Can I get a personal loan on a bridging visa?

No. Most lenders require that you have a valid, temporary visa before applying for a personal loan. This does not include bridging visas, criminal justice or enforcement visas. Depending on the lender, you need to have either a permanent visa, a work visa, a temporary skilled visa, a skilled sponsored visa or a business visa. The good news is that your bridging visa is transitional. You will move on to another visa category, and while you wait, you can work towards improving your chance of getting a loan. This can include strengthening your credit score, improving your employment history, adding to your savings and proving to the lender that you’re an all round good borrower.

Can I apply for a personal loan as an international student?

If you’re looking for financial assistance as an international student on a student visa, you may have better luck speaking to your university rather than applying for a loan. Most lenders have strict eligibility criteria, and may consider you if you hold a skilled temporary working or business visa. However, both international students and permanent residents are unable to apply for government assistance through the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP). You could speak to your university and find out what your options are. This can include scholarships and awards for international students. You could also apply for The Australian Awards, International Postgraduate Research Scholarship (IPRS) and the Endeavour Scholarships and Fellowships. Not all universities are alike. You may find that your university offers student and general purpose loans to permanent residents or full fee-paying onshore international students. There are also education loans offered by universities like University of Melbourne. It requires a guarantor and you will have to repay the loan before you complete your course. Depending on which country you’re from, there may be loans offered by your home country, which will allow you to study in Australia. Countries include Canada, Sweden, Norway, Germany, Denmark, the UK and the US. You should start by making an appointment with your university’s student financial assistance officer.

Which visas make me eligible for a personal loan in Australia?

Eligibility varies between lenders, but common eligible visas include temporary skill shortage (subclass 482), student (subclass 500), working holiday (subclass 417 and 462) and partner (subclass 820/801) visas. The key factor is whether your visa allows you to legally work and remain in Australia for the length of the loan term.

Can international students apply for a personal loan?

Yes, some lenders do offer personal loans to international students, but options are limited. You'll usually need a steady income from part-time work, a local co-borrower or guarantor and a visa with at least 12 months remaining before expiry.

Can I use a temporary resident personal loan to pay for relocation or visa costs?

Yes. Personal loans for temporary residents can be used for a wide range of purposes, including relocation expenses, visa application fees or setting up a new home in Australia. Just make sure your loan purpose is disclosed to the lender during the application process.

Do I need a guarantor to get a personal loan as a temporary resident?

While not always required, some lenders may ask for a guarantor who is an Australian citizen or permanent resident. Having a guarantor can help improve your chances of approval or access to better rates, especially if your visa is due to expire soon or your income is lower.

What happens to my personal loan if my visa expires or I leave Australia?

You're still responsible for repaying your loan, even if you leave the country. Contact your lender before you move to discuss repayment options. Some lenders may allow international transfers or early repayment without penalty if your circumstances change.

How much can I borrow as a temporary resident?

Loan amounts depend on your income, visa type, credit history and overall financial situation. As a general guide, temporary residents tend to be offered smaller amounts than permanent residents, with maximum limits often ranging between $2,000 and $50,000.

Are temporary residents eligible for online lenders and digital banks?

Some online lenders and neobanks in Australia do consider applications from temporary residents, though criteria can differ from traditional banks. Expect to provide extra evidence of income and visa duration and check that the lender is licensed by ASIC before applying.

