Opening a bank account
Opening a UK bank account is one of the first things most international students do upon arrival in the UK, and it is something we recommend for all students who plan to be in the UK for six months or more.
Opening a bank account in the UK will enable you to manage your money more easily. It is necessary for paying your rent and bills, transferring money from overseas, and if you decide to work part-time whilst in the UK it is likely that your employer will pay your wages into your bank account. It is also useful for students who need to make a visa application in the UK.
Read our guidance on Opening a UK Bank Account to find out useful information on:
- the documents you will need to open a bank account
- how to choose a bank account
- the contact details of some local banks.
Also see the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) website for more information about opening a bank account.
