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Topics

The same nine subjects come up for almost everyone who moves abroad. Each page explains what the rules usually turn on and lists the answers written so far.

Visas & status

Conditions, renewals, switching visa, what happens when a course or job ends.

What happens if my visa expires while I wait? Health & visa insurance

OSHC, OVHC and the health cover other countries require on a visa.

OVHC or OSHC — which one does my visa need? Banking

Opening an account before and after arrival, ID checks, fees.

What ID do banks accept from new arrivals? Money transfer & fees

Paying tuition from home, exchange-rate margins, sending money back.

How do I compare exchange-rate margins? Tax

Tax residency, tax file numbers, returns and refunds as a newcomer.

Do I need a tax number to start work? Housing

Renting without local history, bonds, leases, avoiding rental scams.

Where is my bond held? Phone & internet

SIMs and eSIMs on arrival, prepaid vs contract, ID for a number.

Can I get a phone contract on a student visa? Driving licences

Driving on an overseas licence, translations, converting to a local one.

Do I need an International Driving Permit? Work rights

Work-hour limits on student visas, pay, payslips and your rights at work.

Am I being paid below minimum wage?