westpac overseas travel

Westpac Global Currency Card

The Westpac Global Currency Card is a prepaid multi-currency travel card that will allow you to spend like a local when you’re travelling overseas or shopping online internationally.

✔ Manage it online, anytime ✔ Lock in exchange rates with up to 9 different currencies ~ ✔ No purchase fee, no monthly fees and no bank transfer load fees #

See how it works Get a card now

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~ The exchange rate for each Load/Reload is locked in at the prevailing exchange rate at the time of the transaction. Mastercard will notify customers via the website of the rate that will apply at the time they request the Load/Reload. # Other fees and limits apply.

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Westpac Complimentary Credit Card Insurance and COVID-19 (Coronavirus) FAQ

Information for westpac eligible cardholders regarding covid-19.

Information on this page is correct as of  30 June 2022 .

Stay up to date on Travel Information for COVID-19 from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)  Smartraveller  website and  World Health Organisation  (WHO) and  Department of Home Affairs .

Always consult the smartraveller.gov.au website prior to any travel. In addition to visas, COVID-19 testing, and proof of vaccination requirements, many countries now have compulsory insurance and medical cover proof conditions. Check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you are entering. If you require additional documentation regarding the complimentary international travel insurance policy due to international entry requirements, please contact us on 1800 091 710.

From 30 June 2022, if during the period of your cover, you (and your spouse/dependents, if they’re eligible for cover) are positively diagnosed as suffering a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic (such as COVID-19), cover may be available under the following sections:

• 1.1 Overseas Emergency Assistance
• 1.2 Overseas Emergency Medical
• 1.4 Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
• 2.1 Cancellation
• 3.1 Additional Expenses

If your travel companion is positively diagnosed as suffering a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic, such as COVID-19, which impacts your journey, cover may be available to you under the following sections: 

Note, you won’t be covered while travelling against advice or warnings issued by the Australian government and you did not take reasonable care to avoid contracting the sickness, for example by delaying travel to the country listed in a warning.

The above is a summary only, please refer to  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet   and  Westpac Business Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet  for eligibility criteria, full terms, conditions, limits and exclusions.

A General Exclusion for epidemic/pandemic applies for all claims relating to any epidemic/pandemic outside of the select benefits in the applicable policy information booklet  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet   and  Westpac Business Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet . Please note, terms, conditions, limits and exclusions apply.

To receive a formal outcome, Eligible Westpac Cardholders must submit a claim.

Eligible Westpac travellers who meet the eligibility criteria should be aware that other General Exclusions have the potential to apply.

What is a General Exclusion?

A General Exclusion is an exclusion which will be applied across all sections of an insurance policy, and applies regardless of when eligibility for cover was gained. Should a General Exclusion apply, this means that your complimentary credit card travel insurance excludes cover for the event, activities or circumstances (specified in the exclusion) that causes your claim.

To understand what is excluded from the Westpac Complimentary Insurance covers, please refer to Part D – Excesses & General Exclusions section and the section specific exclusions of the relevant Westpac Policy Information Booklet for which your eligible Westpac card is applicable under:  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet    and  Westpac Business Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet .

Other exclusions may apply depending upon the circumstances of an individual claim. General Exclusions include but are not limited to:

• by the Australian government (when a ‘Reconsider your need to travel’ or ‘Do not travel’ alert is in place), which can be found on  www.smartraveller.gov.au ; or
• which was published in a reliable mass media source.
• any interference with your travel plans by any government, government regulation or prohibition or intervention or official authority. For example, if  Smartraveller  has a warning, ‘Do not travel’ or ‘Reconsider your need to travel’ due to the risk of COVID-19 infection for a destination, and a cardholder chooses to ignore the warning and is infected with COVID-19, cover may be excluded. Or if a government closes its borders to inbound travellers due to COVID-19 and you are unable to enter and follow your planned travel across the closed border, cover may be excluded.

What if a Westpac Eligible Cardholder has booked travel and needs to cancel due to contracting COVID-19?

If you are unable to travel as a result of contracting COVID-19, Cancellation cover may be provided to eligible travellers, if you or your travel companion are positively diagnosed as suffering a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic such as COVID-19, and cover is expressly included under the Cancellation section of the relevant Westpac Policy Information Booklet for which your eligible Westpac card is applicable under:  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet   and  Westpac Business Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet . If you are unable to travel as a result of an Epidemic or Pandemic related event which does not include you or your travel companion being positively diagnosed as suffering a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic, for example a border closure, there may be no provision to claim as a general exclusion for epidemic and pandemic applies. A General Exclusion for epidemic/pandemic applies for all claims relating to any epidemic/pandemic outside of the cancellation benefits in the applicable policy information booklet. Please note, terms, conditions, limits and exclusions apply.

You therefore need to consider your own personal circumstances. We are not able to provide you with a cover decision before submitting a claim. To receive a formal outcome, Westpac Eligible Cardholders must submit a claim.

You should also contact your travel agent or travel service provider (airline, cruise line or Tour Company, etc) as they may be able to support you in obtaining refunds, credits or travel re-scheduling.

Can Westpac Eligible Cardholders make a claim for consideration?

Every Westpac Eligible Cardholder can submit a claim and have their individual circumstances considered in accordance with the eligibility criteria which includes the terms, conditions, limits and exclusions that apply as set out in the  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet    and  Westpac Business Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet .

If you would like to claim, we encourage you to claim online via  insurance.agaassistance.com.au/westpac

Call the Allianz Global Assistance Claims team

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Travel money cards with the lowest fees

We look at seven travel money cards from the big banks and airlines..

Prepaid travel money cards are offered by major banks, airlines and foreign exchange retailers like Travelex. Before travelling overseas, you load money into the card account, which locks in the exchange rate for foreign currencies at that time. 

You can then use the card for purchases and cash withdrawals just like a debit or credit card, usually wherever Visa and Mastercard are accepted. 

You can reload money on-the-go via an app or website, and if the card is lost or stolen, it can be replaced (usually at no cost to you).

Prepaid travel money cards also give you assurance that you're not handing the details of your everyday banking account to merchants you're not familiar with, and they provide easy access to cash when you want some, says Peter Marshall, head of research at money comparison website Mozo .

CHOICE tip: Travel money cards are best for longer trips. They're usually not worth your while if you're only taking a short trip, as some have closure, cash out and inactivity fees.

Travel money card fees

A major difference between prepaid travel cards and debit or credit cards is their fees. Some costs aren't immediately apparent, such as hefty margins built into the exchange rates.

And although fees have come down since we looked at these cards two years ago, you still need to watch out for:

• fees to load the card – either a percentage of the total or a flat fee
• ATM withdrawal fees
• a cross currency fee or margin when you use the card in a currency you haven't preloaded
• further fees if you close the account or haven't used the card for a period of time.

Travel money card with the lowest fees and best exchange rate

Westpac worldwide wallet.

Westpac closed its Global Currency Card in July 2021 and offers its new card in partnership with Mastercard.  It's also available from Bank of Melbourne and BankSA.

Currencies: AUD, USD, NZD, EUR, GBP, SGD, THB, JPY, HKD, CAD, ZAR.

Key features:

• No loading, reloading, closing or inactivity fees.
• Free to use it in network ATMs in Australia and partner ATMs overseas in a range of countries including the UK, US and New Zealand.
• A charge applies at non-Westpac and non-partner ATMs in Australia and overseas.
• Best exchange rates for the US dollar, the Euro and GBP in our comparison.*
• The only card that lets you preload the South African rand.

Other travel money cards

Next to the Westpac Worldwide Wallet, there are six other travel money cards available.

Australia Post Travel Platinum Mastercard

Available online or at post offices.

Currencies : AUD, USD, NZD, EUR, GBP, SGD, THB, JPY, HKD, CAD, AED.

• Fee to reload the card via BPay, debit card or instore, but free via online bank transfer.
• Closure fee.
• Fees for ATM withdrawals in Australia and overseas.

Cash Passport Platinum Mastercard

It's issued by Heritage Bank and is available online and from a number of smaller banks and credit unions (like Bendigo Bank and Bank of Queensland) as well as travel agents. 

