Which UK Banks Are Easiest for Non-Residents to Open Accounts, and What Proof of Address Is Required?

Struggling to Open a UK Business Bank Account as a Non-Resident? Contact Us For Help: [email protected]

When opening a bank account in a foreign country, extensive documentation is needed to authenticate foreigners. In the UK, a non-resident is required to provide proof of address which will help in the verification process minimising the chances of fraudulent accounts being opened.

Opening a local bank account lowers transaction costs and foreign exchange spreads.

This Guid explains what problems non-UK residents experience when opening bank accounts, which documents they require for such purposes, and the steps required to follow when opening one.

Banks that non residents can open an account in the UK?

There are many banks in the UK that accept non-residents to open an account. In the UK, there are two main types of banks namely high street banks and online banks. High street banks are retail banking institutions that maintain physical locations in the high streets of various towns and cities across the UK. These banks provide extensive services, including local business accounts, cheque deposits, personal meetings with bankers, and cash withdrawals.

These banks may require at least one or all of the directors (according to the bank's discretion) to travel to the UK and open a bank account.  However, non-residents who hold banking affiliations in their home countries might find it more convenient to open an account with an international bank.

High street banks that may offer services to non-UK residents include:

1. HSBC
2.  NatWest
3.  Barclays
4.  Lloyds
5.  Royal Bank of Scotland

Internet banking is flexible since it allows non residents to open an account without the need to travel to the UK. Online banks that offer services to non UK residents include:

1. Monzo
2. Revolut
3. Tide
4. Starling Bank
5. Tandem
6. Monese

 Some high street banks offer both in-branch and online services while others offer their services virtually only. 

Banks that offer both in-branch and online services include: 

• HSBC- they offer online and mobile banking platforms
• Barclays- online and mobile banking options
• Lloyd- full suite of online banking services
• Natwest- advanced online and mobile banking services

Banks that only offer their services virtually include: 

• Wise
• Revolut
• Monese
• Monzo

What are the charges of opening a bank account in the UK as non residents?

Opening a bank account in the UK as a non resident may vary depending on the bank you decide to open.Charges that you should consider when opening a bank account include: 

Monthly fees - Some banks charge maintenance fees to non UK residents which can range from £5 to £20

Transaction fees - Fees will apply for international transfers and currency.

ATM fees - Using an ATM outside the UK may incur charges.

HSBC provides international accounts that incur a monthly fee, however, this fee may be waived if a specified balance is maintained.

Whereas, Barclays imposes a monthly fee for its international accounts, along with extra charges for specific transactions.

Lloyds operates similarly to Barclays, featuring monthly fees and possible transaction charges. 

In contrast, Revolut and Wise typically offer reduced fees for international transactions and currency conversions.

Challenges that non UK residents face when opening a bank account

Regulatory compliance

In the United Kingdom, banks and financial institutions are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). The FCA's role is to ensure that these institutions adhere to regulations designed to safeguard consumers and maintain the stability of the financial system.

Additionally, the FCA monitors compliance with these regulations and enforces penalties for any breaches. The Money Laundering Regulations in the UK outline the primary principles of Anti-Money Laundering (AML) legislation, compelling banks and financial institutions to adopt robust AML programs and strategies aimed at identifying and preventing the infiltration of illicit funds into the economy. It is imperative for all banks to vigilantly oversee customer loans and thwart money laundering activities perpetrated by criminals.

Most banks achieve AML compliance through Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures, which involve verifying identity documents to confirm client identities and monitoring account activities for any signs of suspicious behavior. This proactive approach is essential in reducing instances of money laundering and the financing of terrorism within the financial sector.

Given these rigorous regulations, it becomes increasingly challenging for foreign nationals to establish business accounts, as many countries lack the necessary agencies and databases to verify individuals' identities and financial histories. Consequently, non-UK residents must undergo thorough scrutiny and provide extensive documentation to open a business account in the UK, as banks require absolute assurance of their identity and the legitimate use of the account.

Proof of address

Many traditional banks require proof of a UK address, which non-residents typically don’t have. Even digital banks that accept virtual addresses might still need proof of a residential address in the home country.

The physical presence of the company representative

Physical banks typically require that at least one director of the company be a resident of the UK and be present during the bank account opening process. Additionally, some banks may mandate that one or all directors travel to the UK to meet with a bank representative and provide the necessary documentation, depending on the bank's policies.

Credit history

Non-residents often lack a UK credit history, which can make it difficult to open certain types of accounts or obtain credit products.

Language barrier

Language barriers can also be challenging when opening a UK bank account. For non-English speakers, navigating the banking system and understanding the terms and conditions can be challenging, prompting both parties to hire a translator which can be expensive.

What are UK bank requirements for non-residents?

