How to Open a UK Bank Account as a New Immigrant
You need a UK bank account for salary, rent, and bills — but most banks want proof of address, which is hard in your first weeks. App-based banks (Monzo, Starling, Revolut) often onboard newcomers with just a passport and visa, and every major bank must offer a free basic account to applicants.
The Steps
Follow these in order
Each card shows the phase, expected time, and any cost. Data checked against official UK sources(2025-Latest).
0 of 6 steps
- Before You Go 15 min
Understand the two document hurdles
Banks must verify your identity (passport + visa is enough) and your UK address (the hard part). If you have no UK address history, target banks that accept a tenancy agreement or employer letter, or start with an app-based bank.
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- Go 1–3 days
Try an app-based bank first
Monzo, Starling, and Revolut verify identity with a passport photo and a selfie video, and several accept newly arrived visa holders. Approval can take minutes to a couple of days. These are full FSCS-protected UK current accounts (check the specific account is, not just the e-money wallet).
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- Fill / Prepare
Apply for a high-street account once you have an address
With a tenancy agreement or utility bill, apply to Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds, NatWest, or Nationwide online or in branch. Bring your passport, visa/BRPBiometric Residence Permit — The card proving your UK immigration status, permission length, and right to work. Being replaced by eVisas.Click for official info ↗ or share codeUK immigration share code — A 9-character code that proves your UK immigration status to an employer or landlord. Generated online, valid 90 days.Click for official info ↗, and address proof. Some banks let you book a branch appointment online — do this, walk-ins can wait weeks.
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- Submit & Pay
Ask for a basic account if rejected
If a bank refuses you a standard current account, it must consider you for a free basic bank account — no overdraft, no fees, but full debit card and direct debit facilities. Rejection for credit reasons cannot block you from a basic account.
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- Follow Up
Build your UK financial footprint
Once the account is open, set up your salary payment, register for online banking, and keep the account active. After a few months of statements you will have the proof-of-address trail that makes renting, getting a phone contract, and switching banks much easier.
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- Receive
Switch later for better deals
After you are settled, the Current Account Switch Service moves your account (with all direct debits) to a new bank in 7 working days, free, with a guarantee that nothing breaks. Many banks pay switch bonuses of £100–£200.
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a UK bank account before I arrive?
Some international banks (HSBC, Barclays, Lloyds) let you start an application from abroad if you hold an account with them in another country — otherwise you generally need to be in the UK with your visa. Plan to use cash or a fee-free card for your first weeks.
The bank asked for a "bank letter" for proof of address. What is that?
Some employers and universities issue a letter confirming your UK address specifically for bank applications. Ask your HR department or university accommodation office — banks accept these from new arrivals with no bills yet.
Do I need an NI number to open a bank account?
No. Banks ask for it for tax reporting on interest, but you can open the account without one and add it later. Do not delay your account — you need it for payroll far sooner than your NI numberNational Insurance number — Your UK tax and social security number. You need it to work, pay tax, and claim benefits.Click for official info ↗ arrives.
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