submit your application. A certified copy is a copy of your document that has been checked, signed and dated by an approved trusted referee. If your documents are not certified, we cannot process your application.

See who can certify your documents (PDF).

How it works.

1

Complete the online application

Enter your details, upload the required documents and sign electronically.
2

We review your application

We’ll check your eligibility and supporting information. We’ll contact you if anything else is required.
3

We open your account

If your application is approved, we’ll provide your account details so you can transfer money into the account before you arrive.
4

Activate your account

How you activate your account depends on your situation. We’ll let you know if you can do this remotely or if you’ll need to visit a Westpac branch in New Zealand with your original documents.

Before your account is activated.

Once your account is open, you can transfer money into it before it’s activated.

Until your account is activated, some features may not be available, including:

  • Digital banking (Westpac One)
  • Making payments
  • Transferring money out of your account
  • Viewing your balance online
  • Receiving a debit card.

Things you should know.

1 Apple Pay and Google Pay are available to all eligible Westpac debit and credit Mastercard customers. Customers also need a compatible Apple or Android device.

Apple and Apple Pay are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

Google Pay is a trademark of Google LLC.

Mastercard®  is a registered trademark and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.