Get Approved Before You Arrive in Australia
Car Loans & Finance Pre-Approvals for New Arrivals from Overseas
Moving to Australia Soon?
Know Your Finance Options Before You Land.
One of the biggest mistakes new arrivals make is waiting until after they arrive in Australia to organise finance.
At Royston Finance, we help skilled migrants, visa holders, and new arrivals explore finance options before arriving in Australia, so you can land with confidence, understand your budget, and avoid unnecessary stress.
Whether you are moving from the UK, New Zealand, South Africa, Philippines, Ireland, Singapore, or anywhere else in the world, our team understands the migration journey because we have been through it ourselves.
We can setup a call to you overseas prior to your move to discuss in detail what your requirements are and how everything will work.
Helpful Resources for Forward Planners
Why Arrange Finance Before Arrival?
Starting life in Australia comes with enough uncertainty already:
- Finding accommodation
- Starting a new job
- Organising transport
- Understanding the Australian finance system
- Building credit history
Many migrants are surprised to discover that dealerships and banks may not understand temporary visas or new arrivals.
By speaking with Royston Finance before you land, you can:
- Understand your borrowing power
- Learn which lenders support your visa type
- Avoid damaging your credit score
- Have a realistic vehicle budget before arrival
- Reduce stress during your first few weeks in Australia
- Potentially secure approval prior to arrival
Can I Get Approved Before Arriving in Australia?
In many cases, yes.
Depending on your visa type, employment situation, and supporting documents, we may be able to:
- Assess your eligibility before arrival
- Review your employment contract
- Discuss likely borrowing capacity
- Explain lender requirements
- Prepare your application in advance
- Help position you for faster approval once you arrive
Some customers begin the process weeks or even months before landing in Australia.
We Protect Your Credit Score
Many migrants unknowingly damage their credit file by applying with the wrong lenders or multiple dealerships.
Most people do not realise that applying with the wrong lender can lead to:
- unnecessary declines
- multiple credit enquiries
- damage to your credit file
At Royston Finance, we do things differently.
Our approach:
- No “shotgun” applications
- We only approach lenders suited to your visa type
- We carefully select the right lender first
- No unnecessary credit enquiries
- No applying “just to see what happens”
We only submit applications when we believe there is a realistic chance of approval.
Been declined by a bank?
Just arrived and unsure what is possible?
We deal with these situations every day.
Just because one lender says no does not mean approval is impossible.
Different lenders assess:
- Visa subclass
- Employment history
- Time in Australia
- Income structure
- Credit profile
Knowing where and how to apply can make a significant difference.
Why Skilled Migrants Choose Royston Finance
We Understand Visa Holder Finance
Our team has been through the migration process ourselves, so we understand the challenges migrants face when applying for finance in Australia.
Fast Approvals
Many customers receive approvals within 24–48 hours, depending on the lender and supporting documents required.
Competitive Finance Options
Many visa holders can access rates similar to Australian citizens and permanent residents.
Flexible Lending Solutions
Options may be available even if:
- you recently started employment
- you have limited Australian credit history
- you are on a temporary visa
- you have been declined elsewhere
Real Support From People Who Understand
Our team has personally experienced the migration process and understands the challenges involved in settling into life in Australia.
We focus on protecting your credit file and only proceed when we believe the application is right.
Trusted by Migrants Across Australia
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Over 170 genuine 5-star Google reviews
Customers from more than 20 countries
Award-winning finance brokerage
Managing Director Ian Brown was named Lenders’ Choice Broker of the Year 2025 for the Queensland region.
Asset Finance
Finance available for:
- new and used cars
- motorcycles
- caravans
- camper trailers
- boats
- jet skis
Features:
- Flexible loan terms
- Options for limited credit history
- Day 1 employment options available
- Private sales accepted
Car Subscription
A good option for customers who may not yet qualify for traditional car finance.
- We can refer you to our trusted partner Karmo for an exclusive discount.
