How do you open a bank account in the United Kingdom in 2026?

Bring a valid passport or accepted identity card, eVisa evidence where relevant, UK phone number, personal email, current address, tax-residence details, and information about work, income, and expected account use.

Banks often request address evidence such as a tenancy document, council-tax bill, utility bill, government letter, employer letter, or health-service registration letter. Accepted age and format differ by provider.

If your name uses a different order or spelling across documents, explain it before the automated check. Do not edit an official statement to make it fit.

A current account handles salary, cards, transfers, direct debits, and standing orders. A basic bank account offers core payments without an overdraft and can suit someone with limited UK credit history.

Compare monthly fees, cash withdrawal, international transfers, card use abroad, branch access, app support, overdraft cost, and whether the provider belongs to the UK deposit-protection system.

Digital providers can be convenient, while a branch may help when address or immigration documents need human review. Verify every firm on the official financial-services register.

Receive the account number and sort code, then add salary or benefit details only through trusted channels. A sort code identifies the bank branch or routing destination.

Set a strong unique password, enable device security, and keep card passcodes and one-time login codes private. A bank will not ask you to move money to a "safe account."

Update your address promptly after moving. Keep the first statement because it may become useful UK address evidence.

Before sending money from abroad, compare the receiving details and exchange cost. Start with a small transfer if the route or account information is new.