Which banks accept new arrivals with no UK credit history, what ID you need, and how to open a basic bank account quickly.
A UK bank account makes everyday life much easier - getting paid, paying rent and bills, and avoiding cash-handling fees. As a new arrival the main hurdle is proving who you are and where you live, but there are good options even before you have a UK credit history.
What you usually need
- Proof of identity: your passport (and visa/eVisa share code may help).
- Proof of address: a tenancy agreement, a letter from your university, or a utility/council tax bill. Not everyone has this at first - see below.
If you have no proof of address yet
This is the most common problem for new arrivals. Options that often work:
- App-based banks (such as Monzo or Starling) frequently let you open an account using your passport and a selfie, sometimes without a traditional proof-of-address document.
- Basic bank accounts: high-street banks must offer fee-free basic accounts to people who don’t qualify for a standard account. These let you receive money, pay bills and use a debit card.
- University/student banking: if you are a student, ask your university - many have arrangements and can provide an introductory letter.
Tips
- Compare accounts for monthly fees, overdraft terms and whether they accept your documents before applying.
- Opening several accounts in a short time can affect future credit applications - apply for what you need.
- Never pay anyone a fee to “guarantee” you a bank account.
Bank requirements differ and change often. Check each bank’s current new-customer requirements on their official website before you apply, and bring originals of your documents.