• Fee to reload with a debit card or instore, but free via BPay.

CommBank Travel Money Card

CommBank Travel Money Card (Visa)

As NAB and ANZ have closed their travel money cards, this is the only other travel money card available from a major bank. This card has the largest variety of currencies that can be preloaded.

Currencies : AUD, USD, NZD, EUR, GBP, SGD, THB, JPY, HKD, CAD, AED, VND, CNY.

• Fee if you make a purchase with currencies not preloaded.
• Fee for withdrawals at overseas ATMs.

Qantas Travel Money Card

Qantas Travel Money Card (Mastercard)

The only travel money card offering from an airline. It can be added as a feature to your Qantas Frequent Flyer card, so you don't need a dedicated card, and you can earn points using it.

• Free to reload via bank transfer or BPay, but there's a reload fee if using debit card.

Travelex Money Card

Travelex Money Card (Mastercard)

Travelex is an international foreign exchange retailer. In Australia, it operates more than 140 stores at major airports and shopping centres, across CBDs and in the suburbs. It was the card with the best exchange rate for New Zealand dollars.*

Currencies : AUD, USD, NZD, EUR, GBP, SGD, THB, JPY, HKD, CAD.

Fees : 

• Load fee instore, but free via Travelex website or app.
• Reload fee instore or via BPay, but free via Travelex website or app.
• Closure fee and monthly inactivity fee (if not used for 12 months).

Travel Money Oz Currency Pass

Travel Money Oz Currency Pass (Mastercard)

The Travel Money Group is owned by Flight Centre and is a foreign exchange retailer. 

• Reloading the card via an online bank transfer or instore is free, but there's a fee if you reload via BPay, debit card or credit card. 
• Cash out (closure) fee. 

Travel money card tips

• Make sure the card allows the currencies you'll need, and also consider stopovers. For example, the South African rand is only supported by the Westpac card.
• Try to load your card with the right currencies and amounts on days with good exchange rates. 
• Make sure you know how to reload your card if you run out of funds while overseas.
• It may be more convenient to choose a card that has an app that can be linked to your bank account.
• Avoid loading more money than you'll need as there may be fees and exchange rate margins to get the unused money back.
• Remember to cancel the card once you're finished your trip, especially if it has inactivity fees.
• Be mindful that you still may need a credit card, as travel money cards may not be accepted as security for hotels and car rental agencies. 

Stock images:  Getty, unless otherwise stated.

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Welcome to Altitude Rewards

Our credit card rewards program let’s you earn Altitude Reward points on everyday eligible purchases to redeem for our extensive range of offers from gift cards, cash back, with partner airlines or at our online store.

Not only do you get the choice on how you use your points, you’ll earn even more of them when you shop with our select partners. The best thing is, your points won’t expire while you’re an Altitude cardholder, giving you all the time you need to redeem.

Whether Platinum or Black, there’s plenty more to love beyond points and rewards. Scroll down to take a look.

A more rewarding program

Redeem from our large selection of digital cards for those everyday purchases such as fuel, groceries, technology, housewares and fashion 1 . Find out more

Use your points to book your next adventure. Find out more

Frequent Flyer

Transfer your Altitude Points to one of our airline partners 2 . Find out more

If you can't decide, you can redeem your points for cashback to your account 1 . Find out more

Merchandise

Browse hundreds of products from tech to homewares. Find out more

Earn up to 6 points per $1 with our Accelerated Earn Partners 3

Explore our Altitude Rewards cards

Altitude Platinum

Earn up to 3 points per dollar spent with the Altitude Rewards Platinum card

Altitude Black

Earn up to 6 points per dollar spent with the Altitude Rewards Black card

More than reward points

Complimentary insurance covers 6

Complimentary insurance covers for overseas travel, extended warranty, purchase security transit accidents are subject to the terms and conditions set out in the Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy.

Personal Concierge Service

Exclusive to Westpac Altitude Black cardholders, the Personal Concierge Service 4 lets you browse and book experiences online, including hard-to-get tickets, last-minute restaurant bookings and more.

Extra Airport Lounge benefits

Including two complimentary Priority Pass airport lounge passes each year, one of which you can share with your travel companion 5 . See FAQs on how to redeem.

Ready to redeem?

Sign in to Westpac Online Banking or call 1300 887 820

Start earning rewards

Find out more

Things you should know

• Altitude Rewards Terms and Conditions
• Altitude Business Rewards Terms and Conditions
• Online Banking Terms and Conditions

The products and items available for redemption via this page are subject to change in points and availability.

This information is general in nature and has been prepared without taking your objectives, needs and overall financial situation into account. For this reason, you should consider the appropriateness of the information to your own circumstances and, if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice

Conditions, credit criteria and fees and charges apply, credit provided by Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credit licence 233714.

You need to register for Westpac Online Banking and/or the Westpac Mobile Banking App in order to use Online or Mobile Banking. Read the Online Banking Terms and Conditions.

1. The earning and redemption of Altitude Points is subject to the Altitude Rewards Terms and Conditions or Altitude Business Rewards Terms and Conditions. The terms and conditions outline which purchases are eligible for points and the circumstances when you will not earn points, including when your account is overdue. Any unclaimed Rewards Points will expire 90 days from the day the account is closed. Eligible purchases do not include interest, fees and charges, cash or ATM cash advances, cash equivalent transactions, gambling transactions, a purchase from or payment to a local, state or federal government or government related agency, BPAY or similar transactions (such as Post Billpay), refunds and balance transfers debited from the card account.

2. You must be a member of the relevant frequent flyer program to redeem Altitude Points for frequent flyer points and a joining fee may apply. The Altitude Terms and Conditions or the Altitude Business Rewards Terms and Conditions and relevant frequent flyer program terms and conditions apply. Reward flights may be limited and points may be subject to expiry once transferred.

3. Accelerated Earn - Flights: Earn 6 points per dollar on the first $10,000 spent on flights per calendar month, then 1.25 points per $1 spent thereafter on the Altitude Black Mastercard. Or earn 3 points per dollar on the first $10,000 on flights per calendar month, then 1 point per $1 spent thereafter on the Altitude Platinum Mastercard. Points earn applies to flights purchased in Australia directly with the above listed participating airlines using your Altitude Black Mastercard or Altitude Platinum Mastercard. Excludes flights not purchased directly with the participating airlines for example flights purchased through a travel agent, online aggregators or other airlines such as a code-share etc. Excludes Altitude Qantas, Altitude Velocity and Visa Altitude cards. Participating airlines are subject to change.

4. Concierge Services for Altitude Black. Concierge services are provided by a third party supplier. For further details including terms and conditions visit westpac.tenconcierge.com

5. Complimentary lounge passes disclaimers: Priority Pass Membership: Available to Westpac Altitude Black primary cardholders earning Altitude Points through the Altitude Rewards program. Requires enrolment through prioritypass.com/westpacblack. The Primary Cardholder receives two complimentary visits in any 12-month period, one of which may be used by an accompanying guest. Subsequent visits in the 12-month period incur an additional cost, currently US$32 per person, per visit, which will be automatically charged to the primary cardholder's Altitude Black card. A Foreign Transaction Fee will apply to the conversion amount. Unused visits expire and cannot be carried forward to any subsequent year. Visit the Contact Us page on www.prioritypass.com for enquiries about the Priority Pass program. Subject to the Priority Pass Conditions Of Use.

6. Complimentary insurance covers: AWP Australia Pty Ltd ABN 52 097 227 177 AFSL 245631 (trading as Allianz Global Assistance) under a binder from the insurer, Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 850 AFSL 234708 has issued an insurance group policy to Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credit licence 233714 (Westpac) which allows eligible Westpac cardholders to claim under it as third party beneficiaries. Any advice on insurance is general advice only and not based on any consideration of your objectives, financial situation or needs. The terms, conditions, limits and exclusions of the group policy are set out in the Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy (PDF 6MB) which may be amended from time to time. Westpac does not guarantee this insurance.

Altitude Travel is operated by Mastercard Travel Solutions Australia Pty Ltd. ABN 70 003 745 999 and subject to the Altitude Travel Terms and Conditions .

