No credit history, how to get a bank account?

Elderly_Expat

I'm an expat for the last 35 years. I'm planning a return to the UK. The first thing I want to do is set up a basic bank account. How can I set one up? Can I set it up before I return to the UK?

antrobus

Elderly_Expat wrote: »

I'm an expat for the last 35 years. I'm planning a return to the UK. The first thing I want to do is set up a basic bank account. How can I set one up?

Who do you currently bank with in this foreign jurisdiction?

xylophone

https://transferwise.com/gb/blog/how-to-open-a-bank-account-in-uk

may be worth a look.

MoneySaver123

You'd be surprised actually at just how many banks there are here in the UK!!

My first thought would be to try one of the new online bank accounts that can be setup in a few minutes literally - like Atom etc See: http://www.comparebanks.co.uk/atom-bank/

I've not got a great credit rating and have a few bank accounts. I think the main thing they would all check is the electoral roll...but not 100% sure on the new digital banks.

Have you tried a bank that is in the country you are in as well as the UK?

Anthorn

Elderly_Expat wrote: »

I'm an expat for the last 35 years. I'm planning a return to the UK. The first thing I want to do is set up a basic bank account. How can I set one up? Can I set it up before I return to the UK?

Virgin Money Essential Current Account

pmduk

Anthorn wrote: »

Virgin Money Essential Current Account

As that has to be opened in branch it is probably one of the least suitable for the OP!

glider3560

If you are currently in a EU or EEA country, then you can open a bank account at any bank in the UK. You will probably have to visit a branch with your ID, or post a certified copy.

E.g. Nationwide actually detail the requirements on their website: http://www.nationwide.co.uk/products/current-accounts-eea/our-current-accounts/overview