I'm a Canadian volunteering in the UK, how can I get a bank account?

PawlTheCone

I'm a Canadian volunteering in the UK on an Ancestry Visa, I get housing and some expenses covered but no salary. I do need a bank account though, how would I go about getting a bank account when I'm neither technically employed or a student. Is there any way I can get a bank account anywhere in my situation?

innovate

Have you goolged uk bank accounts for foreign nationals?

Have you tried any bank yet?

Usually a valid passport and proof of UK address is sufficient for at least a basic bank account.

PawlTheCone

I asked at HSBC and when I said I was on an Ancestry Visa they gave me the options of student or working. I went with working (which fell through for unrelated and now fixed reasons), but part of it would have involved entering a salary etc. I just assumed that saying I was volunteering wouldn't cut it because I'm here on a work Visa. I can get proof of residence in a letter from where I'm volunteering which is useful. Essentially I'm wondering what I would say to the banks as my work status that they would allow me to get an account with.

tyllwyd

I wonder if you might have more luck applying for a basic bank account
http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/banking/basic-bank-accounts

PawlTheCone

Yeah, I'll look into that, thanks!

pmduk

Your bank home in Canada may be able to introduce you to a British bank with more success.

kirkbyinfurnesslad_2

Just go for a basic building society account...

rjrs0510

HSBC has a passport account for people new to the UK (International students etc). I think there is a monthly fee, but if you check out there website, you need a passport and proof of your overseas address to open the account.

henm2

Go back to the HSBC and ask to open a basic account not a passport account. (no fee for a basic account)
You will need your passport as ID and a proof of address such as employers letter confirming your address details. If you are staying with a friend then a letter from them supported by current council tax bill for them will also be sufficient to confirm address.
Although there is no cheque book or credit facilities such as overdraft available with a basic account you will get everything else including a debit card.