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Opening a UK bank account after moving to London
The right account should make salary, rent and everyday payments simple without exposing you to unnecessary fees or fraud.
Prepare the likely documents
Providers set their own checks, but identity, address and immigration information may be requested.
Read the bank’s current list before an appointment.
On this page
Compare the everyday basics
Look at monthly fees, cash access, international transfer costs, overdraft terms, app controls and whether the account fits how you are paid.
Use a staged setup
A basic account may solve immediate needs while you build address and financial history.
Do not open several accounts simply for promotional offers.
Protect the account
Never move money because an unexpected caller tells you to.
Use the number in the official app or on the bank’s website and enable transaction alerts.
Match the account to the first year
New arrivals often need salary payments, rent, direct debits and low-cost international transfers before they need credit features.
Compare accounts around those tasks. Check cash withdrawal access, card replacement, customer support and how address changes are handled.
A polished app is useful, but it does not replace deposit protection, clear fees and a provider that fits the way money will actually move.
Build a clean financial record
Use consistent personal details across employer, tax, tenancy and banking records.
Review statements, keep enough money for direct debits and correct unfamiliar transactions quickly. Avoid unnecessary overdraft use and repeated applications.
A stable record makes everyday administration easier and may help later applications, but no bank account alone guarantees access to credit or a particular product.
Recognise payment fraud
Banks do not need you to move money to a so-called safe account.
Pause when a caller creates urgency, asks for codes or knows partial personal information. End the call and contact the provider through its official app or a number you found independently.
For transfers to a landlord or business, confirm changed payment details by a second trusted channel before sending funds.
Continue exploring
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