Whether you’ve come to study or to work in the UK, it’s best to apply for a British bank account. This will not only make your life much easier in the UK, but also allows you to use bank letters as proof of address. And a bank statement is essential when you apply for a Schengen visa. So, let's get into how to open a bank account.
We should quickly mention the different types of British bank accounts. Bank accounts are generally divided into two types: current accounts and saving accounts. As students, the account we usually want to open is a basic student current account that comes with a debit card.
When you decide which bank to open an account with, you often need to go to a physical branch to make an appointment to open your account. The process looks like:
Receive bank letter from university;
Make an appointment online or offline: remember to ask what materials you need to bring when making an appointment.
Open an account with necessary documents online or offline, and set a password;
The card will be mailed to your address.
What you normally need are (Please check with the details with the bank you made appointment):
Your passport with student visa (if that is appropriate)
The letter from your university confirming your UK study details
Proof of your address in the UK.
After successfully opening an account, the bank will send a letter to the address you provided, including your card and pin number (generally, the card and password are sent separately). After receiving them, you can activate the account to use the Online Banking service. Members suggested that you must open online banking or mobile banking, so that you can manage your money anytime and anywhere even if you are not in the UK and cannot go to the bank.
In addition to the common British banks, there are many "virtual network banks" in the UK, among which "online celebrity Bank Card" Monzo is highly praised by everyone! Card processing can be done online for everything, avoiding the trouble of running back and forth to the bank. After getting the card, you can enjoy the real-time exchange rate of overseas credit card, free cash withdrawal amount, and efficient and humanised customer service.
For more information, check out these links:
To get in touch please email chris.cambell@transformationsleeds.org.uk
