If you’re like me, you like to get things sorted before you arrive. Therefore being able to setup a bank account in the country your moving to before you arrive is handy. HSBC through their International Banking Centre provides a service where you can setup bank accounts in the country you’re moving too from your current location provided it has a HSBC branch nearby. Luckily i had used this service previously when i moved to the UK and i am unaware of any other banks that can provide this international service.
Ironically the bank billed as “your local bank” and the “international bank” doesn’t allow transferring accounts internationally, so if you’re a current customer in the country you’re in you cannot transfer it overseas which is a real pain. The process does involve providing 3 months of bank statement from your current bank, A$4000 and 4 weeks+ but it does give you peace of mind to know you can focus on getting a job or having a good time once you arrive. All in all it’s a an excellent service I’ve used twice now and HSBC must be applauded for providing it in such a professional manner.
If your Australian, follow this link to the HSBC International Banking Services contact page:
http://www.hsbc.com.au/1/2/personal/international/move-os/apply
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