- Good option for non eligible car loan customers
- Easy application process — suitable for WHV 417 visa holders
Novated Leasing
- New or used vehicles up to 10 years old
- Flexible terms available
- Refinancing and private sale options
- ATO-compliant structures available
- Fuel cards and servicing packages available
Personal Loans
Very much on a case by case basis, please call our team on (07) 3916 9440 to discuss your circumstances and reason for loan before applying.
Visas must not be expiring within the next 26 months.
Secured and unsecured options
Business Finance
Finance available for:
- vehicles
- equipment
- technology
- business assets
Options available for:
- ABN holders
- Easy Doc applications
- Full Doc applications
Eligibility will depend on visa type and business circumstances.
Who We Help
✔ Temporary visa holders
✔ Permanent residents
✔ Returning Australian citizens
✔ New Zealand citizens relocating to Australia
Even with limited or no Australian credit history, finance may still be possible.
Loan requirements for temporary visa holders:
- Loan must finish at least 1 month before your visa expires
- Must hold an acceptable visa - Check list
- Minimum visa length: 13 months
Skilled Visas We Commonly Assist
We regularly help customers on skilled and sponsored visas, including:
✔ 482 Temporary Skill Shortage
✔ 485 Graduate Visa
✔ 491 Skilled Work Regional
✔ 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored
✔ 190 Skilled Nominated Visa
✔ 189 Skilled Independent Visa
✔ Bridging Visas (case dependent)
We also support many more additional visa subclasses, check full list.
Contact us to discuss your situation.
What Happens After You Enquire?
We believe finance should be clear, straightforward, and transparent.
Step 1 — Initial Discussion
We learn more about your situation and finance goals.
Step 2 — Obligation-Free Assessment
We review your circumstances and complete a soft credit review with no impact on your score.
Step 3 — Lender Selection
We recommend lenders and products suitable for your situation.
Step 4 — Quote & Review
We explain the recommended option clearly before proceeding.
Step 5 — Submission & Approval
Applications are submitted only once you are comfortable proceeding.
Step 6 — Settlement
We guide you through settlement and keep the process as smooth as possible.
Transparent Fees & Costs
At Royston Finance, transparency is important to us.
Brokerage Fees
Our brokerage fee ranges from $500 to $1,495 depending on the loan amount financed.
This fee supports:
- lender research and selection
- application preparation
- approval management
- settlement support
- ongoing customer guidance
The exact fee is always disclosed and agreed before proceeding.
Other Costs
Depending on the lender, there may also be:
- application fees
- monthly account fees
- early repayment fees
All fees and charges are explained clearly before any paperwork is signed.
No surprises.
Avoid Common Pitfalls
Most brokers and dealerships have little experience with customers arriving from overseas and send applications to the wrong lenders everyday, often without completing the correct checks which will often result in a decline or further information being require and can damage credit scores and new credit files.
At Royston Finance we know exactly what is needed upfront and which lenders will accept your application whilst matching you to the most competitive payment available without the guess work. We will work with you to find the best deal as being rate driven is not always the best approach.
Some lenders charge monthly account keeping fees and dazzle customers with lower rates when in fact it costs the customer more overall.
Communication You Can Rely On
We understand waiting for finance approval can feel stressful.
That is why we commit to:
- Fast response times
- Regular updates throughout the process
- One dedicated point of contact
- Clear and honest communication
If Things Don’t Go to Plan
- Complaints – If you are not happy, we have a simple complaints process (explained here). We aim to resolve issues within 5 business days.
- Hardship – If your circumstances change (job loss, illness, etc.), let us know right away. Many lenders offer payment pauses or temporary arrangements, and we’ll guide you through it.
Trusted by Migrants Across Australia
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Over 170 genuine 5-star Google reviews
Customers from more than 20 countries
Award-winning finance brokerage
Managing Director Ian Brown was named Lenders’ Choice Broker of the Year 2025 for the Queensland region.
Ready to Get Started?
📞 Call us on (07) 3916 9440
💻 Complete an eligibility check with no impact to your credit score.
We are here to help make your move to Australia easier and less stressful.
Listen to our podcast with The Down Under Centre!
Our Managing Director, Ian Brown recently joined our partners at The Down Under Centre to chat about his journey from the UK to Australia and why he started Royston Finance.