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Westpac credit card complimentary travel insurance

A westpac credit card with travel insurance offers you cover for overseas or interstate trips – here’s how it works..

In this guide

Which Westpac credit cards have complimentary travel insurance?

• What’s covered by Westpac complimentary international travel insurance?
• What do I need to do to use Westpac’s credit card international travel insurance?

Pre-existing medical conditions

How to make a claim through your westpac credit card complimentary international travel insurance policy, other types of westpac complimentary credit card travel insurance, westpac credit card complimentary insurance for shopping, westpac business credit card complimentary insurance options, frequently asked questions.

Westpac offers complimentary travel insurance on its platinum and black credit cards, with policies that cover domestic and international trips. Some Westpac cards also offer complimentary insurance for eligible items you buy.

These insurance policies are underwritten by Allianz Australia Insurance Limited (Allianz). Just like any insurance, there are conditions you need to meet to get cover and make a claim. That's why it's always best to read the policy document. But if you're after a snapshot, we cover some of the key details about Westpac cards that offer cover, the type of cover available and when you'll get it.

Have a question or need to make a claim right now? Call Allianz Global Assistance on 1800 091 710 (Australia) or +61 7 3305 7468 (overseas).

If you don't have a Westpac credit card yet, you can get complimentary travel insurance with a new platinum or black credit card. The length of cover you get depends on the card, as we’ve shown in the table.

What this shows is that Westpac’s complimentary international travel insurance for Altitude Platinum and Black cards is separated into Level 1 and Level 2 categories. The key difference between these levels is the length of cover: you get up to 3 months with an Altitude Platinum card and up to 6 months with an Altitude Black card.

If you have a Westpac business credit card, check the complimentary insurance details here .

Have a Westpac credit card that’s not on this list? Check the terms and conditions available on the Westpac website to see if your card is eligible.

What’s covered by Westpac complimentary international travel insurance?

Westpac’s complimentary international travel insurance includes cover for luggage, cancellation and emergency medical, with some options for COVID-19. The insurance is broken down into “benefits” based on what you can and can’t claim. Some claims also have an excess charge if your claim is approved, which you need to pay before you’ll get any money back.

To help you understand the cover available, we’ve put the key options for different types of claims into tables, with basic examples of when you might use the cover. But remember: you should always read the insurance policy booklet for complete details of the cover.

Medical, dental and emergencies cover with a Westpac credit card

Westpac complimentary international travel insurance for cancellation, delays and transport, luggage and personal items cover offered with westpac credit card complimentary insurance, hijacking, kidnap and personal liability cover offered with westpac complimentary credit card travel insurance, westpac credit card complimentary international travel insurance for death and funerals, westpac complimentary international travel insurance and covid-19.

From 30 June 2022, Westpac’s complimentary international travel insurance includes details of when you can make claims related to COVID-19 and other known pandemics and epidemics. This includes for:

• Overseas emergency assistance
• Overseas emergency medical
• Medical evacuation and repatriation
• Cancellation
• Additional expenses

To make a claim, you need to be positively diagnosed with COVID-19 (or another pandemic/epidemic disease) and meet all the other requirements for a claim. It also applies if a travel companion is positively diagnosed – but won’t apply if you’re travelling against government advice or if the mass media have published details of advice or warnings against travel.

As there are specific conditions to meet for this type of cover, make sure you read the amended policy booklet or call Allianz on 1800 091 710 before you travel.

What's not covered?

Every insurance policy has details of when you will and won’t get cover. These details can be very specific, which is why it is important to always check your insurance policy documents.

To give you an idea, here are some of the key things you won’t be covered for with Westpac credit card complimentary international travel insurance:

• Any act of war
• Issues that come up because of alcohol or non-prescription drugs
• Travel that’s for the purpose of medical treatment
• If you’re over 81 or anyone relating to a claim is over 81
• Changes to your plans due to regulations, prohibitions or intervention from a government or official body, including if details have been published in the mass media
• If you or your partner gives birth during the trip (except if it’s due to injury or sickness)
• Dangerous activities including rock climbing (with equipment), white water rafting, bungy jumping, off-piste snowboarding or skiing and quad or motorbike riding on a vehicle that has an engine capacity of 200cc or more

Keep in mind that countries and regions around the world currently have different restrictions and guidelines around the coronavirus pandemic. These can change, so it’s worth checking where you can travel before booking anything.

Want cover for COVID-19? Here’s what you need to know . And if you need cover for a skiing trip, bungy jumping or other overseas adventures, check out adventure sport travel insurance costs and conditions.

What do I need to do to use Westpac’s credit card international travel insurance?

To get international travel insurance cover through your Westpac Altitude Platinum or Black credit card, you’ll need to meet the following requirements:

• Travel bookings. You need to use your eligible Westpac credit card to pay for at least $500 of your travel expenses before the start of the trip. You also need a return ticket. An easy way to meet these requirements is to use your card to pay for your overseas flights.
• Australian residency. You must live in Australia and start and end your trip in Australia.
• Age. You’ll be covered if you’re under 81 years of age. If you’re over 81 and want overseas travel insurance, there are some policies you can buy that give you cover up to the age of 100 .

Does Westpac credit card travel insurance cover family members?

Yes, if you meet the eligibility requirements for cover on an upcoming trip, your spouse and dependants (i.e. children) can get cover under this policy when they’re travelling with you for at least half of your trip and meet the following requirements:

• They need to live in Australia and start and end their journey in Australia
• They need to have a return travel booking before they leave
• At least $500 of their travel costs need to be paid for with your Westpac credit card before the start of the trip
• They need to be under 81 years of age at the time they become eligible for the insurance
• They also need to meet the same age requirements and other conditions of the insurance policy

This complimentary international travel insurance only covers a few pre-existing medical conditions, with very specific requirements. Here, we’ve summarised the key details for conditions that are covered. If you have any pre-existing condition, you should also look at the insurance document for full details or call Allianz on 1800 091 710.

🔥 Hot tip: The easiest way to find details in the insurance policy booklet is to open your digital copy and use the find tool (Ctrl+F or Cmd+F) to search for the terms (e.g. “Pre-existing medical conditions”).

What if I don’t meet the requirements or have a different pre-existing condition?

If you’re not sure whether your pre-existing medical condition will be covered, call Allianz on 1800 091 710 to check if you can get cover.

You can then apply to have an assessment of the condition over the phone or online at www.checkyourcover.com.au/westpac . The assessment costs $75 over the phone and $45 online. If you’re successful, you’ll get written confirmation from Allianz that your condition is covered.

But if you have pre-existing conditions that aren’t covered, you won’t be able to make a related claim if you've previously seen a doctor or other qualified professional about a condition that ends up causing issues overseas. It's the same for any physical, medical, mental or dental condition that you’re aware of before you travel.

Need cover for a pre-existing health condition? Check out travel insurance policies that offer cover for conditions including high blood pressure, high cholesterol and physical disabilities.

Pre-existing medical condition definition for Westpac credit card insurance

Travel insurance policies all have specific ways of looking at pre-existing medical conditions, so it’s really important you’re aware of the actual definition they use.

As well as the summary above, we have included the definition that’s in the current Westpac card insurance policy document, effective from 27 October 2021 (page 23):

“A condition of which a reasonable person in the circumstances, should have been aware at the time eligibility for the cover available was met, including:

• Any dental condition; or
• Any physical condition; or
• Pregnancy; or
• Any lifelong illness; or
• Any chronic illness; or
• Any mental illness; or
• Any current or previously treated cancer, or

Any condition which, in the last two (2) years:

• Was treated by surgery (including day surgery); or
• Required regular medication; or
• Required on-going treatment; or
• Was referred to a specialist medical adviser; or
• Had regular reviews or check-ups; or
• Caused admission to hospital; or
• Was treated at a hospital emergency department or out-patient clinic”

As soon as you think you’ll need to make a claim, contact Allianz Global Assistance so that they can give you specific information.

You can do this overseas by calling the emergency assistance number on +61 7 3305 7468 or in Australia by calling 1800 091 710. You can also email [email protected] but may have to wait longer for a response.`

There are 2 main ways you can submit your claim:

You will hear back about your claim within 10 business days, according to the online claims website.

