Open a bank account, buy insurance, register with a doctor when you first arrive

🔄 Cập nhật lần cuối: 08/10/26

Immediately after checking in, there are three things international students should prioritize: opening a bank account, activating health insurance and registering with a doctor (GP). This is the "infrastructure" for everything that follows, from receiving overtime pay, paying rent to seeing a doctor when needed. This article provides instructions on how to do it, required documents, and the main differences between popular study abroad countries.

What order should I do it in?

Many procedures are "chained" together: the bank may need a phone number and address; The clinic needs a phone number to text appointments; Some countries require a residence card before opening an account. Suggested order:

1. Buy local SIM/eSIM number (see SIM, eSIM and internet when you first arrive abroad).
2. Receive an enrollment letter from the school, usually during the orientation session.
3. Register residence/foreigner card if required by that country (Japan, Korea, Germany...).
4. Open a bank account.
5. Activate/confirm health insurance and download the insurance company's application.
6. Register with a doctor near your residence or school clinic.

Open a bank account while studying abroad

A local bank account helps you avoid foreign currency conversion fees when making daily expenses, receiving part-time wages, and paying rent on time.

Documents often needed

• Valid passport and visa/residence permit.
• Letter confirming attendance from school.
• Documents proving address (lease contract, letter from school sent to that address).
• Local phone number; Some countries require a residence card or identification number.

Varies by country

In the first weeks without an account, bring an international card and some cash as instructed in the article Exchange foreign currency, bring cash and cards when studying abroad. Once you have an account, parents can transfer living expenses directly through legal channels for reference Ways to send money for your children to study abroad.

Note account safety

• Do not lend your account to others to receive or transfer money on your behalf, even if they are acquaintances.
• Enable transaction notifications and two-factor authentication.
• Carefully read account maintenance fees and out-of-system withdrawal fees.

Health insurance: mandatory in most countries

Health insurance is often a condition of the visa, so many people buy it before flying. What you need to do when you arrive is: Activate, receive your membership card and understand how to use it. Details of each type are in the article OSHC study abroad health insurance and other types; Below is the summary:

• Australia: international students are not covered by the Medicare system. Visa condition 8501 requires the maintenance of adequate health insurance (OSHC) throughout your stay in Australia, except in certain cases where it is exempted by bilateral agreement.
• UK: for courses over 6 months, you pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) fee when applying for a visa and can use NHS services as a resident. Some services such as dentistry and prescription drugs may still charge a fee.
• USA: most schools require participation in the school's insurance package or proof of an equivalent package to be exempted (waiver).
• Canada: depends on province; Some provinces allow international students to participate in public health programs (sometimes with a waiting period), some provinces require the purchase of the school's insurance package.
• South Korea: from March 1, 2021, international students are required to participate in National Health Insurance (NHIS) after registering as foreigners; Fees may affect visa extension.
• Japan: long-term international students enroll in National Health Insurance at the district/city office when registering their address.

Family doctor (GP) registration

In the UK, Australia, Canada and many other countries, the family doctor (General Practitioner - GP) is the "gateway" to the medical system: you see the GP first, the GP will refer to a specialist if necessary. Registering early, while you're still healthy, helps you not be passive when you get sick.

How to register

1. Find a clinic near you or your school's medical center (many schools have clinics on campus).
2. Fill out the registration form online or at the counter; Prepare passport, visa, address, phone number, insurance information.
3. Declare your medical history, current medications, allergies, vaccination schedule.
4. Save the appointment phone number, business hours and after-hours service number.

In the UK, schools often advise registering with a GP as soon as you arrive even if you are well, and note that your right to use the NHS only applies while you are in the UK. If you need to take medicine regularly, bring enough medicine for the first few months as prescribed, refer to the article Bring medicine when studying abroad.

Distinguish between GP, emergency and advice lines

All of the above will go more smoothly if you arrive at school a few days before orientation. Article first day at school There is a complete checklist. When placed air tickets to study abroad At VeDuHoc, Bookers will suggest reasonable flight dates with admission schedules, hunt for multi-carrier prices and continue to monitor prices; If a better price is found after you have paid, HVSC will refund the difference.

Frequently asked questions

Can I open a foreign bank account from Vietnam?

Some banks (for example in Australia) allow online registration before arrival, but you still need to verify your identity when you arrive. Check your bank's website and your school's guidance page.

If I have paid IHS when applying for a UK visa, do I have to buy additional insurance?

IHS allows you to use the NHS, but does not cover any costs (eg some dental services, eyeglasses) or costs incurred when traveling outside the UK. You may consider adding travel insurance if needed.

Is it okay if I don't register for a GP?

You can still get first aid in an emergency, but a regular examination will be more difficult and slower. Registering early is the best way.

Does insurance pay immediately or do I have to pay in advance?

Depending on the company and medical facility: some places pay directly, some places you pay in advance and then submit a claim. Read the terms carefully and keep the receipt.

Completing these three procedures in the first week will give you peace of mind to focus on your studies and new life. Don't forget to plan your spending right from the first month with the suggestions in the article Personal financial management for international students. Need advice on flight itinerary, please contact hotline/Zalo 090.1800.918.

📚 Articles on the same topic

Study abroad lifeEconomical cooking for international students: menus and shopping tips15/01/20 · 7 phút đọcStudy abroad lifeStaying in touch with family while studying abroad: tools and habits21/01/24 · 6 phút đọcStudy abroad lifeMake friends and build a network of relationships while studying abroad18/08/18 · 6 phút đọcStudy abroad lifeWorking part-time while studying abroad: hour limits, salary and legal notes18/06/25 · 6 phút đọcStudy abroad lifeFirst day at school: orientation and things to do20/12/24 · 6 phút đọcStudy abroad lifeIndependent skills are needed before studying abroad03/11/18 · 6 phút đọc