LETS BRIEF YOU ON PRE-APPROVAL

PRE-APPROVAL CHECKLIST

Below is a guide on how to qualify for pre-approval before you land

YOU MUST:

Be on a skilled visa

482, 485, 491, 189, 190, 186

On a different visa? Fill in the below form for a free chat with our broker to discuss your options with no hit on your credit file.

Have a work contract ready to go in Australia (or already be working in AUS)

Proof of employment ensures stable income for your loan repayments.

Not have poor credit

Applicants with strong credit histories are more likely to be approved.

Be prepared to place a 10-20% deposit

A deposit reduces lender risk and improves your loan approval changes.

YOU MAY:

Be a home owner in AUS or your home country (This could waive the deposit requirement)

Have had good credit on a past car / home loan

Positive credit history demonstrates reliability and strengthens your application profile.

You Have Questions? We've got Answers

My visa expires in 12 months. Can I still qualify?

YES! However do note that 12 months is the absolute minimum amount of time left to be able to qualify for a car loan. If you require finance, please fill in our quick quote ASAP to get you on the road before time runs out.

Lets say I had 21 months left on my visa. Can my loan term go up to 21 months as well?

Good news is, doing an "odd" number month loan term is possible, however the rule of thumb is lenders will usually want the loan terminating 1 month before your visa expires. For this example, a lender will typically only go up to 20 months.

I just landed in Australia today. Can I qualify for a loan?

Yes! If you are on a skilled visa, have an employment contract ready to go, and you are in a skilled role, lenders can approve you on day 1 of landing in Australia. Just note most lenders will only settle your loan when it's your 1st day in your job (and the lender usually calls your employer to confirm this as well)

I'm not in Australia yet, however I have my flight booked and I'm coming over soon. Do I qualify?

The best thing you can do here is fill in the quick quote below to start your application, where one of our brokers can advise you up-front where you stand. The moment you land in Australia, we can submit your application and get you moving quickly. Just also note, the lender can approve you in Australia on day 1, but usually won't settle until it's your first day in your new job.

Financing a Car on a 485 Visa in Australia

Short answer: yes, some lenders will finance 485 visa holders, especially if you're working full-time in your field. The main limit is time: lenders usually want the loan to end before your visa does, so the length of your visa largely decides your loan term.

How long is a 485 visa?

The Temporary Graduate visa has different streams. As a guide, the Post-Higher Education Work stream generally runs for up to two years for bachelor's and coursework master's graduates, and up to three years for research master's and PhD graduates. The Post-Vocational Education Work stream is generally up to 18 months. Some graduates who've lived and studied regionally may be eligible for a second 485. Check your exact expiry on VEVO.

What lenders look at

  • Time left on your visa. With 18 months left, expect a loan term of roughly that length unless you can show a clear pathway to a longer visa or permanent residency.
  • Employment. A full-time role, ideally in the field you studied, with an Australian employer. Casual work is harder.
  • Your plans. An employer-sponsored or skilled visa application in progress can support a longer term.
  • Credit history. Many graduates have a thin Australian credit file. That's normal. A clean phone plan and bank account history help.
  • Deposit and car choice. A deposit and a sensibly priced car make approval easier and repayments manageable over a short term.

Documents to have ready

  • Passport, visa grant notice and a current VEVO check
  • Employment contract and recent payslips
  • Recent bank statements
  • Driver licence (check your overseas licence is valid in your state)
  • Evidence of any further visa application

Tips

  1. Short visa? Short loan, small car. The repayments on a two-year term are higher, so borrow what fits.
  2. Ask about early payout costs, in case you leave Australia or refinance after getting PR.
  3. Don't apply to several lenders at once. Use a broker to target visa-friendly lenders.

On a 485 and starting your career? Tell us your visa and job details in about 60 seconds and a licensed broker will call you. No credit check to enquire.

Check my eligibility

Related guides

General information only. This isn't financial or migration advice and doesn't take your personal circumstances into account. Visa settings change, so check with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent. Finance the Ride is a referral service and doesn't hold an Australian Credit Licence. Last reviewed September 2026.

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Have You Considered a Private Sale?

Private sales often mean better prices, more negotiating power, and a wider choice of cars — and yes, they can be financed just like a dealer vehicle. Many customers also find they can afford something newer or lower-km when buying privately. If you’ve found a great car from a private seller, we can help you get it approved quickly and safely.