What to include in your claim

Aim to include as much detail and supporting documentation as possible. It makes it easier for the insurer to look at the claim and your eligibility for a payout.

So when you're travelling with this cover, try to get as much written or photo evidence as you can for any claim you need to make. This could include the following:

• A referral or letter from a doctor or other professional you see in relation to a claim
• Official medical reports
• Police reports
• Photos of damaged items
• Emails or letters from airlines that relate to a claim
• Receipts or other proof of purchase

When you fill in the online claim form, you’ll also be asked for some key personal details, including part of your Westpac credit card number (to confirm you’re eligible for cover).

Overseas transit accident insurance

• What is it? Cover for accidents that happen when you're travelling overseas on a plane, train, cruise ship, bus or other eligible vehicle. You also get cover for related accidents that happen when you're boarding or leaving the transport.
• When can I use it? If you have paid for the entire trip with your eligible Westpac credit card before you leave. If your partner or dependants are travelling with you for the whole trip, they'll also get cover.
• Is there an excess cost? No, you don't need to pay an excess for any claims but there are limits to how much you can get paid out. For example, the loss of one hand or foot has a maximum benefit of $250,000.

Interstate flight inconvenience insurance

• What is it? Cover for specific issues that come up when you're travelling to a different state or territory in Australia. This can include costs relating to cancelled return flights, flight delays of 4 hours or more, delayed or lost luggage and funeral expenses.
• When can I use it? You’ll get cover for up to 14 days in a row if you have paid for the entire trip with your eligible Westpac credit card. Your spouse and any dependants can also get cover when you have used your Westpac card to pay for their return travel and they will be with you for at least half the trip.
• Is there an excess cost? There is a $300 excess for claims that relate to cancellation or luggage (except for delayed luggage). There are no excess costs for other claims but there are maximum claim amounts, which vary depending on the type of claim.

Rental vehicle excess in Australia insurance

• What is it? Cover for damage or theft of a car or other vehicle you have hired in Australia, up to a maximum of $5,500 (or less if the amount specified in your rental vehicle agreement is lower).
• When can I use it? If you have paid for the vehicle hire with your eligible Westpac credit card and the vehicle hire agreement lists an excess cost.
• Is there an excess cost? There is a $300 excess for each claim you submit.

How to make a claim under one of these policies

Westpac credit cards give you access to other types of insurance, which are also provided by Allianz. Below is a snapshot of the different types.

Purchase protection insurance

• What is it? Cover for the cost of a new item that is stolen, accidentally damaged or lost. It covers most household and personal items such as laptops, shoes, jewellery and glasses. Exclusions include second-hand items, perishables, cash, computer software, vehicles and items you’ve accidentally left in a hotel after checking out.
• When can I use it? If you use your eligible Westpac credit card to pay for covered items, this insurance will apply for the first 4 months from when you get them. This cover is available for personal items bought anywhere in the world, including gifts if the person they are given to is a permanent Australian resident.
• How can I make a claim? You need to show proof that you own the item and report the loss, theft or damage to the local police or relevant authorities (such as the office of a transport company). Ideally, you should get written confirmation of this report. Then, call Allianz on 1800 091 710 or submit your claim through the Allianz online claim portal.
• Is there an excess cost? An excess of $300 per claim applies. There are also maximum claim amounts, which vary depending on the item, with a yearly maximum of $135,000 for all claims.

Extended warranty insurance

• What is it? Cover that doubles the manufacturer's warranty for items bought in Australia, up to a maximum period of 2 years. For example, if you bought a laptop with a 12-month manufacturer's warranty and it stopped working for no reason after 12 months, you could make a claim under this cover.
• When can I use it? If you used your eligible Westpac credit card to pay for an item worth up to $20,000 and it came with an Australian manufacturer’s warranty of between 7 days and 5 years. You can make a claim if something happens after the original warranty period has ended.
• How can I make a claim? Call Allianz on 1800 091 710 or submit your claim through the Allianz online claim portal at https://claims.agaassistance.com.au/ .
• Is there an excess cost? An excess of $300 per claim applies. There are also maximum claim amounts, which vary depending on the item.

Don’t have complimentary insurance on your credit card yet? Compare Westpac credit cards or check out other cards that offer insurance .

All Westpac business credit cards offer complimentary unauthorised transaction insurance to help protect you if an additional cardholder uses the account for something that's not allowed.

You can also get complimentary insurance for travel and shopping depending on the Westpac business credit card you choose. Here’s a look at your options:

Want a credit card for your business? Compare a wide range of cards that offer insurance, rewards and other perks.

Does Westpac credit card international travel insurance cover coronavirus?

Yes, this complimentary international travel insurance does offer some cover related to COVID-19 including overseas emergency medical and cancellation cover. To make a claim, you or a travel companion need to be positively diagnosed as suffering from COVID-19 and not be travelling against official advice or warnings.

This cover also applies for other known pandemics and epidemics. But as claim requirements are very specific, make sure you read the insurance policy booklet for full details.

Finder also has a whole guide covering questions about this pandemic and travel insurance .

Can I get proof of my cover?

Yes. If you’re going on a cruise or tour that requires proof of insurance, you can get a letter of eligibility online by visiting http://www.checkyourcover.com.au/westpac and providing your details. This includes some information about your Westpac credit card to confirm you're eligible for cover.

Amy Bradney-George

Amy Bradney-George was the senior writer for credit cards at Finder, and editorial lead for Finder Green. She has over 16 years of editorial experience and has been featured in publications including ABC News, Money Magazine and The Sydney Morning Herald. See full profile

More guides on Finder

This 0% interest credit card from Westpac offers a $1,000 limit and a flat monthly fee that can be waived – plus you can use it as soon as you’re approved.

A no-frills card offering up to $350 back when you meet the spend requirement and a 13.74% p.a. interest rate on purchases.

A premium credit card offering up to 120,000 bonus Velocity Points, uncapped rewards points and complimentary insurance covers.

This platinum credit card offers up to 80,000 bonus Velocity points, uncapped points potential, a discounted first-year annual fee and complimentary insurance covers.

The Westpac Altitude Qantas Black Card boasts bonus points, a competitive earn rate as well as travel perks and extra features.

Compare the low-cost, simple features of the Westpac Lite Credit Card, including a 9.90% p.a. interest rate for purchases, no foreign transaction fees and Westpac Extras.

Offers $0 annual fee in the first year and in the following years when you meet the spend requirement.

This black rewards credit card is packed with perks including uncapped points per $1 spent, airport lounge passes, complimentary travel insurance and up to 150,000 bonus points offer.

The Westpac BusinessChoice Rewards Platinum offers Qantas Points on business spending, including ATO payments – here's how its other features add up.

This platinum rewards card comes with up to 120,000 bonus points offer and complimentary insurance for domestic and overseas travel. Is it worth it for you?

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179 Responses

Would my x3 dependent’s (2,4,5YO) be covered under this with my Westpac Altitude Platinum credit card?

Hi Natalie,

Yes, generally your spouse and children are covered under your travel insurance policy, provided you are all travelling on the same itinerary. Westpac’s PDS confirms: “We insure Westpac cardholders, their spouses and their dependent child/children up to and including 80 years of age.”

I tried to get a pre approval for my 6 day Royal Caribbean Cruise to Airlie Beach & Cairns. I was required to enter the trip destination.

I was advised to state Pacific waters around Australia. This destination is not accepted. How do I progress with getting pre approval? Am I covered? I would also like to check pre existing conditions as I had a heart attack 14 years ago. I am all good and have no issues

Hi Dudley, You may want to call Allianz, the insurance provider, directly on 1800 091 710 to find out what cover would be available for this trip, as there are specific definitions for what is considered “overseas” (including in relation to cruises). If you have not booked your trip yet, calling Allianz may provide more clarity. I hope this helps.

Does westpac zero platinum Mastercard cover you for travel insurance on cruises.

