How do I open a bank account?

Foreign Students's picture

After you have first arrived in the UK, you should apply to open a bank account as soon as possible. Simply ring or go in person to a high street bank and tell them you would like to open an account with them.

When you open your account, you will need to take your passport or national photo ID card, your acceptance  letter from your college or university and possibly a bank statement from your home country account. There may be other requirements, so contact the bank before you arrive in Britain to ensure that you don't leave home without essential information.