Personal loans for temporary Australian residents

20 of 222 results

Interest rate (p.a.)	Comp. Rate (p.a.)	Application Fee	Monthly Fee	Monthly Repayment
NOW Finance No Fee Unsecured Personal Loan Finder AwardFixed18 Months - 7 Years $5,000 - $50,000	Interest Rate (p.a.) 5.95% to 26.95%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 5.95% to 26.95%	Application Fee $0	Monthly Fee $0	Monthly Repayment $911.98	ENDS SOON! $500 VISA CARD REWARD 1 Join Finder 2 Settle a loan with NOW Finance 3 Get gift card up to $500 from Finder Ends by. T&Cs apply.	Borrow up to $50,000 for any worthwhile purchase and pay no establishment or ongoing fees without providing collateral. You can also benefit from a more competitive interest rate if you have a strong credit score.	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
Latitude Fixed Rate Personal Loan ExclusiveFixed2 - 7 Years $5,000 -	Interest Rate (p.a.) 8.99% to 29.39%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 10.11% to 30.29%	Application Fee $0	Monthly Fee $16.50	Monthly Repayment $970.35	Finder exclusive: A 2% rate discount may be available to select customers (ends 1 Jul 2026). See if this offer applies to you. $395 establishment fee waived on approved loans until 19 May 2026. Subject to assessment & eligibility criteria. T&Cs apply.	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
ANZ Fixed Rate Personal Loan Fixed1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $75,000	Interest Rate (p.a.) 7.49% to 19.99%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 8.18% to 20.58%	Application Fee $150	Monthly Fee $10	Monthly Repayment $947.71	View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
Westpac Unsecured Personal Loan Fixed1 - 7 Years $4,000 - $50,000	Interest Rate (p.a.) 7.00% to 21.99%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 8.41% to 23.28%	Application Fee $250	Monthly Fee $15	Monthly Repayment $949.03	View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
CommBank Fixed Rate Personal Loan Fixed1 - 7 Years $4,000 - $50,000	Interest Rate (p.a.) 7.25% to 22.25%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 8.65% to 23.53%	Application Fee $250	Monthly Fee $15	Monthly Repayment $952.49	View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
OurMoneyMarket Unsecured Low-Rate Personal Loan ($5,000-$100,000) Fixed1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $100,000	Interest Rate (p.a.) 5.95% to 18.99%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 5.95% to 21.78%	Application Fee $0 min.	Monthly Fee $0	Monthly Repayment $911.98	No monthly or early exit fees. Loan amounts range from $5,000 to $75,000, and up to $100,000 for home improvement projects and motor vehicles. Eligibility: Applicants must have an Equifax credit score of 500 or above, an annual income of more than $25k, and must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident.	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
NOW Finance Secured Personal Loan - Very Good Credit Finder AwardFixed18 Months - 7 Years $15,000 - $100,000	Interest Rate (p.a.) 8.95% to 13.44%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 8.95% to 13.44%	Application Fee $0	Monthly Fee $0	Monthly Repayment $953.29	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
NOW Finance Secured Personal Loan - Good Credit Finder AwardFixed18 Months - 7 Years $15,000 - $100,000	Interest Rate (p.a.) 13.45% to 16.24%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 13.45% to 16.24%	Application Fee $0	Monthly Fee $0	Monthly Repayment $1,017.33	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
Jacaranda Finance Secured Personal Loan Fixed25 Months - 3 Years $3,000 - $25,000	Interest Rate (p.a.) 16.95% to 29.95%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 32.99% to 45.50%	Application Fee $125 - $1,190	Monthly Fee $26	Monthly Repayment $1,137.23	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
Revolut Unsecured Personal Loan - Average Credit Fixed1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $50,000	Interest Rate (p.a.) 19.48% to 24.18%		Application Fee $499	Monthly Fee $0	Monthly Repayment $1,125.39	Apply online and then access your funds in minutes if you're approved. Pay no monthly or annual fees to use the loan and no early repayment fees. Eligibility: Must be an Australian/NZ citizen or permanent resident, employed for 3+ months, earning at least $2,000/month, with a recommended Equifax credit score of 500+.	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