To successfully open a UK bank account as a non-resident, you are required to submit two documents: one that verifies your identity and another that confirms your address. Whether you choose a high street bank or choose to open an account online, you will be required to provide this requirement. The documents include:

• Proof of identity - national Identity Card, passport, or driving license.
• Proof of UK address- utility bills, bank statements, or tax statements.
• Proof of non-residents’ residential address in their home country - utility bills, bank statements, or official government correspondence
• Business address
• Contact details
• UK Biometric Residence Permit (if applicable)
• Company registration number
• Estimated annual turnover
• Social Security number or Tax Identification Number
• Employment or income information
• National Insurance number card (if you have one)

Some banks allow opening an account with a UK virtual address while others require a company to have an office space in the UK to provide a rental agreement as proof of address. Banks such as Monese, Wise, Revolut, and Monzo permit non UK residents to use the virtual address as proof. However, Barclays, Lloyd Banking Group, and HSBC may need an address in the UK.

 Requirements for non UK residents may vary from one bank to another. HSBC will require:

• Passport
• Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement for your home country)
• Sometimes they may ask for a tax certificate.

Lloyd Bank will require:

• Proof of identity
• Proof of address
• Income and employment details
• Other personal details like date of birth, marital status, nationality.

Barclays will require:

• A copy of your passport (other forms of ID are accepted)
• Proof of your main residential address (utility bill or bank statements for the last 6 months)
• Client agreement form which can be downloaded from the bank’s website.

Revolut will require:

• Proof of identity a valid passport, national ID card, or driving ‌licence
• Proof of address: a recent utility bill, rental agreement, or bank statement from your current address
• Proof of employment in the UK if employed
• A letter from your university (for students), or your visa details.

To open a Wise account, one will need two documents to prove your identity (passport, driving license) and prove your address. Documents that are acceptable as proof of address include:

• an electricity or gas bill (for the last 3 months)
• a bank or credit card statement (for the last 3 months) 
• a tenancy agreement or mortgage statement
• a current council tax bill
• a letter from the HM Revenue & Customs

To open Monese account, one will require:

• Email address
• Phone number
• ID document

Monzo will require:

• Valid ID 
• UK address if you will need to receive your debit card

Can a foreign address be used as proof of residence?

UK banks often require proof of a UK address to open a bank account. Thus, using a foreign address as proof could be difficult. Such overseas basis could be however exploited that include;

International Banks: UK branches of some international banks may agree to accept overseas addresses, particularly if you maintain an account with them elsewhere in the world.

Online banks: A few online banks, like Monzo or Revolut, may have less strict requirements and they could allow users to use foreign addresses. Some banks offer accounts specifically designed for non-residents, which might have different documentation requirements.

However, it is advisable to do research and contact the bank directly to understand their specific requirements and see if they can accommodate your situation.

Can banks accept non UK residents to open a bank account without a proof of address?

There are banks in the UK that allow residents to open bank accounts without providing proof of address.

Some of the banks that allow non UK residents to open a bank account without a proof of address include:

• Monese 
• Wise
• Monzo
• Starling bank
• Revolut

With these banks, non residents will be required to provide minimal documentation. While it is possible to create an online bank account without the need for proof of address, you will be required to present proof of identification. Banks must validate your identity before they can authorise the opening of an account.

Which are the easiest bank accounts to open in the UK for non residents?

Opening an account with one of the major banks in the UK, such as Barclays, Lloyds, HSBC, or NatWest, is generally the easiest process. With their long-standing existence and experience in the banking sector and are recognised for their security. 

They are known to have an experience in serving non residents offering flexibility and seamless operations.

Regardless of your nationality, it is advisable to contact the customer support team of the bank before initiating the account opening process. This will enable you to gather pertinent information and address any potential challenges you may encounter.

 Furthermore, it is important to note that there are alternatives to traditional bank accounts for managing finances in the UK or abroad. 

How to open a bank account online as a non UK resident?

1. Choose a banking entity that is appropriate for your business and personal needs.
2. Collect all important documents, including proof of identity and address.
3. Visit the bank's official website to begin the application process.
4. Ensure that you complete all forms and attach the necessary documentation correctly.
5. Review the application form meticulously before submission.
6. Wait for approval.

These banks offer account details, including sort codes, IBANs, as well as both virtual and physical bank cards.

Navigating requirements of proof of address when opening a UK bank account as a non resident can be challenging but with the right support and research, one can overcome all the hurdles. With proper preparations, non residents can successfully open a bank account in the UK smoothly.

Icon Offices has partnered with banks to ensure their clients open a UK bank account efficiently and seamlessly. With this partnership, non UK residents can access speedy banking solutions and benefit from cashback and more.

We also offer a virtual office that comes with a professional business address that one can use to open a bank account in the UK. This address can be used as proof of address in banks that accept virtual office addresses.

For more information, contact us at [email protected].