All Your Questions Answered

What is a car loan and how does it work?

A car loan is a finance product where a lender provides funds for you to purchase a vehicle, which you repay over time with interest.

What’s the difference between secured and unsecured car loans?

Secured loans use the car as collateral, often leading to lower interest rates. Unsecured loans don’t, but usually have higher rates.

What loan terms are available for car finance?

Most car loans offer terms from 3 to 7 years. Find out what term suits you best.

How is interest calculated on a car loan?

Interest is based on the loan amount, term, and rate. Fixed-rate loans have predictable repayments, while variable rates can change.

Can I get a car loan for a private sale?

Yes, many lenders accept private sellers. You’ll need to provide extra documents.

Do government employees get lower interest rates on car loans?

Yes — many lenders offer better rates due to your stable income. Explore finance options for government employees.

Can I apply for a car loan while on probation?

Yes. Many workers are approved during probation.

What credit score do I need as a government employee?

A score of 650+ is ideal, but lower scores may still be considered.

Are corporate professionals eligible for low-rate finance?

Yes, especially if you're full-time with strong income.

Can I get car finance with a novated lease?

Yes, many government departments support novated leasing.

Can I get a car loan with no credit history?

Yes, it's still possible to get a car loan with no credit history.

What if I’ve been declined elsewhere?

A broker can help restructure your application for better results.

How do I check my credit score?

Use Equifax, Experian, or Illion for a free check.

Can I get finance if I have a current personal loan?

Yes, if your income supports both loans. A broker will assess your capacity.

What documents do I need to apply?

Typically: ID, payslips, and bank statements.

Can casual workers get car loans?

Yes, if you’ve worked consistently for 6+ months.

Can I apply if I’m self-employed with an ABN?

Yes. Consider a low-doc loan.

Can Centrelink be used as income?

Yes, when paired with PAYG income.

What’s the minimum income to qualify for car finance?

Most lenders prefer $30,000+ annually, but this varies.

Can I apply on a fixed-term contract?

Yes, especially if it’s government-backed.

Can I finance a used car?

Yes, most lenders allow used cars under 10 years old.

Can I get a loan for an SUV or family car?

Absolutely

Can I finance a caravan or motorbike?

Yes

Can I finance an EV or hybrid car?

Yes. You may even qualify for green car loan discounts.

Can I use my car for both work and personal use?

Yes you can.

What is a balloon payment?

It’s a lump sum due at the end of the loan term.

Can I make extra repayments?

Yes, many lenders allow this without penalty.

Can I pay off the loan early?

Yes — ask if there’s an early payout fee.

Is there a deposit required?

Not always.

What loan terms are available?

1 to 7 years is standard.

How long does approval take?

24–48 hours in most cases

Can I apply online?

Yes — most lenders and brokers accept online applications.

Is a broker better than going direct?

Often, yes. They can compare lenders for you.

Can I get pre-approved?

Yes — and it gives you better negotiating power at the dealership.

What happens after I apply?

Your documents are reviewed, and if approved, the lender issues funds to the seller.

Can I get a loan with a visa?

Yes, in some cases. see finance for visa holders here.

Do I need a driver’s licence to apply?

Yes, but learners may qualify with a co-applicant.

Can I apply with someone else?

Yes, joint applications are allowed.

Can I refinance my current car loan?

Yes — it can lower your repayments or get you a better rate.

Can I trade in my old car as a deposit?

Yes, many lenders accept trade-ins toward the deposit.

Can nurses get car finance?

Yes — see nurse-specific finance tips.

Can teachers apply while on contract?

Yes. Read how to get approved.

Do defence personnel get special car loan rates?

Yes, in some cases. Your job security is a major advantage.

Can FIFO government workers apply?

Yes — consistency in income matters more than job location.

Can I apply if I’m on maternity leave?

Yes, especially if you’re returning to work. Here’s how.

Can I use car finance to buy interstate?

Yes — just make sure the seller provides all required documents.

Can I finance a car from an auction?

Yes, but only through select lenders. Ask your broker first.

Will applying hurt my credit score?

Only if you apply to multiple lenders directly. Brokers help protect your score.

Can I get a car loan if I’ve been bankrupt before?

Yes — see bad credit car loan options.

What if I want to upgrade my car before the loan ends?

You can sell the car, pay off the loan early, or refinance.