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.

4.6 based on 835 reviews
$
years
Interest rate (p.a.) Comp. Rate (p.a.) Application Fee Monthly Fee Monthly Repayment
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
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 selection
Interest Rate (p.a.)
6.19%
to 19.99%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
7.03%
to 20.78%
Application Fee
$199
Monthly Fee
$8
Monthly Repayment
$929.31
No early repayment fees and same-day funding for existing ING customers.

Eligibility: Applicants must be 18+, Australian/ NZ citizen or permanent resident of Australia, and earning at least $36,000 a year (before tax) with PAYG payslips.
Go to site View details
Compare product selection
Interest Rate (p.a.)
8.99%
to 28.39%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
10.11%
to 29.29%
Application Fee
$0
Monthly Fee
$16.50
Monthly Repayment
$970.35
$395 establishment fee waived for approved personal loan applications for a limited time. Latitude may withdraw the offer at any time. T&Cs apply.
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NAB logo
NAB Unsecured Variable Rate Personal Loan
Variable1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $55,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
7.50%
to 22.00%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
8.54%
to 22.88%
Application Fee
$0
Monthly Fee
$15
Monthly Repayment
$948.19
$250 application fee is waived for valid applications started from 8 October 2026 until 3 December 2026. Applications must be completed within 30 days. T&Cs apply.
Go to site View details
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ANZ logo
ANZ Fixed Rate Personal Loan
Fixed1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $75,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
7.49%
to 21.99%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
8.18%
to 22.56%
Application Fee
$150
Monthly Fee
$10
Monthly Repayment
$947.71
View details
Compare product selection
Westpac logo
Westpac Unsecured Personal Loan
Fixed1 - 7 Years $4,000 - $70,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
7.29%
to 23.25%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
8.69%
to 24.53%
Application Fee
$250
Monthly Fee
$15
Monthly Repayment
$953.05
View details
Compare product selection
CommBank logo
CommBank Fixed Rate Personal Loan
Fixed1 - 7 Years $4,000 - $50,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
6.99%
to 23.99%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
8.04%
to 24.85%
Application Fee
$250
Monthly Fee
$15
Monthly Repayment
$948.89
View details
Compare product selection
Latitude logo
Latitude Variable Rate Unsecured Personal Loan
ExclusiveVariable2 - 7 Years $5,000 - $200,000
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: $395 establishment fee waived for approved personal loan applications for a limited time. Latitude may withdraw the offer at any time. T&Cs apply.
Go to site View details
Compare product selection
Jacaranda Finance logo
Jacaranda Finance Unsecured Personal Loan
Fixed25 Months - 3 Years $3,000 - $15,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
27.95%
to 29.95%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
44.50%
to 46.50%
Application Fee
$13.50 - $950
Monthly Fee
$26
Monthly Repayment
$1,305.37
Go to site View details
Compare product selection
Latitude logo
Latitude Fixed Rate Unsecured Personal Loan
ExclusiveFixed2 - 7 Years $5,000 - $200,000
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: $395 establishment fee waived for approved personal loan applications for a limited time. Latitude may withdraw the offer at any time. T&Cs apply.
Go to site View details
Compare product selection
Latitude logo
Latitude Fixed Rate Secured Personal Loan
Variable2 - 7 Years $5,000 - $200,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
8.99%
to 28.39%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
10.11%
to 29.29%
Application Fee
$0
Monthly Fee
$16.50
Monthly Repayment
$970.35
$395 establishment fee waived for approved personal loan applications for a limited time. Latitude may withdraw the offer at any time. T&Cs apply.
Go to site View details
Compare product selection
Fair Go Finance logo
Fair Go Finance Medium Loan
Fixed6 Months - 2 Years $2,001 - $5,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
29.90%
to 59.20%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
47%
to 64.99%
Application Fee
$400
Monthly Fee
$18
Monthly Repayment
$1,306.86
Go to site View details
Compare product selection
Fair Go Finance logo
Fair Go Finance Large Loan
Fixed16 Months - 2 Years $5,050 - $10,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
21.90%
to 29.21%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
25.90%
to 33.76%
Application Fee
$795
Monthly Fee
$14
Monthly Repayment
$1,188.48
Go to site View details
Compare product selection
ANZ logo
ANZ Variable Rate Personal Loan
Variable1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $75,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
7.49%
to 21.99%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
8.18%
to 22.56%
Application Fee
$150
Monthly Fee
$10
Monthly Repayment
$947.71
View details
Compare product selection
Defence Bank logo
Defence Bank Consolidation Loan
Variable1 - 7 Years $1,000 - $100,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
13.99%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
14.93%
Application Fee
$150
Monthly Fee
$10
Monthly Repayment
$1,040.31
View details
Compare product selection
Police Bank logo
Police Bank Fixed Rate Personal Loan
Fixed1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $100,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
12.99%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
13.14%
Application Fee
$98
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
$1,013.98
View details
Compare product selection
Unity Bank logo
Unity Bank Green Upgrades Loan
Variable1 - 7 Years $1,000 - $50,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
5.55%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
5.55%
Application Fee
$0
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
$906.55
View details
Compare product selection
Horizon Bank logo
Horizon Bank Green Personal Loan
Variable1 - 5 Years $1,000 - $30,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
8.24%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
8.92%
Application Fee
$100
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
$946.56
View details
Compare product selection
Police Credit Union logo
Police CU Secured Personal Loan - min $5k
Fixed1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $100,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
7.49%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
7.90%
Application Fee
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
$933.05
View details
Compare product selection
The Capricornian logo
The Capricornian Personal Loan
Variable1 - 5 Years $3,000 - $30,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
10.94%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
11.30%
Application Fee
$250
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
$989.49
View details
Compare product selection
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Showing 20 of 221 results

Key takeaways

  • 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.

LenderEligibility requirementsVisa requirementsReview personal loans
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

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 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 November 2026

  • The lowest unsecured rate is 5.76% and the average is 10.98%.
  • The lowest secured rate is 5.67% and the average is 9.36%.
  • 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 November 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.

  1. 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.
  2. Compare loans and lenders. Look for loans with low interest rates and minimal fees.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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?

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

Frequently asked questions

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

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 253 Finder guides across topics including:
  • Home loans
  • Personal Loans
  • Car Loans
  • Cost of living
  • Budgeting

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38 Responses

    julie's avatar
    julieAugust 18, 2015

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

      Stephanie Yip's headshotFinder
      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

    sahib's avatar
    sahibAugust 8, 2015

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

      Elizabeth's headshotFinder
      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

    Raj's avatar
    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?

      Stephanie Yip's headshotFinder
      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

    Happy's avatar
    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

      Shirley Liu's headshotFinder
      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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