Using an overseas card for Australian purchases converts amounts into your card's currency, exposing you to poor exchange rates and fees. An Australian card in Australian dollars avoids that, and avoids the foreign transaction fee (commonly 3%) that local spending on a foreign card attracts.
Repaying is simpler from an Australian bank account, with no international transfers. And using a local card responsibly builds an Australian credit score, which helps with renting, utilities and future loans. For fee-free overseas spending, also compare no foreign transaction fee cards.
Eligible visas and documents
Commonly accepted visas include the Temporary Skill Shortage visa (482), other temporary work visas (400, 403, 408), temporary graduate visas (476, 485), and various business, skilled and humanitarian visas. The Department of Home Affairs lists eligibility by visa type.
You'll typically need your foreign passport, your visa for VEVO verification, a foreign birth or citizenship certificate, a driver's licence, your current Australian and previous overseas addresses, and employer and income details. Non-English documents may need a certified translation.
Income and identity checks
Australia's 100-point ID check needs documents proving identity: a foreign passport usually scores 70 points, and an Australian driver's licence adds more.
Temporary residents may need to show a higher income, given limited local credit history. The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold is $76,515 from 1 July 2025, which should qualify for many cards. Family members on eligible visas can apply for their own card or be supplementary cardholders, though the primary cardholder is responsible for all debt on the account.
Temporary residents credit card FAQs
Yes. The Big Four banks, American Express and others issue cards to many temporary residents, including holders of the Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482). You'll usually need to pass the 100-point ID check and meet the income criteria.
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David Boyd
Vidhu Bajaj
Andrew Boyd
