What do you need to open a bank account in the UK?

If you're moving to the UK for work, study, or to join family, setting up your finances is likely at the top of your to-do list. Having a local account lets you get paid, pay your rent, and manage your money without worrying about exchange rates. However, many people find themselves asking: what do you need to open a bank account in the UK? The process can feel complicated, especially if you're new to the country and don't have a long history of local documents yet.

To help you navigate this transition, we've put together a guide on the standard requirements and documents.

Read on to learn all about what you need and, if you want to know more about the process, check out our guide to opening a bank account in the UK.

Requirements to open a bank account in the UK

Most people who are residents of the UK can apply for a bank account. Even if you're not a UK citizen, you can still apply for an account as long as you have the right to live in the UK. This applies to workers on visas, international students, and those with settled or pre-settled status.

While specific eligibility criteria vary between providers, the general requirements usually include the following:

• Being 18 years or older (though some banks offer accounts for those aged 16–17)
• Having a valid form of ID
• Being a resident at a UK address

Documents needed to open a bank account

When you apply for a current account, banks are required by law to verify who you are and where you live. This means you'll need to provide 2 main types of documentation: proof of identity and proof of address.

Proof of identity

Your proof of identity must be a valid, original document that includes your photo. Most banks in the UK accept the following:

• A valid passport
• A UK driving licence (full or provisional)
• A national identity card
• A biometric residence permit (BRP)

It's important that the name on your ID matches the name you use in your application exactly. If you've recently changed your name (e.g. through marriage), you may need to provide additional evidence of this change.

Proof of address

Proving your UK address is often the most challenging part of the process for newcomers. Banks require a document that shows your name and your current residential address together. Commonly accepted documents include the following:

• A utility bill (gas, electricity, or water) dated within the last 3 months
• A council tax bill for the current year
• A bank or building society statement dated within the last 3 months
• A mortgage statement
• A formal tenancy agreement from a council or letting agency
• A letter from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) regarding your tax code or National Insurance number

Some providers may not accept mobile phone bills as a valid form of proof of address. If you're struggling to find a document, some banks may accept a letter from your employer or university, especially if you've just arrived in the country.

Why do banks ask for proof of address and identity?

It might feel like a lot of paperwork, but there are important reasons why financial institutions ask for these documents. These checks are part of Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations in the UK. They help:

• prevent fraud: verifying your identity ensures that no one else is trying to open an account in your name using stolen details
• stop money laundering: by knowing who their customers are, banks can help prevent criminals from moving illegally obtained money through the financial system
• improve safety and security: these measures help to keep your money and the wider financial network safe from digital and physical threats

UK bank account requirements for foreigners

If you've just arrived in the UK, you might not have a utility bill or a local bank statement yet. This is a common hurdle. In these cases, you may need to provide evidence of your status in the country.

Non-UK nationals will often need to show their visa or residence permit. This confirms you have the legal right to stay and work or study in the UK. Some banks have specific international student or expat accounts designed for people in this situation, though these may sometimes come with monthly fees or higher balance requirements.

International students and workers

For those coming to the UK to study, a letter of acceptance from your university is a key document. This letter should confirm your enrolment and your UK address (such as university halls of residence).

For workers, a letter from your employer or a copy of your employment contract can sometimes serve as supporting evidence.

Alternative options for opening an account

If you prefer not to visit a physical branch or if you're finding it hard to meet the strict requirements of high-street banks, digital alternatives are available.

Digital-first accounts often allow you to complete the entire verification process from your smartphone. Instead of bringing physical papers to a branch, you usually upload photos of your ID and take a selfie to verify that you're the person in the document. This can be a much faster way to get your finances up and running.

Explore what you can do with a Revolut current account

The Revolut alternative: opening an account online

We offer a modern way to manage your money without the need for physical branches or piles of paperwork. As a digital-first bank, we help you get set up quickly and enjoy a wide range of features.

By signing up for Revolut, you can:

• send and receive money
• hold balances in multiple currencies
• set up Direct Debits and recurring payments
• use physical and virtual cards for your daily spending

What you need to open a Revolut account

Opening an account with us is designed to be as simple as possible. To get started, you'll need:

• to be 18 years or older
• a smartphone capable of running the Revolut app
• a valid mobile phone number
• a government-issued photo ID (such as a passport or driving licence)

In most cases, we can verify your identity in minutes. We use secure technology to compare your ID photo with a selfie you take in-app, which removes the need to visit a branch in person.

Learn more about setting up a Revolut account.

How to sign up for Revolut

Whether you're a student, a professional, or someone who travels regularly, our plans are built to adapt to your lifestyle. And getting started is easy. Here's how it works:

1. Download the app: find us on the Google Play or App Store
2. Enter your phone number: we'll send you a 6-digit code via text to verify your mobile
3. Set your passcode: create a secure 4-digit code to keep your account safe
4. Provide your details: enter your name, date of birth, and your current UK address
5. Verify your identity: take a clear photo of your ID and a quick selfie in-app
6. Choose your plan: select the plan that suits you best, from our free Standard plan to our feature-packed paid plans

Revolut Bank UK Ltd (https://revolut.com) is registered in England and Wales (Registered No. 12871051). Registered address: 30 South Colonnade, London E14 5HX, United Kingdom. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority (Financial Services Register No. 981170).

The information provided is accurate as of 29 May 2026.