Opening a UK Bank Account as an International Student 

Opening a local bank account is essential for managing your finances while studying in the UK. It allows you to receive scholarships, pay rent and bills, avoid foreign transaction fees, and work part-time if needed.

Why You Need a UK Bank Account

• Receive scholarship/stipend money
• Pay rent and tuition without foreign exchange fees
• Avoid international transaction charges
• Work part-time and get paid by UK employers
• Easier online shopping and subscriptions (e.g., Amazon, Spotify UK)

Documents Required

You’ll need the following to open a student bank account in the UK:

• Valid Passport
• UK Student Visa / BRP (Biometric Residence Permit)
• Proof of UK Address (e.g. tenancy agreement, utility bill)
• Proof of Student Status / Enrolment Letter
  • Issued by your UK university
  • Often includes your UK address
• UK mobile number

Best UK Banks for International Students (2025)

Here are the top banks offering student-friendly accounts with useful perks:

Note: Some digital banks may not require proof of address and offer quicker setup but may have limited services.

How to Open a Bank Account – Step-by-Step

Choose a Bank

• Compare services, location, and perks
• Some banks are easier to access near your university

Book an Appointment or Apply Online

• You can often apply online and verify documents at the branch
• For banks like Monzo or Starling, the entire process is online

Collect and Submit Documents

• Upload or present passport, BRP, proof of address, and student status

Wait for Approval

• Most accounts are approved within 3–7 business days
• Debit card arrives by post within 5–10 days

Debit Card, Online Banking & Mobile App

Once your account is set up, you will get:

• A contactless debit card
• Access to online/mobile banking
• Bank account number and sort code (for receiving payments)

Note: Set up Apple Pay or Google Pay for quick payments.

Tips for International Students

• Open a student account instead of a regular current account: better perks and overdrafts
• Use your UK university address if you haven’t found permanent housing yet
• Make sure you can receive post (debit card & PIN) at your registered address
• Get a UK mobile number: some banks require SMS verification
• If your student visa is short-term (<6 months), some banks may not allow account opening: consider digital-only banks like Wise or Revolut

Alternatives: International & Digital Banks

If you need to open an account quickly or before arriving in the UK: