Opening a bank account in the UK can seem difficult to navigate, especially if you're not sure whether the documentation you have is acceptable or whether a bad credit rating will complicate things.

But if you’re wondering “What do I need to open a bank account in the UK?!” don’t worry.

In this article, we'll break down exactly what documentation you need for different types of accounts. We also explore the steps to open a bank account in the UK more generally.

How to open a bank account in the UK

Opening a bank account in the UK requires several steps which are completed either in a branch or online. While different institutions will have slightly varying rules, the process is generally similar.

First, you'll need to gather the required documents. These usually consist of a combination of proof of ID and proof of address. We'll cover exactly what you need in detail in the next section.

Next, you'll need to complete an application form of some description. For traditional accounts with old-fashioned banks, these can be fairly lengthy. Some online applications for accounts like prepaid cards such as Pockit can be done much quicker.

After completing your application and providing the required documents, you'll have to wait for verification and approval. With high street banks, this can take anywhere between a few days to a couple of weeks.

Meanwhile, prepaid cards can be approved much quicker. For instance, Pockit's Prepaid Card can be approved in as little as 3 minutes.

Once you've been approved you're free to start using your account. Some account types require a small initial deposit to open so keep this in mind.

How to choose the right type of bank account

In the UK, there are multiple kinds of bank accounts aimed at people in different circumstances. It's key to choose an account type that you will be eligible for based on your circumstances, such as your credit rating or length of credit history.

If you're wondering why can't I get a credit card in the UK, it’s probably due to bad credit or no credit history. Credit providers need to see a strong credit history before offering credit services like credit cards and loans.

For a bank account with no credit check, look into basic accounts. These tend not to come with additional features like cashback and don't offer the future scope for credit services as your history builds. However, you will usually be able to get one with little or no credit history.

Prepaid cards are a great option for people without a credit history or with bad credit. You pay in the money in advance which means you don’t need to pass any checks.

They also tend to come with better benefits than basic bank accounts and, in some cases, you can use them to build your credit score.

Can I open a bank account with bad credit?

Having bad credit, complications like CIFAS markers on your credit file, and issues like bankruptcy don't automatically prevent you from opening a bank account, but they can make it more difficult.

Banks have their own policies regarding people applying for new accounts, and they might do more thorough checks if they see something like CIFAS markers on your file.

Similarly, if you have been declared bankrupt your credit rating will have been negatively impacted.  This can make getting certain types of accounts more difficult.

Prepaid cards are a good option if any of these circumstances apply to you, as they don't require credit checks.

Check out our guide to prepaid cards for a deeper look at how you can use and build credit with these.

What documents do you need to open a bank account in the UK?  

Wondering what documents do I need to open a bank account in the UK? Read on…

Whenever you open a bank account in the UK, banks generally require a combination of documents to prove your identity and your address.

If you're from outside the European Union, you might also have to provide documents that state your right to be in the UK, like Visa status documents or Biometric Residence Permits.

We've created this handy guide to help you navigate which documents are and aren't accepted when you open a bank account in the UK.

Commonly accepted identification includes:

• Valid passport
• Driving licence (UK or EU)
• Identity card (EU)
• Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
• Armed Forces UK ID Card
• Birth certificate (With some organizations like Pockit!)
• ARC Card

Unacceptable forms of ID include:

• National Insurance Card
• Blue Badge

You'll find very few banks that don't need proof of address.

When it comes to, how to get proof of address, commonly accepted proof of address documents include:

• Utility Bills (electricity, water, gas, etc.)
• Mobile phone bill
• Council tax bill
• Bank statements
• Tenancy agreement or mortgage statement
• TV License Letter
• Official government letters (e.g., HMRC correspondence like HMRC Tax Credit Letter, DVLA correspondence)
• Benefits Letter (Sometimes accepted)
• DWP Letter
• Insurance Policy Agreement (Sometimes accepted)
• Court Letter (Sometimes accepted)

Unacceptable forms of address include:

• IVA
• Employer Pay Slip
• NHS Letter
• P45, P60, P11D
• Probation Letter

Pockit accepts over 10 types of proof of address. You can find a full list here.

Can you apply for a bank account without ID?

In most cases, no, you can't get a bank account without ID. Banks have stringent 'Know Your Customer' (KYC) regulations to protect against fraud and ensure financial transactions are secure.

When you go to open an account, you'll normally need at least one form of primary identification.

Do banks accept birth certificates as ID?

In general, banks don't accept birth certificates as proof of ID. They can be used as supplementary information but, due to not being photographic, they are not usually a suitable primary ID.

One of the great benefits of Pockit’s prepaid accounts is that you can apply with just a birth certificate and two proof of address documents.

You'll also have access to amazing benefits like:

Cashback Rewards

• Get up to 15% cashback and discounts with selected high-street brands.
• Get 2.5% back on all other spending & Direct Debits on the first £100 spent.
• Save up to £264 on mobile, TV & broadband bills.

Purchase Protection

• Protect your eligible purchases of up to £1,000 in case of damage, theft, or returns.
• Refund up to £1,500 of unused tickets if eligible.
• Extend warranty by 12 months for brown goods.

Apply today and you could be approved in as little as 3 minutes!

FAQs

Are there banks that don't need proof of address?

In general, no. You always need proof of address to open a bank account.

Can I open a bank account without photo ID?

Most traditional banks require formal photographic ID, but prepaid accounts like Pockit's can be opened with non-photo IDs like birth certificates.

What bank does not do a credit check to open an account?

Basic accounts with major providers generally don't require a hard credit check. Prepaid cards such as Pockit also don’t run any type of check.

Can I open a bank account in the UK if I am not a resident?

As a non-resident, you can open any bank account in the UK that doesn’t require a credit history. One great option to look into is Pockit’s prepaid account which can be set up quickly and comes with extra benefits.