Best multi-currency accounts you can open in the UK

Whether you're a frequent traveller, a freelancer paid in euros, or someone with family across borders — the right account for you depends on how you use your money abroad. This guide breaks down the main options so you can find the one that suits you best.

This comparison is based on publicly available information published by other providers as of 11 March 2026.

You should visit their websites for confirmation of their most updated costs and charges.

What is a multi-currency account?

A multi-currency account keeps your money in several currencies within a single app. You can hold balances, convert when the rate suits you, and spend directly from whichever currency you need — without opening a separate account in every country you deal with.

Holding a currency balance also lets you convert when the rate's favourable, rather than at whatever rate's available when you make a payment.

When you pay abroad in France, for example, the card detects the local currency and draws from your euro balance if you have one. If you don't, it does the conversion for you from pounds in real-time. This means you always know which rate you're getting, rather than finding out from your statement later.

Common fees for multi-currency accounts

Not all accounts charge the same way. Here are the 3 main types of fees to check for before you sign up:

• Monthly fees: all the options we compare on this list charge £0 for their most basic plans. Paid plans are available and may offer better rates or higher limits.
• Conversion fee: this is where things differ the most. At Revolut, we don't charge anything on top of our exchange rate (on weekdays within plan limits). Wise and Monese charge a variable percentage on every conversion, while HSBC builds its margin into the exchange rate itself.
• Transfer fee: sending money abroad may carry separate charges even when there's no monthly fee. Always check the exchange rate on the transfer, not just the fee.

Best multi-currency accounts in the UK

Data from providers' websites, accurate as of 11 March 2026. Standard plan terms shown throughout.

About each option

1. Revolut

We offer a multi-currency account that combines everyday banking with international features, making it especially popular among travellers and digital-first customers. You can hold up to 38 currencies and spend abroad with competitive exchange rates (weekend fees apply between 5pm Friday–6pm Sunday).

Customers can convert currencies in real-time or use a pre-converted currency from their balance, although fees may apply outside market hours or once you exceed your plan’s allowance. We operate on a tiered pricing model, with a free plan as well as paid plans that unlock lower fees and additional rewards.

We also offer a physical debit card (delivery fees apply), enabling easy global spending directly from your account.

Exchange fees, global transfer fees, fair usage limits, and T&Cs apply to our rates. Weekend fees may apply.

2. Wise

Wise is one of the most popular multi-currency accounts thanks to its flexibility. It supports over 40 currencies and provides local account details in several regions, making it easy to receive international payments without expensive wire transfers.

You can hold money in its original currency and convert it whenever you choose, which helps you manage exchange timing more effectively. Fees are charged as a small variable percentage per conversion and are typically lower than traditional banks.

Wise also offers a physical debit card that can be used globally, making it easy to spend directly from your balances.

3. Monese

Monese offers a simpler, entry-level multi-currency solution, particularly suited to customers dealing mainly with GBP, EUR, and RON. Its Pay As You Go plan has no monthly fee, making it handy for occasional use. However, currency conversion costs start from around 2%, with minimum charges applied. A physical debit card is available with a £4.95 delivery charge, though this is waived if your first deposit exceeds £100.

4. HSBC Global Money

HSBC provides a more traditional banking option with its Global Money Account, supporting 19 currencies and transfers to over 200 countries. It's best suited to customers who value the security of a major bank, although you must already hold an HSBC UK current account to apply.

Exchange rates include a margin above the exchange rate. One advantage is that a physical debit card is included at no extra cost, with no delivery fee.

Are multi-currency accounts safe?

Yes, multi-currency accounts are generally safe to use, but the level and type of protection you receive depends on the kind of provider you choose — specifically whether it's a fully licensed bank or an electronic money institution (EMI).

Banks like Revolut and HSBC are regulated as licensed financial institutions and are covered by schemes such as the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) in the UK. This protection guarantees up to £120,000 per person, per institution if the bank fails, offering a high level of security for your money.

On the other hand, fintech providers like Wise and Monese operate as electronic money institutions. Instead of FSCS protection, they use a system called safeguarding. This means your money is kept separate from the company’s own money and held in major banks or low-risk investments.

Benefits of multi-currency accounts

Multi-currency accounts simplify money management across borders by allowing you to hold and use multiple currencies in one place. They help reduce conversion costs by letting you exchange money only when needed and often offer better rates than traditional banks. With features like local account details and global debit cards, they make it easier to send, receive, and spend money internationally. Overall, they provide greater convenience, cost efficiency, and flexibility for anyone dealing with multiple currencies.

How to open a Revolut multi-currency account

Opening your account takes less than 5 minutes. Here's how it works:

1. Download the Revolut app: get it on the App Store or Google Play and complete the sign-up process
2. Verify your identity: follow the in-app steps, which usually include uploading a photo of your ID and taking a quick selfie
3. Add money to your account: top up your balance via a debit card or another account
4. Convert: start converting money into 38 supported currencies and manage your multi-currency account in-app

Sources

1. Wise multi-currency account
2. Wise UK pricing
3. Wise live exchange rates
4. Monese pricing
5. Monese UK personal fees and limits
6. HSBC Global Money account
7. HSBC Global Money account FAQs

This comparison is based on publicly available information published by other providers as of 11 March 2026 and is aimed at customers in the UK.

You should visit their websites for confirmation of their most updated costs and charges.

Please note that actual charges and services offered may change and vary depending on individual circumstances. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, we recommend visiting each provider’s official website.

This article and the information provided herein are not intended to constitute legal, regulatory advice.