How to open a UK bank account

You may find it useful to open a UK bank account as it can be easier to manage your finances and it could save you money.

Before you start

Please contact your bank of choice first as you may need to make an appointment in advance. 

If you do decide to open a UK bank account we recommend bringing enough funds in UK currency to cover your expenses for the first few weeks, in case of delays in opening your new  account.

Things to consider:

  • Does your current bank operate in the UK? If so it could be easier to open an account and stay with the same bank
  • Is there a branch near to the university? You don't want to choose a bank that's miles away from your university. Having a branch of your bank close to the university is very convenient if you need to speak to a member of staff or you are making regular transactions.
  • Cost of international transfers . Will your bank charge you to send and receive money from home?

What do I need to do to open a UK bank account?

1. Choose a bank

  • There are a wide range of banks in the UK offering different interest rates and services so it’s important to do your research.
  • It might be useful to use a comparison website to check which bank meets your exact needs. It might also be worthwhile comparing internet banks.

2. Download your student status letter from Kent Vision

  • ‘My Communications and Documents’ à ‘My Documents’ à Download status letter addressed to your bank.
  •  Email statusletters@kent.ac.uk if you are unable to download from your Kent Vision portal.

3.  Documentation needed to open a bank account:

  • Passport (and visa if required) or EU identity card
  • Original letter of acceptance to the University
  • Evidence of programme of study and length of programme
  • Your room agreement *(not all banks)
  • Status Letter (see above). 

Local branches of the main national banks

Canterbury

  • Barclays
  • Halifax
  • HSBC
  • Lloyds
  • TSB
  • NatWest
  • RBS
  • Santander 

Medway (Chatham and Gillingham) 

  • Barclays
  • Halifax
  • HSBC
  • Lloyds 
  • TSB
  • RBS
  • Santander
Last updated