Latitude Variable Rate Personal Loan ExclusiveVariable2 - 7 Years $5,000 -	Interest Rate (p.a.) 9.99% to 29.39%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 11.10% to 30.29%	Application Fee $0	Monthly Fee $16.50	Monthly Repayment $984.37	Finder exclusive: A 2% rate discount may be available to select customers (ends 1 Jul 2026). See if this offer applies to you. $395 establishment fee waived on approved loans until 19 May 2026. Subject to assessment & eligibility criteria. T&Cs apply.	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
NOW Finance Secured Personal Loan - Excellent Credit Finder AwardFixed18 Months - 7 Years $15,000 - $100,000	Interest Rate (p.a.) 5.95% to 8.94%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 5.95% to 8.94%	Application Fee $0	Monthly Fee $0	Monthly Repayment $911.98	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
lendlab Low-Rate Fixed Personal Loans Fixed3 - 7 Years $10,000 -	Interest Rate (p.a.) 5.95% to 25.99%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 5.95% to 25.99%	Application Fee $0	Monthly Fee $0	Monthly Repayment $911.98	Access multiple lenders through lendlab's brokerage team. Eligibility: Applicants with an Equifax credit score of 550 or above are eligible.	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
NOW Finance No Fee Unsecured Personal Loan - Excellent Credit Finder AwardFixed18 Months - 7 Years $5,000 - $50,000	Interest Rate (p.a.) 5.95% to 9.44%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 5.95% to 9.44%	Application Fee $0	Monthly Fee $0	Monthly Repayment $911.98	ENDS SOON! $500 VISA CARD REWARD 1 Join Finder 2 Settle a loan with NOW Finance 3 Get gift card up to $500 from Finder Ends by. T&Cs apply.	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
Revolut Unsecured Personal Loan - Good Credit Fixed1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $50,000	Interest Rate (p.a.) 11.18% to 14.88%		Application Fee $399	Monthly Fee $0	Monthly Repayment $997.82	Apply online and then access your funds in minutes if you're approved. Pay no monthly or annual fees to use the loan and no early repayment fees. Eligibility: Must be an Australian/NZ citizen or permanent resident, employed for 3+ months, earning at least $2,000/month, with a recommended Equifax credit score of 500+.	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
lendlab Low-Rate Personal Loans - Average Credit Fixed3 - 7 Years $10,000 -	Interest Rate (p.a.) 14.44% to 16.48%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 16.48% to 17.28%	Application Fee $0	Monthly Fee $0	Monthly Repayment $1,031.75	Access multiple lenders through lendlab's brokerage team. Eligibility: Applicants with an Equifax credit score of 550 or above are eligible.	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
lendlab Low-Rate Personal Loans - Good Credit Fixed3 - 7 Years $10,000 -	Interest Rate (p.a.) 12.24% to 14.30%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 14.11% to 14.89%	Application Fee $0	Monthly Fee $0	Monthly Repayment $999.87	Access multiple lenders through lendlab's brokerage team. Eligibility: Applicants with an Equifax credit score of 550 or above are eligible.	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
lendlab Low-Rate Personal Loans - Very Good Credit Fixed3 - 7 Years $10,000 -	Interest Rate (p.a.) 6.94% to 9.06%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 9.06% to 13.01%	Application Fee $0	Monthly Fee $0	Monthly Repayment $925.49	Access multiple lenders through lendlab's brokerage team. Eligibility: Applicants with an Equifax credit score of 550 or above are eligible.	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
Revolut Unsecured Personal Loan - Excellent Credit Fixed1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $50,000	Interest Rate (p.a.) 6.17% to 6.17%		Application Fee $0	Monthly Fee $0	Monthly Repayment $914.97	Apply online and then access your funds in minutes if you're approved. Pay no monthly or annual fees to use the loan and no early repayment fees. Eligibility: Must be an Australian/NZ citizen or permanent resident, employed for 3+ months, earning at least $2,000/month, with a recommended Equifax credit score of 500+.	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
lendlab Low-Rate Personal Loans - Excellent Credit Fixed3 - 7 Years $10,000 -	Interest Rate (p.a.) 5.95% to 6.94%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 5.95% to 6.94%	Application Fee $0	Monthly Fee $0	Monthly Repayment $911.98	Access multiple lenders through lendlab's brokerage team. Eligibility: Applicants with an Equifax credit score of 550 or above are eligible.	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading

