Opening a UK bank account when you are new to the UK

What banks ask for, what the law says, and what to try if you are refused.

The short answer

You can open a UK bank account without a long UK history, but banks must check your identity, and by law they must also check your immigration status for a current account. Take your passport or other photo ID, and proof of your UK address if you have one. If you cannot get a current account, there are alternatives.

What banks usually ask for

MoneyHelper says banks typically ask for a driving licence or passport to prove who you are, or a photo if you apply online, often with a selfie. They also want proof of address. If you do not have a licence or passport, documents such as a Council Tax bill, utility bill, bank statement, HMRC letter, mortgage statement, tenancy agreement or benefit statement may be accepted.

Banks set their own rules, so ask what each one accepts before you apply.

If you have no proof of address yet

MoneyHelper suggests considering a prepaid card account, where ID is not usually needed. Prepaid cards are limited, though. They may not take Direct Debits, wages or benefits, so treat them as a short-term step until you can open a full account.

Immigration status checks

Under the Immigration Act 2014, banks must check the immigration status of people applying for a current account. GOV.UK says they must refuse a new current account, or close an existing one, if you are a "disqualified person". If you believe you were refused or closed by mistake, GOV.UK says to contact the Home Office. For help with your visa status, see our guide to getting immigration advice safely.

Basic bank accounts

A basic account lets you receive wages, benefits and pensions and pay with a debit card, but has no cheque book or overdraft, so you cannot spend more than you have. MoneyHelper says they are aimed at people who may struggle to get a standard account, such as those with a poor credit history, and that you must be at least 16. If a bank refuses you, ask why, and you should be told the reason unless the bank suspects fraud or money laundering. You can then apply elsewhere, or consider a credit union current account or a prepaid card account.

Your money is protected

The Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) protects up to £120,000 per eligible person, per bank, building society or credit union, a limit that rose on 1 December 2025. Banks that share one licence share the same limit.

Switching later

Once you are settled, the Current Account Switch Service moves your Direct Debits, standing orders and balance to a new account in seven working days, according to MoneyHelper.

Other first steps

Get your National Insurance number: see our guide to getting an NI number.
Read our moving to the UK page for the rest of the checklist.
If you cannot get an account and you think a decision was unfair, you can complain to the bank. Free help is listed on our free help page.

Where to learn more

This guide is for information only and is not tax, benefits or financial advice. Rules and amounts can change, so check the official pages before you rely on them.