Hi Mary, Some cover may be available if the cruise is a foreign-registered vessel and you meet the eligibility requirements outlined in the policy booklet. You can check your eligibility and cover by calling the insurance provider, Allianz Global Assistance on 1800 091 710. Or by visiting https://travel.agaassistance.com.au/westpac/travel-insurance and providing some basic details for your Westpac credit card. I hope this helps.

If westpack credit card insurance cover domestic cruise ?

Hi Jenny, International travel insurance cover may be available when you are on a foreign registered cruise vessel in Australian territorial waters, based on the policy document’s definition of “overseas”. You can also check your cover by contacting the insurance provider, Allianz, on 1800 091 710 or by visiting https://travel.agaassistance.com.au/westpac/travel-insurance . I hope this helps.

Is the complimentary WBC travel insurance applicable if additional card holder travel on their own?

This requirement is not listed in the policy insurance booklet for cardholder’s eligibility for cover.

I hope this helps,

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Insurance cover with your credit card.

You could enjoy insurance cover for overseas travel and for your purchases when you have a Westpac Platinum or World Mastercard. Here’s how it works.

Insurance that comes with your card.

Overseas travel insurance.

Cover for things like medical expenses, emergency accommodation or lost luggage when you’re travelling overseas – when you’ve paid for the travel with your card.

C heck the terms and conditions of coverage   and eligibility   before you   book your   trip.   

Extended warranty

Extends the warranty on goods purchased with your card, for up to 12 months.

Purchase protection

Protects against loss, theft or accidental damage over most personal items that you purchase with your card.

Compare card insurance benefits.

Make sure you’re covered..

It’s a good idea to check the eligibility criteria within the policy document for your particular Westpac credit card, to check when your travel and purchases may be covered.

See the policy documents for relevant Westpac credit cards.

Traveling abroad?

Here’s what to do prior to departure, for each and every trip:

• Read your policy carefully prior to making travel arrangements.
• Confirm your eligibility at:  travelactivate.co.nz   and apply for any optional extensions such as pre-existing medical conditions, snow cover etc (additional costs may be incurred). 
• Have all your insurance documents accessible while you’re away.
• In case of emergency, or if you require medical attention while overseas, call +64 9 359 1624 for Travel Guard.
• To make a claim please visit  travelactivate.co.nz/help-support/claims

Need emergency assistance?

Things you should know..

Terms, conditions, exclusions and eligibility criteria apply [Insurance policy documents available via links above on this page], including a minimum spend for certain travel regions. Travel, Extended Warranty and Purchase Protection Insurances arranged by Westpac and underwritten by AIG Insurance New Zealand Limited. Westpac does not guarantee the obligations of, or any products issued by, AIG.

Eligibility criteria, lending criteria, terms and conditions apply.  for the applicable card  apply .   Conditions of Use for the applicable card apply. Rates, Transaction and Services Fees apply. 

Mastercard is a registered trade mark and the circles design is a trade mark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

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Best Travel Cards for Australians Heading Overseas in 2024

We compare the best travel money cards including prepaid cards, debit cards and credit cards. Whether you want ease of access to money at any cost or no-frills or fees cash, find the best money solution when you travel overseas.

Wise - our pick for travel card

• No annual fee, hidden transaction fees, no exchange rate markups
• No minimum balance requirements
• Allows you to make payments and withdrawals wherever you are in the world in over 40 currencies
• Local bank account details in Australia (AUD), the UK (GBP), the USA (USD), Europe (EUR), Canada (CAD) and New Zealand (NZD)
• Available in the US, UK, Europe, Australia, Singapore, Japan and New Zealand

Find out more about the Wise card .

With this card:

• It's very easy to set up and order
• You can receive foreign currency into a multi-currency account linked to the card
• Pay with your Wise card in most places overseas where debit cards are accepted
• Get the mid-market rate for currency conversion

Go to Wise  or read our  review .

It's not all good news though

• There is a 2% ATM withdrawal fee when you withdraw over $350 during a month
• It takes 7-14 days for delivery

How do I pick the best travel card for me?

Fed up with ATM charges when you travel overseas? Or running out of money when you need it the most? You probably brought the wrong card with you.

It can be tricky to choose the best travel card to use when you travel overseas. The best one for you will really depend on what you need from the card you're using.

You will generally use travel cards to make purchases online, in-stores and to withdraw money at ATMs. All travel cards have these basic capabilities. This means what you should really compare between travel cards are the following:

Exchange Rates and Fees

Compare exchange rates and fees

Conditions and limits

Spending conditions and max/min limits

Make sure your money is secure

Best Travel Cards for Australians Travelling Overseas

Wise is our pick for travel debit card.

• You can transfer money to a bank account overseas
• Currency conversion using the mid-market exchange rate

Click here to see the full list of cards and how Wise compares

Read the full review

• No annual fee, hidden transaction fees, exchange rate markups
• Local bank account details in Australia (AUD), the UK (GBP), the USA (USD), Europe (EUR) and New Zealand (NZD)
• It takes 7-14 business days to receive the card
• Can't always access local technical support depending on where you are
• Free cash withdrawals limited to under $350 every 30 days
• Only currently available in the US, UK, Europe, Australia and New Zealand

Revolut - multi-currency travel card

• No purchase fee, load fee, reload fee, exchange rate margin or minimum balance requirements
• Unlike other Travel Cards, its free and easy to use the balance of your currency or convert it back to AUD
• Mid-market exchange rate, they add a mark-up for currency conversion during weekends
• For the free Standard account, there is a 2% ATM withdrawal fee when you withdraw over $350 during a month
• The premium account costs $10.99 a month, which can really add up if you are not using it often

Click here to see the full list of cards and how Revolut compares

• Very easy to use app
• Free to set up
• No hidden fees or exchange rate mark-ups (except on weekends)
• You can use it to transfer money to a bank account overseas
• Additional fees for using the card on a weekend
• 2% ATM fee once you withdraw more than $350 in any 30 day period
• 3-4 business days before you receive your card
• Ongoing subscription fee for Premium and Metal cards

Citibank Saver Plus - bank travel card

The Citibank Plus Everyday Account - bank debit card. With this card you can:

• withdraw money for free at over 3000 ATMs Australia-wide and overseas
• take advantage of no foreign transaction fees, monthly fees, or minimum opening balance
• transfer money to friends and family anywhere in the world for free

We think this is the ideal debit card whether you're staying local in Oz or travelling to destinations in Asia or Europe.

• No international ATM or transaction fees
• Fee-free international money transfers to any account worldwide
• SMS notifications through Citi Alert
• Cash deposits available within 24-48 hours
• Can't have two cards active at the same time
• $5 account closure

28 Degrees Platinum Mastercard - travel credit card

28 Degrees Platinum Mastercard - travel credit card. With this card:

• There are no annual fees
• No overseas purchase fee or currency conversion fee
• You get 55 days interest free on purchases
• Access to free 24/7 concierge service
• Emergency card replacement worldwide

The 28 Degrees Platinum Mastercard has additional benefits including shoppers and repayments benefits cover. For more information read our review .

• Can have 9 additional cardholders
• No overseas purchase fee, or currency conversion fee
• No foreign transaction fee
• Free Replacement Card
• High interest rates after the initial 55 days
• Minimum credit limit is $6000
• No introductory offers or rewards

Learn more about the 28 Degrees Platinum Mastercard

Travelex money card - prepaid travel card.

Travelex Money Card - prepaid travel card. With this card:

• There are no ATM fees so you can withdraw cash at no extra cost
• You can access Travelex's online rates
• You can lock in your initial loading cross currency rate
• Ideal for the organised traveller.
• Can load up to 10 currencies including AUD, USD, EUR, GBP, NZD, CAD, THB, SGB, HKD and JPY.
• Smartphone App & Free Wifi Cross
• $0 overseas ATM fees (Australia excluded)
• 24/7 Global Support
• Limited Currencies
• 5.95% currency conversion rate
• $100 minimum initial load
• 2.95% Australian ATM withdrawal fee

Learn more about the Travelex Money Card

What are the other travel card options.

Check our travel card comparison table for a comprehensive list of fees and features for different travel debit and credit cards available for Australians travelling overseas.