Showing 20 of 222 results

You'll have an easier time getting a personal loan if your temporary visa is valid for more than 12 months.
Check whether your visa type is accepted by lenders before applying. Subclass 482 and certain skilled work visas are typically eligible, while bridging or student visas often aren't.
Having regular full-time income, Australian bank statements and a good credit score will increase your approval chances.

Can a temporary resident get a personal loan in Australia?

Yes, temporary residents of Australia can take out personal loans, though it may be more difficult to meet eligibility criteria. There are no laws or regulations stopping non-residents from receiving a loan and the decision lies with the lender. This will depend on the type of visa you hold and not all temporary residents will be eligible for specific lenders.

Since temporary residents are seen by lenders as more risky, you may have to meet stricter criteria regarding employment and income. It’s also possible that you may have to pay higher interest rates and have more limited loan options.

What should I consider when looking for a personal loan as a non-resident?

The key factors to consider are:

Lenders may view you as a higher risk. Given your visa status, lenders may consider lending to you as more risky. There’s the possibility you may not be able to repay your loan before your visa expires. They will also take into account that your visa could be terminated at any given point, even if it’s unlikely. As a result, your interest rates may be higher than if you held a permanent visa.
Loan terms are restricted. Your loan term will also be limited to the length of your visa, which may result in higher monthly repayments.
Your overseas credit history doesn’t apply. This can be either good or bad news. On one hand, if you have a poor overseas credit history, it won’t count against you. On the other, your good credit history won’t be of any use either. You’ll be starting with a clean slate, and will have to build an Australian credit history from scratch.
Some temporary visas may not be eligible. Temporary work visa holders have a better chance of getting a loan than other temporary visa holders. This is because they have employment, likely a permanent role, which reduces the lender’s risk. Other types of temporary visas, like working holiday and bridging visas won’t be eligible.

What’s the eligibility criteria for a temporary resident personal loan?

The eligibility criteria for temporary residents is stricter than permanent residents. While each lender will have their own requirements, these are the key factors most lenders will consider:

Age. You'll need to be over 18 to be legally able to borrow in Australia.
Eligible visa. Different lenders accept different visas, so be sure to check before you apply. Most lenders consider sponsorship visas, while others may also accept business visas.
Employment. You'll generally need to be permanently employed and earn a regular income to show financial stability. Lenders may ask you for up to 3 years of employment history.
Income. The amount you earn will factor into your application. Be sure to show your income from your employment, as well as any passive income you earn.
Time in Australia. The more time you've spent in Australia, the better. How long you'll continue to spend is particularly important, as it will help lenders determine whether you'll be able to pay back the loan.
Credit history. Lenders will not look at your overseas credit history, only your history with Australian financial institutions. Make sure you honour your debts, pay your bills on time, and regularly save.

Eligibility criteria of major lenders

Keep in mind that even if you tick the boxes, lenders will consider your application on a case-by-case basis.

Lender	Eligibility requirements	Visa requirements
NAB	At least 18 years old Reside in Australia	An acceptable temporary residency visa Visitor visa (except a special category visa - NZ Citizen), working holiday, bridging, transit/short stay/seasonal, exchange/gap year and student visas not accepted
ANZ	18 years old Earn $15,000 p.a.	Temporary subclass work visas e.g. skilled and business visas accepted Working holiday visas not accepted
CommBank	18 years old Earn Reside in Australia	482 working visas are accepted
Westpac	18 years old Be an Australian permanent resident or have an approved visa Have confirmed employment	Hold one of the following accepted visas 100 - Partner (Provisional and Migrant) Visa 103 - Parent visa 115 - Remaining Relative visa 119 - Regional Sponsor Migration Scheme 120 - Labour Agreement visa 121 - Employer Nomination Scheme 124 - Distinguished Talent visa 132 - Business Talent (Permanent) visa 143 - Contributory Parent visa 151 - Former Resident visa 155 - Return Resident visa 160 & 165 - Business Skills (Provisional) visa 175 - Skilled Independent visa 176 - Skilled Sponsored visa 186 - Employer Nomination Scheme 187 - Regional Sponsor Migration Scheme 188 - Business Innovation and Investment 189 - Skilled Independent visa 190 - Skilled Nominated visa 405 - Investor Retirement visa 475 & 487 - Skilled Regional Sponsored visa 482 - Skills in Demand (Temporary Skill Shortage) visa 489 - Skilled Regional (provisional) visa 801 - Partner visa 835 - Remaining Relative visa 855 - Labour Agreement visa 856 - Employer Nomination Scheme 857 - Regional Sponsor Migration Scheme 858 - Distinguished Talent visa 885 - Skilled Independent visa 886 - Sponsored visa 887 - Skilled Regional visa 888 - Business Innovation and Investment (permanent) visa 890 - Business Owner 892 - State or Territory Sponsored Business Owner visa 893 - State or Territory Sponsored Investor visa

Can I get a personal loan on a 485 visa?

