Student studying abroad

Paperpumpkin

My son is going to be studying in Portugal for 6 months and we'd like advice on how best to manage his money cost effectively. He's been declined a Halifax Clarity card, and an Aqua card. Should he open a Portuguese bank account (although he's read he needs a Portuguese "tax ID number" for this)? Or just use his British bank account/card for cash and spending? If so, is there a "best" British account for spending abroad? He'll need cash, spending on purchases, and also paying his rent (possibly by direct debit). He isn't the first to study abroad, but it's difficult to find guidance anywhere on setting up his finances abroad. Any advice anyone?

Flugelhorn

http://www.esnportugal.org/content/novo-banco this bank seems to have a service for students.

Much of it sounds like the process DS had to follow in germany, ie register with the local authority and get official proof of address

PS took about 4 weeks to sort it all so make sure he has plenty of cash

Voyager2002

There are several solutions: see if he can open an account with Metrobank. Or perhaps you can open a joint account with him. Or maybe you could get a Halifax Clarity card and make him an additional card-holder.