Are you planning to move to the UK for work, study, or other reasons? If so, one of the first things you’ll need to do is open a bank account. Having a local bank account will make your life easier in many ways. You’ll be able to receive your salary, pay your bills, transfer money, and access other financial services.

However, opening a bank account in the UK as an international migrant can be challenging. You may face some hurdles, such as providing the right documents, choosing the best account type, and meeting the bank’s criteria. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you through the process. In this guide, you’ll learn:

• What documents you need to open a bank account in the UK
• How to apply for a bank account in the UK
• What types of accounts are available for international migrants
• How to change from a basic account to a current account
• How to compare different banks and find the best option for you

By following this guide, you’ll be able to open a bank account in the UK with ease and confidence. Let’s get started!

What Documents Do You Need to Open a Bank Account in the UK?

Before you visit a bank branch or apply online, you need to prepare some documents to prove your identity and address. UK banks are required by law to verify these details before opening an account for you. This is to prevent fraud, money laundering, and terrorism financing.

The documents you need may vary depending on the bank and the type of account you want. However, most banks will ask for at least one current proof of identity and one current proof of address.

Proof of Identity

Your proof of identity should show your full name, date of birth, nationality, and photograph. The following documents are usually accepted as proof of identity:

• Passport
• National identity card (for EU or EEA nationals)
• Residence permit issued by the Home Office to EU nationals
• National driving licence (for EU or EEA nationals)

If you don’t have any of these documents, you may be able to use other forms of identification, such as:

• Birth certificate
• Student ID card
• Biometric residence card
• Immigration status document

However, not all banks accept these alternative documents, so check with them before applying.

Proof of Address

Your proof of address should show your full name and current UK address. The following documents are usually accepted as proof of address:

• Tenancy agreement
• A letter from your UK employer confirming your address (and pay slips, if available)
• Utility bill (e.g., gas, electricity, water)
• Council tax bill
• Bank statement

If you don’t have any of these documents, you may be able to use other forms of proof of address, such as:

• Proof of your previous or permanent address in your home country (e.g., national identity card or driving licence)
• Written permission for the bank to obtain a reference from a bank or financial institution in your home country (if applicable)
• A letter from a reputable source confirming your address (e.g., a solicitor, an accountant, a doctor)

Again, not all banks accept these alternative documents, so check with them before applying.

How to Apply for a Bank Account in the UK

Once you have your documents ready, you can apply for a bank account in the UK. There are two main ways to do this: online or in person.

Online Application

Many banks allow you to apply for an account online through their websites or mobile apps. This can be convenient and fast, as you don’t have to visit a branch or wait in line. However, not all banks offer this option for international migrants or those without typical UK documents. You may also need to provide additional information or verification during the application process.

To apply for an account online, you’ll need to:

• Choose a bank and an account type that suits your needs
• Fill out an online application form with your personal and financial details
• Upload scanned copies or photos of your documents as proof of identity and address
• Wait for the bank to review your application and perform any necessary checks
• Receive confirmation from the bank that your account has been opened or rejected

If your application is approved, you’ll receive your account details and debit card by mail. You may also need to activate your card online or by phone before using it.

If your application is rejected, don’t worry. You can still try another bank or apply in person.

In-Person Application

Another way to apply for an account is by visiting a bank branch near you. This can be helpful if you have any questions or issues with your documents or application. You may also have a better chance of getting approved, as you can speak to a bank representative directly and explain your situation.

To apply for an account in person, you’ll need to:

• Choose a bank and an account type that suits your needs
• Make an appointment with the bank or walk into a branch
• Bring your original documents as proof of identity and address
• Fill out a paper application form with your personal and financial details
• Wait for the bank to review your application and perform any necessary checks
• Receive confirmation from the bank that your account has been opened or rejected

If your application is approved, you’ll receive your account details and debit card on the spot or by mail. You may also need to activate your card online or by phone before using it.

If your application is rejected, don’t worry. You can still try another bank or apply online.

App-Based Digital Banks: A Quick Option

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to open a bank account in the UK, you may want to consider app-based digital banks. These are banks that operate entirely online or through mobile apps, without any physical branches. They offer slick and convenient banking experiences, with features such as:

• Instant notifications and spending insights
• Budgeting and saving tools
• Fee-free spending abroad
• Multi-currency accounts
• In-app customer support

Some of the most popular app-based digital banks in the UK are:

• Starling Bank: A fully licensed bank that offers a fee-free current account, overdrafts, loans, savings, and more. It also has a powerful paid add-on called Starling Kite, which allows you to give your child a debit card linked to your account.¹
• Monzo: A fully licensed bank that offers a current account with spending notifications, budgeting help, savings pots, and interest rates. It also has a premium account called Monzo Plus, which gives you access to extra features such as credit score monitoring, virtual cards, and custom categories.
• Wise: A multi-currency account that lets you hold and exchange over 50 currencies at the real exchange rate. It also gives you a debit card that you can use to spend abroad without fees. It’s ideal for travellers, expats, and freelancers who deal with foreign currencies. You can even set-up a wise account from your home country so that you can have access to money as well be able to pay bills, rent etc by the time your main bank account is set-up.

To open an account with an app-based digital bank, you’ll need to download their app and apply online. The process is usually fast and simple, taking just a few minutes if you’re accepted. You’ll need to provide some personal details and documents to verify your identity and address.

App-based digital banks are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) in the UK. They also protect your money up to £85,000 under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), just like traditional banks.

However, app-based digital banks may not offer all the services and features that traditional banks do, such as:

• Branches and ATMs
• Cheques and cash deposits
• Mortgages and investments
• Rewards and cashback

Therefore, it’s important to compare different app-based digital banks and find the one that best suits your needs and preferences.

What Types of Accounts Are Available for International Migrants?