*ATM operators will often charge their own fees.

** Up to 5 ATM fees and unlimited currency conversion costs may be rebated if you deposit $1,000 and make 5 purchases per month.

***Account fee waived if you meet eligibility criteria, including depositing $2,000 per month

What are the different types of travel card in Australia?

There are 3 popular travel cards you can take with you on your trip:

Prepaid Travel Card

Travel Debit Cards

Travel Credit Card

1. Prepaid Travel Card

For prepaid travel cards, you're able to load the card with a set amount of money in the currencies you need. Ideally you do this before your trip, but often you can reload them as well.

Most prepaid travel cards allow for multiple currencies to be loaded onto the card. So it's important to know what currency you'll be using on your travels. Airlines also offer prepaid cards so the money you spend can earn you reward points.

With prepaid travel cards you need to be careful, as they can have numerous fees and charges which can make it more expensive than other options. But if you're organised and travelling to multiple cities a prepaid travel card is a good option. Read more of how to find the best travel card with no foreign transaction fees .

If you need more flexibility or you don't want to pay the multiple fees associated with prepaid travel cards, the HSBC and Citibank global accounts are better options.

• Exchange rate margins when you load your card
• Exchange rate margins when you close the card
• Flat or percentage-based fees to load the card
• ATM withdrawal fees
• Exchange rate conversion fee when you use the card
• Reloading fees
• Closing fees

Prepaid travel cards are best if:

• You want to lock in a rate
• You want to stick to a budget
• You lose it/it's stolen

Prepaid travel cards are not great if:

• You want the absolute best rates
• You need to hire a car, make payments on a cruise ship, or pay for a hotel

2. Travel Debit Card

An international card or your bank card offers the convenience of a credit card, but work differently. They draw money directly from your bank's everyday transaction account when you make a purchase. It's designed for everyday money transactions and means that you're not accumulating debt.

A debit card could make you stick to your travel budget, because you can't overdraw money from your account. And for daily purchases, we think a debit card can help you stick to your travel budget, because you can't overdraw money from your account.

We recommend bringing both a debit card and credit card for safety, flexibility and convenience on your trip.

• Currency conversion fee for overseas debit transactions
• Flat fee or percentage-based ATM withdrawal fees
• Foreign ATM owner fees
• Flat fee or percentage fee for debit card purchases via EFTPOS

Debit cards are best for:

• When you have time and you're happy to open a bank account to get one
• Fee-free cash withdrawals from ATMs

Debit cards are not great if:

• You switched from a better account to get one
• Or if you want to switch, but pick a costly travel debit card instead

3. Travel Credit Card

Credit cards have obviously been around for a long time. But now there are specialised travel credit cards. Generally, these cards give you longer to pay back what you've spent but the interest rates after this time can be quite high.

The main advantage with credit cards are the reward points you get in return for your customer loyalty when you spend. But it only works if you pay off the balance in full each month.

Credit cards are great to use for car hire, restaurants and accommodation - larger expenses that are easier for you to pay back over time. Some services only take credit cards to hold purchases so they can definitely be handy while you're travelling.

• Annual and reward scheme fees
• Cash advance fees
• Interest charges

Travel credit cards are best for:

• Getting the best spending rates
• If you have decent credit score and are legible for the credit card
• Frequent flyer points to help you get discounted or free flights
• Low or zero international transaction fees
• Complimentary travel and/or medical insurance offered with a lot of cards

Travel credit cards are not great if:

• Your credit score is poor
• You won't repay in full every month
• Can't afford high minimum credit and annual fees
• Want additional card holders (usually an extra cost)
• Your monthly salary minimum isn't high enough
• For some travel credit cards you have to be a permanent Australian resident

Best travel money card tips

Before you decide which travel money card will best suit your needs, it’s worth comparing a few, bearing in mind these handy travel money card tips:

• Exchange rate - check what rate is used to convert your dollars to the currency needed for spending in your destination. A card which uses the mid-market rate or as close as possible to it is usually the best value
• Coverage - make sure your card covers the currency you’ll need in your destination, as fees may apply if it doesn’t. Picking a card which covers a large number of currencies can also mean you’re able to use your travel money card on future trips.
• Safety - check the card’s safety features. Most cards are linked to an app which allows you to view transactions, check your balance and freeze or unfreeze your card if you need to
• Fees - read through all the possible fees associated with your card before you sign up. Costs may include a foreign transaction fee when spending an unsupported currency, ATM fees, a cash out charge or inactivity fees if you don’t use your card often for example
• Rewards - some travel money cards also offer some nice extras, like ways to earn rewards or discounts, or free wifi when you travel. Travel credit cards in particular have lots of rewards on offer, although you may have to pay an annual fee to get them

Travel card fees

The fees you pay for your travel money card will vary depending on the type of card you select, and the specific provider. 

Travel prepaid cards fees can include:

• Fees when you get your card in the first place
• Load or top up fees
• An exchange rate margin when topping up foreign currencies
• Foreign transaction fees if you spend a currency you don’t have in your account
• ATM charges at home and abroad
• Cash out, close or inactivity charges

Read more about prepaid cards here

Travel debit card can include:

• Card delivery fee
• International ATM fees
• Currency conversion charges

Read more about travel debit cards here

International credit card fees can include:

• Annual fees to hold the card
• Cash advance fees if you use an ATM
• Foreign transaction fees
• Interest if you don’t repay your bill in full
• Penalties if you don’t pay your bill on time

Read more about credit cards here

Conclusion - What is the best card to use while travelling?

There’s no single best travel money card - which works best for you will depend on your personal preferences and where you’re heading. 

Using a multi-currency debit card which supports a large range of currencies can keep your costs low and allow you to skip foreign transaction fees . Plus you’ll be able to use your card for online shopping in foreign currencies, or for your next trip abroad, with no ongoing fees to worry about.

Prepaid travel money cards are safe and easy to use , and you can often pick one up instantly if you’re in a hurry. You’ll be able to add travel money before you leave or top up as you travel, although it’s worth converting to the currency you need in advance, and looking for a card with mid-market exchange rates to avoid extra costs.

Generally using a credit card will come with the highest overall fees - but you’ll be able to spread out the costs of your travel over a few months if you need to, and you may also be able to earn rewards or cash back as you spend. Use this guide to compare different card types and options, and pick the perfect one for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions - Best travel cards to use overseas

Which is the best travel card for use in australia.

The Citibank Plus Everyday Account is the best travel debit card for use in Australia. It works as a normal debit account, with no ATM fees at 3000 ATMs across Australia and has no account minimums.

Which travel card is best for Europe?

The best travel card for Europe is Wise . Not only do you get a great rate when spending in Euros, You get a set of bank account details with which you can recieve EUR transfers, as if you were a local.

Which high-street bank has the best travel card?

The best travel card from an Australian high-street bank is either the Citibank Plus Everyday Account or the CommBank travel money card . While Citibank's card offers more as a travel card (fee-free ATM withdrawals and excellent exchange rates), CommBank has far more in-person branches in Australia if you're someone who prefers doing your banking in person.

What is the best card to use while travelling?

There’s no single best travel money card - which is best for you will depend on your personal preferences. Usually having a few different ways to pay is a smart move, so packing a travel debit card or prepaid card, your credit card and some cash can mean you’re prepared for all eventualities.

Which bank travel card is best?

Australian banks offer travel credit cards, and some also have travel debit or prepaid card options which can be worth considering. Which is best for you will depend on the type of card you’d prefer, so comparing a few options from banks - and from specialist providers like Wise or Revolut - can help you find the best deal for your needs.

The Safest Places to Retire Overseas in 2024

If you’re looking for a safe place to live, you need to consider more than just crime.

Safest Places to Retire Overseas in 2024

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Costa Rica is known for its natural beauty, stable government, affordable cost of living and quality health care, topping many lists as the best place to retire overseas

Key Takeaways

• Safety for retirees abroad goes beyond crime rates, also encompassing health care, political stability and natural disasters.
• The ideal retirement destination varies depending on individual needs and priorities. Some countries offer a low cost of living while others boast superior health care systems or established expat communities.
• Beyond safety, visa requirements and financial considerations like minimum income thresholds can significantly impact where a retiree chooses to live abroad.