If you’re on a temporary graduate visa, or the 485 visa, you can work full time but you may not be able to get a personal loan. However, you could apply for a home loan if you need one.
Lenders will be more likely to lend once you transition to another visa category, like a permanent residency, employer sponsored visa or a partner visa. While you wait, you could improve your chance of getting a loan by strengthening your credit score, saving money and finding permanent employment.

What kind of personal loans can I apply for as a temporary resident?

You can generally apply for a secured or unsecured personal loan. Your chance of getting a loan will increase if you opt for the secured option and offer collateral. You should also be able to apply for a car loan and a short-term or payday loan, as these lenders tend to have more open eligibility criteria. There are a many types of loans from many different lenders, so be sure to compare your personal loans to make sure you're getting the best deal.

What can I use a temporary resident personal loan for?

Personal loans are generally flexible when it comes to use, unless you apply for a car loan. With a car loan, you can only use the funds for the purchase of a car and related expenses. Here’s what you can use a temporary resident personal loan for:

Cars. You could get either a car loan or a personal loan, which you can use to buy a car. A car loan may be cheaper as you can use the car as security.
Education. If you’re at university and need a loan to cover your tuition fees or buy textbooks, you can apply for a personal loan.
Work tools. Business owners can borrow to fund or rent the equipment, machinery, or electronics they need for their business.
Appliances. TVs, refrigerators, washing machines and dishwashers are some appliances you can buy with a personal loan.
Emergencies. In case of emergency expenses, like car repairs or an unexpected medical bill, a personal loan can help you meet those urgent bills.

Personal loan statistics in May 2026

The lowest unsecured rate is 5.76% and the average is 10.32%.
The lowest secured rate is 5.67% and the average is 9.38%.
The average Australian is carrying $20,139 in personal loans (including car loans).
Most people take out personal loan terms of 4 years.
28% of people say they're concerned by the amount of debt they have.

*The information in this update comes from Finder's loans database and Consumer Sentiment Tracker. Information is correct as of 15 April 2026.

How can I compare personal loans?

By comparing personal loans, you can find a loan that both suits your circumstances and your wallet.

Interest rate. The lower the interest rate, the lower your repayments. But the rate advertised may not be the same rate you get. Lenders offer personalised or risk-based interest rates, tailored to your risk profile. The higher they deem your risk, the higher the interest rate and vice versa.
Comparison rate. The comparison rate provides a general guide of what interest rate you're really paying, once fees are included. It's based on a specific loan example though so isn't a true representation for everyone. But if the comparison rate is a lot higher than the interest rate, you might find there's a hefty fee driving up the overall cost.
Loan terms. Most personal loan terms range from 1 to 7 years. For temporary residents, you should look at the length of your visa as an indicator of your loan term. With shorter loan terms your monthly repayments will be higher, but you'll pay off the loan sooner and with less interest. Longer terms come with lower monthly repayments, but you'll pay more overall.
Repayment flexibility. Check that the loan offers the option to repay early without penalty, that you can make additional repayments, and that you can tailor your repayments according to your pay schedule.
Asset requirements. This usually applies to secured personal loans and car loans. Check if your asset meets the lender’s requirements for security. This can be the age of your car or how much you currently have in your term deposit.
Eligibility and visa requirements. Check that your visa type is eligible as well as the requirements on the time left on your visa. You should also meet their income, employment and credit requirements.

What are the pros and cons of personal loans for temporary residents?

Pros

Overseas credit history does not count. If you have a bad credit history abroad, it does not play a role in applying for credit in Australia.
Build credit history. By taking out a loan, you can build your credit history and improve your chance of getting more credit in the future. This is only the case if you make your repayments on time and meet your credit obligations.
Flexibility. Personal loans are generally flexible. They allow you to pay off your loan over a term of 1 to 7 years, depending on when your visa ends. Depending on the loan, you can also use the funds for a variety of purposes.

Cons

Good overseas credit history does not count. If you have a good credit history back home, this will not count in your favour.
Higher rates. You may receive higher interest rates depending on your risk profile. This can make the loan more expensive.
Fewer choices. Not all personal loans are available to temporary residents.
More documentation. You may have to show more documentation than a permanent resident or citizen of Australia. You will also have to provide a copy of your passport and visa, along with details of your work history in Australia.