In this episode of the Migrating to Australia podcast, host Lisa Chambers chats with Ian who shares his inspiring journey from the UK to Oz, as well as how Royston Finance can help Migrants.
Available to listen to on Spotify, Apple podcasts, Youtube and Youtube music
Frequently Asked Questions
Please reach us at office@roystonfinance.com.au if you cannot find an answer to your question.
Potentially, yes.
Many skilled migrants, New Zealand citizens, and returning Australians contact us before arriving in Australia to understand their finance options and prepare in advance.
Depending on your situation, some lenders may allow parts of the process to begin before you land.
In some cases, yes.
Approval depends on factors such as:
- Visa or residency status
- Employment arrangements
- Income and affordability
- Supporting documents
- Planned arrival date
Some customers are able to position themselves for faster approval shortly after arriving in Australia.
Depending on your circumstances, lenders will need:
- Passport
- Visa grant notice (if applicable)
- Employment contract
- Drivers Licence (Overseas Ok)
- Planned Australian address details
Don’t worry if you don’t have everything yet, we can guide you through what may be needed.
No. Our initial assessment is designed to protect your credit file. We will review your situation first and only proceed with a formal application if it’s suitable for you.
Not always. Some lenders may offer up to 100% car finance for eligible depending on your visa type, employment, income, and credit profile.
Potentially. Your visa type and expiry date can influence available loan terms and interest rates. Temporary visa holders may sometimes receive slightly higher rates however, we work to find the most competitive option available.
We work with a wide range of visa holders, including temporary, sponsored, skilled, partner, graduate and bridging visas. Even if your visa type isn’t listed, we may still be able to help.
Yes. Some lenders accept applications from visa holders and temporary residents with little or no Australian credit history. We will help identify lenders that are more flexible with new arrivals.
Yes. Most lenders require the loan term to finish before your visa expiry date, often with at least one month remaining on your visa.
In many cases, yes. Some lenders accept overseas driver licences, although requirements vary between lenders and visa types.
Most lenders will require:
- Passport and visa documents
- Proof of income (payslips or employment contract)
- Proof of Australian address
- Driver licence or overseas licence
Ideally, 2–8 weeks before arriving in Australia.
This gives enough time to:
- Understand your borrowing capacity
- Review your documents
- Discuss lender options
- Prepare for approval
Not always. Interest rates depend on several factors including visa type, income, credit history, loan amount, and the vehicle being financed. We compare lenders to help secure a competitive rate.
Some lenders allow early repayments without fees, while others may charge break or exit fees. We will explain all repayment conditions clearly before you proceed.
Many applications receive conditional approval within 24–48 hours after all required documents are submitted. Approval times may vary depending on your circumstances and how quickly additional information is provided.
Yes. Depending on your visa type and financial situation, we may be able to assist with finance for motorcycles, caravans, trailers, utes, vans and other vehicles.
Yes. Permanent residency is not always required. Many Australian lenders offer car finance solutions for temporary residents and visa holders.
There’s no single minimum credit score required. Different lenders have different criteria, and some lenders are more flexible for visa holders or applicants with limited Australian credit history.
Yes. Self-employed visa holders may still qualify for car finance, although lenders may require additional income documentation such as bank statements or tax returns.
Yes. Many lenders provide finance for both new and used vehicles for eligible visa holders and temporary residents.
Potentially, yes. Refinancing may help reduce repayments or secure a better interest rate, depending on your visa status, income, and loan history.
Yes. Joint applications may improve borrowing strength and approval chances, depending on both applicants’ financial situations and visa status.
Potentially, yes. Some lenders accept part-time, casual, or contract employment if your income is stable and meets lending requirements.
Yes. Pre-approval can help you understand your borrowing capacity and shop for a vehicle with greater confidence.
Contact your lender or broker as soon as possible. Many lenders offer hardship assistance options such as payment pauses, repayment variations, or loan restructuring during periods of financial difficulty.
21 Ingleston Road, Tingalpa QLD, Australia
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Tel - (07) 3916 9440
21 Ingleston Road, Tingalpa Queensland 4173, Australia (Australia wide service)