Travel tops the bucket list for many retirees, and some take that a step further by permanently moving to another country.

With nearly 200 countries recognized by the United Nations, retirees have no shortage of options. While affordable living is a priority for many people, don’t overlook the importance of safety. Safety extends far beyond a nation’s crime rate and incorporates political stability, potential for natural disasters and access to health care.

“That’s when you feel most vulnerable – when you’re in a hospital gown,” says Andrew Jernigan, CEO of Insured Nomads, which offers travel medical insurance for periods of seven to 364 days. Poor health care can make some popular countries less than ideal for retirees, he notes.

When taking a holistic look at what constitutes a safe country, experts suggest that Americans who want to retire abroad consider these nations and territories, listed in alphabetical order.

Costa Rica tops many lists as the best place to retire overseas, and for good reason. The country is known for its natural beauty, stable government, affordable cost of living and quality health care.

“Retirees can use the excellent public health care system and participate in national discount programs,” said Jen Barnett, co-founder of Expatsi, a website that matches people to countries that fit their preferences, in an email. But not everything is perfect in Costa Rica. “Drug violence has increased over the past two years, but most of that crime doesn't affect civilians,” she added.

The Central American country offers temporary residency to retirees who have a pension income of at least $1,000 a month and meet other requirements, such as passing a background check. Residency approval is good for two years but can be renewed.

This popular European country is a top choice of Jean-François Harvey, founder of Harvey Law Group, a global immigration law firm that specializes in helping clients obtain residency or citizenship by investment. “ France is notable for its relative stability and great health care and pleasant weather – especially in the south,” he says. “And once out of Paris, cost of living is quite low.”

Though France is a safe country, those who choose to live in Paris should be aware of the possibility of petty crime as they would in any large city. “We had our first crime last August in Paris on the metro from the airport to the train station,” said Norm Bour, a retiree who shares his experiences on his website TravelYounger, in an email. A team of thieves distracted Bour while someone pulled a money clip from his cargo shorts. “They used a ploy of dropping a Bluetooth earpiece on the floor and pinched me,” he noted.

Retirees may be eligible for a long-stay visa that will allow them to remain in the country for up to one year at a time. To receive this visa, you’ll need to demonstrate that you have the financial means to support yourself.

For some retirees, living in a country that offers access to good health care is crucial to feeling safe.

“Health care (is) extraordinarily good in many countries – even some you might not expect,” according to Bour. Malaysia is one of those countries. “We got full body scans in Malaysia, along with blood work, cancer markers and a 90-minute review with a doctor.” All that set Bour and his wife back $500.

While original Medicare will not pay for medical expenses overseas, the costs in some countries are so low that retirees may be able to easily pay out of pocket, Harvey says. For added protection, Medicare supplement plans or global health insurance policies may also be options to cover the cost of care.

The Malaysia My Second Home program is designed to make it easy for retirees and other foreign nationals to remain in the country for an extended period. However, you’ll need to meet certain income and investment requirements, which vary depending on your age.

If you’d like to get off the beaten path, Barnett suggests Mauritius as a safe destination for U.S. retirees. The island country in the Indian Ocean has a democratic government and enjoys temperatures in the 70s year-round. “About half of people in Mauritius speak English and public health care is free for all,” according to Barnett.

More than 1,000 miles away from Madagascar, this is an isolated country that might leave some retirees ill at ease. Climate change has also affected the small island.

However, for those ready to make the leap, Mauritius offers a 10-year residency option for people age 50 and older who have a guaranteed monthly income of at least $1,500 and $18,000 in funds available annually from their country of origin.

New Zealand

New Zealand is another option for those who aren’t put off by the thought of being very far from their home country. “It’s quite a long flight to come back,” says Harvey. Direct flights to the U.S. from Auckland are commonly between 13 to 17 hours, depending on your destination.

Still, New Zealand can be an appealing retirement spot, and Harvey says there has been an uptick in interest in the country ever since tech billionaire Peter Thiel made headlines by becoming a citizen. “It’s a quiet place with good health care,” Harvey notes, adding that once you get outside the city, New Zealand becomes more affordable.

Those who are 66 or older and have at least NZD $750,000 to invest – about $450,000 at current exchange rates – can apply for a two-year temporary retirement visitor visa . The visa also requires that retirees have an additional NZD $500,000 to live on and an annual income of NZD $60,000 or more.

Located in Central America, Panama is closer to the U.S. and a popular choice for expats. “Panama City is a generally safe place,” according to Harvey, but it falters when it comes to health care. “I would not say the health care is as similar as European countries,” he says. The city street system can seem chaotic and confusing, he adds.

Despite these drawbacks, Panama offers safe and comfortable retirement options in both its cities and coastal areas . Many Americans choose to settle in Boquete where there is a large expat community. A monthly pension income of only $1,000 is the only financial requirement for those seeking a Panama retirement visa.

While Portugal has been a popular retirement destination in recent years, don’t overlook its neighbor. Spain has a pleasant climate, quality health care and a robust public transportation system.

“Spain is a full democracy that's very safe,” Barnett said. “Expats love living on the southern coast from Málaga to Barcelona, and homes can be had at any price point.”

The country can be especially appealing to Spanish-speaking retirees, and Americans from Puerto Rico can become citizens after living in Spain for two years thanks to its citizenship by descent option. Retirees from all other states and territories can apply for a nonworking residence visa so long as they can provide proof of financial means.

Harvey has worked with clients who retire overseas knowing they will need additional medical care or in-home assistance. “ Thailand often comes into play in those types of situations,” he says.

In addition to inexpensive health care, this Southeast Asian country has a low cost of living, tropical environment and a population known for being respectful. While English speakers can be found in tourist areas, retirees may encounter a language barrier elsewhere in the country.

Thailand retirement visas are extended for periods of one year to those age 50 and older. To qualify, you’ll need a monthly pension or income of at least 65,000 Baht (approximately $1,750) or a Thai bank account balance of at least 800,000 Baht (approximately $22,000). The visa is renewable.

U.S. Virgin Islands

Retirees who move to the U.S. Virgin Islands won’t be expats, but life in the Caribbean may make them feel like they are in a whole new world. With sandy beaches, a warm climate and numerous outdoor activities, this U.S. territory is both safe and easy to access. Just don’t make the mistake of confusing the U.S. Virgin Islands for the nearby British Virgin Islands, which are a foreign territory.

American citizens don’t need a visa or even a passport to move to the U.S. Virgin Islands. Their original Medicare coverage will also pay for medical costs on the islands, which is one reason why Jernigan recommends it.