Different banks offer different types of accounts for international migrants. Some may require you to start with a basic bank account, while others may allow you to open a current account right away. Here’s a brief overview of the main types of accounts you can choose from:

Basic Bank Account

A basic bank account is a simple and low-cost account that allows you to perform essential banking functions. With a basic bank account, you can:

• Receive your salary, benefits, or other income
• Pay your bills, rent, or other expenses by direct debit or standing order
• Withdraw cash from ATMs
• Transfer money to other accounts
• Check your balance and transactions online, by phone, or at a branch

However, a basic bank account does not offer any credit facilities, such as:

• Overdrafts
• Cheques
• Credit cards
• Savings accounts
• Loans

A basic bank account is suitable for those who:

• Have no or low credit history in the UK
• Have poor or bad credit history in the UK or abroad
• Have difficulty providing the required documents for a current account
• Want to avoid fees and charges for using banking services

Most banks offer basic bank accounts for free or with minimal fees. However, some banks may charge fees for certain services, such as:

• Using an ATM outside the UK
• Using an ATM from another bank in the UK
• Replacing a lost or stolen card
• Sending or receiving money abroad

Therefore, it’s important to check the terms and conditions of the account before applying.

Current Account

A current account is a standard and versatile account that allows you to access a range of banking services. With a current account, you can:

• Receive your salary, benefits, or other income
• Pay your bills, rent, or other expenses by direct debit or standing order
• Withdraw cash from ATMs
• Transfer money to other accounts
• Check your balance and transactions online, by phone, or at a branch
• Use an overdraft facility (subject to approval and fees)
• Write cheques (subject to approval and fees)
• Apply for a credit card (subject to approval and fees)
• Open a savings account (subject to approval and fees)
• Apply for a loan (subject to approval and fees)

A current account is suitable for those who:

• Have a good or fair credit history in the UK or abroad
• Can provide the required documents for a current account
• Want to access more banking options and features

Most banks offer current accounts for free or with minimal fees. However, some banks may charge fees for certain services, such as:

• Using an overdraft facility (interest rate and/or fixed fee)
• Writing cheques (per cheque fee)
• Using an ATM outside the UK (transaction fee and/or exchange rate fee)
• Sending or receiving money abroad (transaction fee and/or exchange rate fee)

Therefore, it’s important to check the terms and conditions of the account before applying.

Some banks also offer premium current accounts that come with extra benefits, such as:

• Travel insurance
• Mobile phone insurance
• Breakdown cover
• Cashback rewards

However, these accounts usually charge a monthly fee that may not be worth it unless you use all the benefits regularly.

How to Change from a Basic Account to a Current Account

If you start with a basic bank account, you may want to upgrade to a current account after some time. A current account can offer you more flexibility and convenience in managing your finances. It can also help you build your credit history in the UK, which can improve your chances of getting approved for other financial products in the future.

The process of changing from a basic account to a current account depends on the bank’s policies. Some banks may allow you to apply for a current account as soon as you provide the correct identification documents. Others may require you to demonstrate your ability to manage a basic account before considering an upgrade.

To change from a basic account to a current account, you’ll need to:

Contact your bank and ask about their criteria and process for upgrading your account

• Provide any additional documents or information they may request
• Wait for the bank to review your application and perform any necessary checks
• Receive confirmation from the bank that your account has been upgraded or rejected

If your application is approved, you’ll receive your new account details and debit card by mail. You may also need to activate your card online or by phone before using it.

If your application is rejected, don’t worry. You can still try another bank or keep using your basic account.

How to Compare Different Banks and Find the Best Option for You

As an international migrant, you have many options when it comes to choosing a bank and an account in the UK. However, not all banks and accounts are created equal. Some may offer better features, services, and fees than others. Therefore, it’s important to compare different banks and find the best option for you.

To compare different banks and accounts, you’ll need to consider several factors, such as:

• Eligibility: Can you open an account with the bank? What documents do they require? Do they accept online or in-person applications?
• Account type: What type of account do they offer? Is it a basic or a current account? Does it have any credit facilities or extra benefits?
• Fees and charges: How much does it cost to use the account? Are there any monthly or annual fees? Are there any fees for using certain services, such as overdrafts, cheques, ATMs, or international transfers?
• Customer service: How easy is it to contact the bank? Do they have a dedicated department for international migrants? Do they offer online, phone, or branch support? Do they have multilingual staff?
• Convenience: How accessible is the bank? Do they have many branches or ATMs near you? Do they have a user-friendly website or mobile app? Do they offer online banking or mobile banking?

To compare different banks and accounts, you can use various sources of information, such as:

• Bank websites: You can visit the bank’s website and check their products, services, fees, and terms and conditions. You can also apply for an account online if they offer this option.
• Bank branches: You can visit a bank branch near you and speak to a bank representative. You can ask them any questions you have and apply for an account in person if you prefer.
• Comparison websites: You can use comparison websites that list and compare different banks and accounts based on various criteria. You can also read reviews from other customers and see their ratings and feedback.
• Friends and family: You can ask your friends and family who live in the UK for their recommendations and experiences with different banks and accounts. They may be able to give you some useful tips and advice.

By comparing different banks and accounts, you’ll be able to find the best option for you based on your needs, preferences, and budget.

Conclusion

Opening a bank account in the UK as an international migrant is a vital step towards financial stability and integration into your new home. By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to:

• Prepare the necessary documents to prove your identity and address
• Apply for a bank account online or in person
• Choose between a basic or a current account
• Change from a basic account to a current account
• Compare different banks and find the best option for you

Whether you’re a newcomer or returning after a period abroad, following these steps will help you establish a solid banking foundation in the UK. Embrace your new financial journey with confidence and embark on your exciting adventures in the United Kingdom.