How can I apply for a temporary resident personal loan?

The personal loan application process is basically the same for a temporary resident. But before you apply you need to make sure the lender actually accepts applications from borrowers with your specific visa type.

Do the maths. Work out what kind of loan you need and how much you want to borrow. Use a personal loan repayment calculator to work out your repayments and see how much you can afford.
Compare loans and lenders. Look for loans with low interest rates and minimal fees.
Double check eligibility. Check a lender's website carefully to see if you can get a loan with your visa type. You might find the information hidden in an FAQ section, or you might need to use the lender's chat support function to find more information.
Fill in the application. Most lenders will allow you to do this online, but as a temporary resident you may need to apply over the phone or in person. You'll need to provide information to the lender, including your visa, personal ID, proof of employment, an Australian bank account and evidence of income and savings.
Wait for approval. It shouldn't take long to get your application approved or rejected. A rejection can temporarily hurt your credit score. So before you rush to apply for another loan from a different lender, rethink your approach. Work out why you were rejected. You may need to borrow less, provide some kind of security for the loan or improve your credit score before applying again.

How can I improve my chance of approval as a temporary resident?

You can maximise your chance of approval by following a few simple steps, though approval is never guaranteed. In short, to increase your chance you'll need to prove that you're able to pay back the loan and that you're a trustworthy borrower.

One way to do this is by having permanent employment and receiving a regular income, along with the bank statements to prove this.

Offering some security, like a vehicle or a term deposit, will also help. The asset will reduce the lender's risk and increase your likelihood of receiving a loan.

Building a good credit history by paying your bills on time and saving shows you are responsible with your money which can also go a long way to improving your odds.

Why compare personal loans with Finder?

Addicted to details. We know taking out a personal loan is something you'll be hooked up with for a while. That's why we put hours into research for this guide (and still do at least once a month)

Rates obsessed. Lenders come in all shapes and sizes, that's why we don't just track the big banks, but all the digi folk too. Pretty much everyone but your parents to be honest.

Cash for whatever you need. Lending rates verified from 180+ products day and night. Whether you're buying a car, rennovating your home or heck just ready to let loose with the spending - we got you.

Frequently asked questions

No. Most lenders require that you have a valid, temporary visa before applying for a personal loan. This does not include bridging visas, criminal justice or enforcement visas. Depending on the lender, you need to have either a permanent visa, a work visa, a temporary skilled visa, a skilled sponsored visa or a business visa.
The good news is that your bridging visa is transitional. You will move on to another visa category, and while you wait, you can work towards improving your chance of getting a loan. This can include strengthening your credit score, improving your employment history, adding to your savings and proving to the lender that you’re an all round good borrower.
If you’re looking for financial assistance as an international student on a student visa, you may have better luck speaking to your university rather than applying for a loan.
Most lenders have strict eligibility criteria, and may consider you if you hold a skilled temporary working or business visa. However, both international students and permanent residents are unable to apply for government assistance through the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP). You could speak to your university and find out what your options are.
This can include scholarships and awards for international students. You could also apply for The Australian Awards, International Postgraduate Research Scholarship (IPRS) and the Endeavour Scholarships and Fellowships.
Not all universities are alike. You may find that your university offers student and general purpose loans to permanent residents or full fee-paying onshore international students.
There are also education loans offered by universities like University of Melbourne. It requires a guarantor and you will have to repay the loan before you complete your course.
Depending on which country you’re from, there may be loans offered by your home country, which will allow you to study in Australia. Countries include Canada, Sweden, Norway, Germany, Denmark, the UK and the US.
You should start by making an appointment with your university’s student financial assistance officer.

Sources

Thank you for your feedback!

To make sure you get accurate and helpful information, this guide has been edited by Richard Whitten as part of our fact-checking process.

