If you’re a freelancer working remotely from outside the UK, your traditional banking options will be similar to opening a personal UK bank account for non-residents. You can open a business account online without being a UK resident as long as you’re a director of a company registered with UK Companies House.
What documents do you need to open a bank account in UK?
To open a UK bank account, you’ll need two documents: one to prove your identity and one to prove your address. This applies both in-branch and online. Proving your identity is simple. You just need your passport, driving licence or identity card (if you’re an EU national).
What happens if money is paid into a closed bank account?
The money transfer will be declined Frequently, banks will notice a faulty account number or closed account and direct deposits will be returned to the sender or declined. If the closed account does not exist however, or the recipient claims the money belongs to them, an investigation could commence.
All of the main UK banks now offer their services online and via mobile banking apps, so you can choose to run your bank account remotely. There are also online-only and mobile-only banks in the UK. See our guide to mobile banking in the UK for more information.
Where can I open an account in the UK?
Many major UK banks also have so-called ‘international’ accounts. These are designed specifically for non-residents, so they’re a great option if you don’t have the documents to prove your UK address. In fact, you can even apply for an international account online. Barclays, Lloyds, HSBC and NatWest all offer international bank accounts.
How to get a US bank account in the UK?
Activate your dollar accounts in the UK and any other currency accounts you require. Get your USD bank account details – including wire number, routing number and account number. Upload funds, receive incoming payments and, in some cases, even order your debit card to start sending from your USD account in the UK.
Do you need a debit card to open a bank account in the UK?
Online bank accounts are great if you simply need to have an account in Pound Sterling with a UK account number and sort code, and many, such as Wise’s Multi-Currency Account and Revolut, also offer debit cards. But if you want or need a bank where you can actually walk into a branch, then you’ll want to consider a traditional bank.
Can a non UK resident open a bank account in the UK?
Yes, you can. Your home bank may be able to set up an account for you if it has a correspondent banking relationship with a British bank. Many major UK banks also have so-called ‘international’ accounts. These are designed specifically for non-residents, so they’re a great option if you don’t have the documents to prove your UK address.
