How to Open a UK Bank Account Without Proof of Address (Yes, It’s Possible!)

How to Open a UK Bank Account Without Proof of Address (Yes, It’s Possible!)

So, you’ve just arrived in the UK — maybe for work, studies, or a fresh start — and the first thing you need is a bank account. But there’s a problem: you don’t yet have a utility bill, council tax letter, or rental agreement to prove your address.

Don’t worry. You’re not the only one in this boat, and the good news is: you can still open a UK bank account — even without traditional proof of address. In this guide, we’ll walk you through your options and the most migrant-friendly banks that make it easier to get started.

---

Why Do Banks Ask for Proof of Address?

In the UK, banks are legally required to verify your identity and where you live. Typically, they ask for:

Proof of identity: such as your passport or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)

Proof of address: like a utility bill, tenancy agreement, or a council tax letter

But here’s the catch: most newcomers to the UK don’t have these documents right away — and that’s where digital banks come in to save the day.

---

Top 3 Banks That Don’t Require Traditional Proof of Address

1. Monzo

Monzo is a mobile-only bank that’s become super popular with students, newcomers, and even locals.

Why it’s great: Easy sign-up, clean app interface, and no need for paper bills.

What you’ll need: A passport or BRP and a quick selfie video for ID verification.

How to open it: Download the Monzo app → Upload your ID → Record the selfie video → You’re in!

2. Revolut

Revolut is another digital bank known for its international features — great for sending money abroad or managing multiple currencies.

Why it’s great: Low fees for transfers, fast setup, and great for travellers or migrant workers.

What you’ll need: Passport or national ID. Some users report they didn’t need a UK utility bill if they verified via mobile location and ID.

How to open it: Download the Revolut app → Submit your ID → Get verified in minutes.

3. Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Wise is widely used for sending and receiving money across countries, but it also offers a UK-based account with a debit card.

Why it’s great: Real exchange rates, minimal address checks, and ideal for students or part-time workers.

What you’ll need: Valid photo ID. They may ask for a soft proof of where you live, but it can be flexible.

How to open it: Sign up online → Upload your ID → Verify and start banking.

---

Other Helpful Options for Students and Migrants

4. Student Bank Accounts (with a University Letter)

Some traditional UK banks will accept a university enrolment letter that includes your local address.

Banks that may allow this:

Barclays

Lloyds

Santander

Tip: Ask your university admin to print a letter showing your full name and local UK address. Some banks even have templates they’ll accept from specific schools.

---

Alternative Documents You Can Use as Address Proof

If a bank does ask for proof of address, here are some documents they might accept:

A letter from your employer or university

An NHS registration letter (after registering with a GP)

Your BRP card (if it includes your UK address)

A letter from a licensed letting agent confirming your accommodation

---

Bonus Tips for a Smooth Process

Register with a GP early: Your NHS welcome letter is often accepted as proof of address.

Temporarily use a friend’s address (only if it’s safe and legal), and update it once you get your own place.

Go digital: With Monzo, Revolut, or Wise, you get a virtual debit card almost instantly — so you don’t have to carry cash around while you wait.

---

Final Thoughts

Opening a bank account in the UK doesn't have to be a nightmare — even if you're new, don’t have all your documents, or are still waiting on your first tenancy. Thanks to digital banks like Monzo, Revolut, and Wise, getting started with UK banking is faster and easier than ever before.

And remember, you're not alone — UK Buddy is here to guide you every step of the way, from bank accounts to BRPs, job hunting, scholarships, and everything in between.

“Need help opening a Monzo account? Ask our chatbot for the direct link.”

“Check out LemFi for fast money transfers — just type ‘LemFi’ in the chat!”

---

Written with support from ChatGPT, based on publicly available information from banks and UK migration resources. Always check with the individual bank for the latest requirements