Written by

Rebecca Pike

Editor, Money

Rebecca Pike is Finder’s money editor, with over 7 years of experience in mortgages and personal finance. A frequent TV and radio commentator, she frequently appears on Sunrise and 7News, Today and 9News, as well as Sky News, Channel 10 and across radio and print. Rebecca previously served as Editor of Mortgage Professional Australia. She has a Master’s degree in Journalism as well as ASIC-recognised certifications in Tier 1 Generic Knowledge and Tier 2 General Advice Deposit Products, which comply with ASIC guidelines. See full bio

Rebecca's expertise

Rebecca has written 297 Finder guides across topics including:

Home loans
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38 Responses

julieAugust 18, 2015

hi i see you say 573 study visa can get a loan but I can not find this

Finder

StephanieAugust 24, 2015Finder

Hi Julie,

Thanks for your question.

As a student, you are eligible for loans with certain lenders. You can view a list of some lenders who offer loans to temporary residents here: https://www.finder.com.au/moving-to-australia/loans-for-non-residents.

Alternatively, while study assistance from the government is not available to international students, depending on your university and financial circumstance, you might be able to obtain a student loan through your university. To find out if there are student loans available for you, contact your educational institution’s student financial assistance officer or similar.

I hope this has helped,

Stephanie

sahibAugust 8, 2015

hi my name is sahib i m just ashing which bank provides personal loan ?

Finder

ElizabethAugust 10, 2015Finder

Hi Sahib,

Thanks for your question.

The lenders listed in the table on this page consider you for a loan if you are a temporary resident – you can have a look at the eligibility criteria by clicking on the name of the loan. When you’re ready to apply click ‘Go to Site’.

I hope this has helped.

Thanks,

Elizabeth

RajJuly 10, 2015

Hi. I am on 485 visa. I have around 9 months left on visa. Am I eligible for a short term loan for 6 months for an amount of around $6000?

Finder

StephanieJuly 13, 2015Finder

Hi Raj,

Thanks for your question.

Please be advised that finder.com.au is a financial comparison website and not a lender.

With regards to your question, you may be eligible for a short term loan with a lender. As a temporary resident, in order to be approved for you loan, you may be required to provide further information about yourself and your financial situation including proof of your visa, your employment situation, and your ability to repay your loan before your visa expires. The lender may also charge you at a higher interest rate due to your circumstances.

For a complete idea of what will be required of you in order to secure a loan, I suggest you contact your chosen lender direct. A number of lenders offering loans for temporary residents can be found on this page.

I hope this has helped,

Stephanie

HappyApril 2, 2015

Hi there,

I am current hold 485 visa, I already get FIRB and already paid the deposit, Could I get home loan from any of banks?

Regards

Finder

ShirleyApril 7, 2015Finder

Hi Happy,

Thanks for your question.

Typically, temporary residents of Australia who have been issued a 457 visa are able to qualify for a home loan in Australia.

To be able to find out what loans may be available for a temporary resident, I recommend getting in touch with a licensed mortgage broker that can help you understand your financial position and they can leverage their panel of networks to find a lender that’s more inclined to review your application.

Cheers,
Shirley

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Great Southern Bank Personal Loans
If you're considering applying for a personal loan, you may want to consider Great Southern Bank. They offer car loans as well as secured and unsecured personal loans. Read our guide for more information.
Secured Personal Loans
Are secured personal loans better than unsecured personal loans and how do they work?
How much can I borrow with a personal loan?
Personal loans offer a range of loan amounts to suit different purposes and budgets. Here's how to get the loan amount you need.
Easy personal loans
Not all personal loans come with endless documentation. Some lenders specialise in quick and easy application processes.
NAB Unsecured Variable Rate Personal Loan
Get a variable rate personal loan with personalised rates and same-day funding.
Personal loan calculator
Use a personal loan calculator to work out your repayments or compare loans with a comparison calculator.
Compare fixed rate personal loans from 5.67% p.a.
We’ve written about fixed rate personal loans and what their advantages are.
Cheap personal loans
Find out exactly what you need to know when it comes to cheap personal loans, including working out if a loan is really competitive.
NAB Unsecured Fixed Rate Personal Loan
The NAB unsecured 10k+ personal loan allows you to borrow money for the consolidation of debts, a holiday trip or a new car. Learn more about the features and benefits of this loan and how to apply online.

Personal loans for temporary residents

It's harder for non-residents to qualify for a personal loan. Here are some lenders who accept applications from certain visa holders, and tips to get approved.

Key takeaways

Can a temporary resident get a personal loan in Australia?

What should I consider when looking for a personal loan as a non-resident?