How to Buy Property Overseas

Kathleen Peddicord and Rachel Hartman April 10, 2024

Tags: baby boomers , aging , health care , safety

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Beef Week, the triennial gathering of Australia’s cattle industry, is sometimes referred to as the Olympics of Beef. It's not hard to see why. Beef 2024 in Rockhampton, Queensland saw close to 120,000 people pass through the gates, with attendees ranging from farmers, technicians, and scientists, to chefs, students, and the general public.   Westpac was a principal partner at this year’s event, which featured cattle competitions, rare breeds, technology exhibits, and a food zone with cuisines from around the world – no prizes for guessing the star ingredient.    “Beef Week is an opportunity to showcase what the beef industry is all about,” says Peta Ward, Westpac’s Head of Agribusiness. “It’s a chance for producers to learn about the latest innovations and digital technology, as well as visiting farms in the region.” Australia is the world’s third biggest beef exporter with the value of production expected to rise to almost $16 billion in the 2024/25 financial year, according to the federal government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Farming. The industry employs over 400,000 people.  Media reports in May that China has lifted trade suspensions on Queensland beef exporters will come as another boost to the industry.  Still, it has been a challenging period for farmers, with weak sale prices and higher feed costs combining to squeeze their margins. They’ve also had to contend with weather extremes ranging from drought to floods as the impacts of climate change make such events more common.   Added to that is the need for farmers to constantly improve the sustainability and efficiency of their operations by investing in new technology.  Innovation drive “I’ve seen immense change in the beef industry over the past 30 years. The focus has moved from the actual livestock to the environment we’re working in,” says Ainsley McArthur, who has been attending Beef Week since it began in 1988 and this year hosted a visit to her Mystery Park cattle ranch around 180 kilometres from Rockhampton.   “There’s been huge progress in AgTech, it’s become much more useable,” she adds. “It’s an exciting place for our children - the opportunities for kids in agriculture have never been greater.” McArthur uses technology to monitor the real-time weight gain of cattle in the paddock, while many farms now deploy GPS ear tags on their herd, as well as drones, to better enable the farmer to track cattle movements.  Other innovations include software to monitor water and soil quality.  Gene Campbell, a senior agribusiness manager at Westpac, agrees that innovation is vital for Australia’s beef industry to stay competitive in global markets.  “For Westpac, Beef Week is a big opportunity for us to better understand what our customers are going through, to understand the challenges and the pressures they face so we can help them through those tough times, but also celebrate with them when they are having those prosperous times as well,” Campbell says. McArthur and her partner Rod have banked with Westpac for the past five years and have been impressed by the willingness of their relationship bankers to come and meet them on the farm. “Having boots on the ground means they get to witness what's happening in the paddocks and then we sit down on the veranda and share our cash forecasts and business goals,” McArthur says.  Ainsley and Rod are fourth generation graziers who hope to one day pass down the business to their six children.  Westpac’s involvement in agribusiness dates back to the bank’s earliest days more than 200 years ago, demonstrating its long-term commitment to the sector, says Anthony Miller, Chief Executive, Business & Wealth. “Beef week is a big moment for our customers so it's really critical that we're here,” Miller says.  “It's an excellent way to engage with our customers and also start to identify what we need to do to be there for them in the next three years.”  

Sarah Williamson is a video producer for Westpac Wire. Sarah joined the team in 2024 bringing with her nearly a decade of experience across all aspects of video production. She's worked with high profile companies including Canva and Lego.

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Do the dividends from Westpac shares still come fully franked?

Will Westpac follow ANZ and start paying out partially-franked dividends?

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When an Australian investor buys an ASX bank stock , they are probably doing so with the expectation of receiving steady, fat and fully franked dividend payments. This reputation naturally applies to Westpac Banking Corp ( ASX: WBC ) shares.

Westpac is Australia's oldest bank and a prominent member of the big four ASX banks. As you would expect, this company has been delighting its investors with hefty dividend payments for decades.

But do Westpac's dividends still come with full franking credits attached? This might seem like a silly question. However, we've already seen one member of the big four banks club recently drop its commitment to paying fully franked dividends.

As we discussed last month , the culprit is ANZ Group Holdings Ltd ( ASX: ANZ ). ANZ shares have transitioned away from paying out fully franked dividends.

This bank's first partially franked dividend in decades was announced back in late 2019. Over subsequent years, ANZ's dividends returned to being fully franked alongside those from Westpac shares and the other banks.. until late 2023. At that time, ANZ revealed that its final dividend for 2023 would only come partially franked at 56%. That payment was doled out on 22 December.

Its next dividend, the final 83 cents per share payout that shareholders will receive on 1 July, is also set to come partially franked. This time at 65%. So it seems a new norm has been established for ANZ.

But what about Westpac shares?

Do the dividends from Westpac shares still come with full franking credits?

Fortunately for Westpac shareholders, it's a different story. All of the dividends this bank stock has paid out over the 21st century so far have come with full franking credits attached. Additionally, the bank has made no indication that it is planning on disrupting this status quo.

Earlier this month, Westpac revealed that its interim dividend for 2024 would come in at a fully franked 75 cents per share. That's a happy 7.14% increase over 2023's interim dividend of 70 cents (also fully franked).

Additionally, Westpac investors are also set to be treated to a supplemental special dividend. That's to be worth an additional 15 cents per share. This too will come with those full franking credits attached.

This makes sense because in order for a company like Westpac to pay out fully franked dividends, the profits that the dividends are funded from must be taxed in Australia.

ANZ, unlike Westpac and the other big four banks, has significant operations outside Australia. As such, these operations make it difficult for ANZ to pay out fully franked dividends.

But Westpac's business model is far more domesticated than ANZ's. As such, this bank probably won't struggle to keep its dividends fully franked going forward.

There's never any certainty in the investing (or dividend) world. But judging by Westpac's past dividend payouts, as well as its Australia-centric business model, the likelihood of Westpac's dividends remaining fully franked is arguably high.

At the current Westpac share price, this ASX 200 bank has a trailing dividend yield of 5.67% on the table. This grosses up to 8.1% with the value of those full franking credits included.

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CBP Reminds Summer Travelers to Stay ‘Travel Ready'

WASHINGTON — As summer approaches and families prepare for their international trips, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reminds the traveling public to use the agency’s official mobile applications to secure and streamline their travel and expedite their reentry into the United States.    

Throughout 2023, CBP expanded use of its technology, processing over 394 million travelers at ports of entry in fiscal year 2023, a 24-percent increase over last year, and has already reached almost 100 million travelers in the first quarter of FY2024, totaling more than 527 million travelers to date using biometric facial comparison technology at entry, exit and Preclearance locations, with a match rate of more than 98 percent.     

Additionally, memberships in CBP’s Trusted Traveler Programs in FY2024 has reached 14 million. For those looking to complete an interview before their summer travel, CBP currently has more than 158,000 interview appointments available within the next 90 days. Enrollment on Arrival (EoA) remains the best option to complete a GE interview. Applicants can complete their interview without an appointment and with just the entry documents they would normally carry when arriving from international locations.   

CBP has also introduced a complement of mobile applications with technological enhancements to help speed up the travel process when entering the U.S. via air, land, or sea. Global Entry, for example, launched a new mobile app in September 2023 that allows members to complete their entry processing on their phones before even leaving the plane. The app can be downloaded from the Apple App store and Google Play, and is currently available for use at 47 airports, with more locations coming soon.  To date around 348,000 Global Entry users have processed their arrival using the app.    

International travelers who are not Global Entry members can take advantage of the Mobile Passport Control app, which allows travelers to submit their passport and travel information in advance with a mobile device, resulting in less congestion and more efficient processing. MPC is available at 51 ports of entry, including 14 Preclearance locations and four seaports. It can be used by all U.S. citizens, U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents, B1/B2 Canadian Citizens, and returning Visa Waiver Program travelers. The app was used by 4.1 million travelers in FY2023, and has already had over 4.2 million uses in FY2024.   

Non-U.S. citizens planning travel into the U.S. also have the option of using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization mobile app or the CBP One mobile app. The ESTA Mobile app was implemented June 1, 2023, and has been used almost 422,000 times to submit an ESTA application for authorization to travel to the U.S. In the first quarter of FY2024, the app has been used almost 338,000 times to apply. The CBP One™ app may also be used by visitors to the U.S. to apply and pay for the I-94 online. In FY2023, visitors used the CBP One app more than 458,000 times to complete a provisional I-94 application and almost 195,000 times in the first quarter of FY2024.    

Additionally, U.S. citizens who are required to declare agriculture and biological products upon arrival into the United States may also use CBP One to provide advanced notification that they will need an agriculture inspection. Categories for declaration include:    

• Biological materials that may require permits issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)  
• Pets, specifically birds and dogs, accompanying travelers in various capacities that carry the potential of introducing foreign animal diseases to the U.S. or other public health concerns   
• Cleaning and disinfection of shoes  
• Hunting trophies    

All CBP applications can be downloaded free from the  Google Play Store  or  Apple App Store . For more information about CBP’s suite of mobile apps, visit Mobile Apps Directory | U.S. Customs and Border Protection (cbp.gov)     

For more information on preparing to travel abroad, visit the Know Before You Go page on the CBP website .  

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is America's frontline: the nation's largest law enforcement organization and the world's first unified border management agency. The 65,000+ men and women of CBP protect America on the ground, in the air, and on the seas. We facilitate safe, lawful travel and trade and ensure our country's economic prosperity. We enhance the nation's security through innovation, intelligence, collaboration, and trust.