The requirements to open a bank account vary from bank to bank, but you’ll generally need to provide your personal information and to verify your identity and address.
How to apply for a bank account
There are several ways to apply. You can:
Apply online. You can open an account online by filling out an application on the bank’s website or, if you’re already a customer with the bank, through your online account.
Apply on the app. Many banks let you apply for a new account by following the prompts through their mobile app.
Apply by phone. Some will let you open a new account over the phone. You may be required to verify your identity online, by mail or in person.
Apply in person. You can visit your nearest bank branch to apply for an account in person.
Apply by switching. If the new bank you want to join is part of the Current Account Switch Service, it will do the leg work for you by closing your old account, moving your balance and switching all your payments.
Eligibility criteria
Before you apply for a bank account, you’ll need to make sure you meet any eligibility criteria that apply. These will vary depending on the type of account you’d like to open, but can include:
Age requirements. You’ll need to be at least 18 years of age to open an account by yourself, though children may be able to open a joint account with a parent or guardian.
Residency requirements. You’ll typically need to be a UK resident to open an account, but in some cases it is possible to open an account from overseas.
Deposit requirements. Some accounts require a minimum deposit in order to open an account.
Other criteria may apply, so it’s a good idea to check the terms and conditions before beginning an application.
What information do I need to open a bank account?
If you’re already a customer with a bank, it will already have your personal information on file and you likely won’t need to supply any extra details unless you’re setting up a business or a children’s account. However, if you’ve never had an account with that particular bank before, you’ll need to provide:
Personal details. Including your gender, full name, date of birth and residential address.
Contact details. The bank will need your phone number and email address.
Government-issued ID. You’ll need a passport or driving licence to prove your identity.
If you’re opening a joint account, you’ll need to provide the above information for all account holders.
Depending on the type of account you open, there may also be circumstances where you need to supply some additional information. These include:
Student accounts. If you’re applying for a student bank account, you may need to provide a student ID or proof of enrolment at your college or university.
Overseas accounts. If you’re currently based overseas and are about to move to UK and need to open a bank account, you may need to provide your passport and potentially your visa details, as well as your expected arrival date and city.
Linked accounts. If you’re opening a linked account, you’ll need your current account number. Some banks require you to have a linked current account when you open a savings account.
Application requirements are a little different if you’re applying to open a business bank account. In addition to your name, contact details and proof of ID, you may also need to supply:
Details of how your business is structured. This includes your business’s formation documents.
Your employer identification number. If you’re a sole trader, you might also be able to use your passport number.
Your business licence. Your bank will need the full address and contact details of your business or company.
Ownership agreements. If you’re not the sole owner of your business, you’ll need to include information about any other owners.
What ID do I need to set up a bank account?
The exact ID requirements can differ slightly between banks, so it’s worth checking with your financial institution for their guidelines on acceptable forms of ID. However, you’ll generally need to supply some form of government-issued ID, such as a driver’s licence or passport. Some banks may also require you to submit a birth certificate or National Insurance card and/or proof of address, like a utility bill.
How can I provide photo ID?
Some banks allow you to verify your ID online. You’ll need to have your ID handy when applying for an account online and then follow the on-screen prompts to photograph your ID. Other banks, however, may require you to bring your ID to the nearest branch, or to provide a certified copy of your documents by mail.
Bottom line
Opening a new bank account is a relatively simple process, but it’s a good idea to have all your personal documents handy to make sure the process runs smoothly. And to get the best bank account for your needs, compare savings accounts and current accounts before getting started.
Frequently asked questions
A business account isn’t legally required, but it can make it easier to monitor business spending and manage your tax affairs.
Yes, many UK banks allow you to open an account from overseas. You can apply online and start depositing funds into your account, but you may need to visit your bank branch to provide additional documents when you arrive.
Yes, taxes will apply if children earn more than their personal allowance (£12,500 for 2020-21) in a fund in their name, or if they earn more than £100 a year in interest from money given by their parents or legal guardians (but not by another relative or a friend). Learn more in our guide to children’s bank accounts.
You should be able to find this information at the start of your bank’s online application process. Alternatively, you can call your bank directly for details.
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Tim Falk is a freelance writer for Finder. Over the course of his 15-year writing career, he has reported on a wide range of personal finance topics. Whether you're investing in stocks and ETFs, comparing savings accounts or choosing a credit card, Tim wants to make it easier for you to understand. When he’s not staring at his computer, you can usually find him exploring the great outdoors. See full bio
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