How to build my credit after moving to the UK after a year ago.

michaelionheart

Hi, been living in the UK since Feb 2021 and I have no credit score over here. I've tried applying for credit cards to build my credit score but I seem to be going around in circles the only card I seem to be eligible for is the Tesco credit card however i'm having issues getting a certified passport copy for their identity checks. I've also tried signing up for Experian and clear score but I need to have lived here for a couple more years. Does anyone have any idea how I can build my credit score?

[Deleted User]

Credit scores aren't used in the UK. Instead, you need to build a credit history, through sensible use of credit, being on the ER (if applicable) and ensuring utility payments are up to date.

You're likely to face the same issues with ID with any financial institution, so you need to work on getting valid ID.

michaelionheart

I already have valid ID. I have my BRP card and my provisional driving license. I'm on the ER but I live with my wifes mother atm so all the bills are in her name. 

Thrugelmir

Credit history can only be built over time. There's no shortcuts. 

[Deleted User]

michaelionheart said:

I already have valid ID. I have my BRP card and my provisional driving license. 

You said you were having trouble providing a copy to Tesco.

You need to sort some valid ID for them.

michaelionheart

Deleted_User said:

michaelionheart said:

I already have valid ID. I have my BRP card and my provisional driving license. 

You said you were having trouble providing a copy to Tesco.

You need to sort some valid ID for them.

Yes to get my documents certified. For some reason they wont accept the copies I gave them from the post office. They want certified copies from the bank/GP but none of the banks or the GP near me does that lol.

[Deleted User]

You'll need to go further afield then lol.

Without providing valid ID, you're not going to be able to get credit, or a lot of other things.

[Deleted User]

michaelionheart said:

Deleted_User said:

michaelionheart said:

I already have valid ID. I have my BRP card and my provisional driving license. 

You said you were having trouble providing a copy to Tesco.

You need to sort some valid ID for them.

Yes to get my documents certified. For some reason they wont accept the copies I gave them from the post office. They want certified copies from the bank/GP but none of the banks or the GP near me does that lol.

You'll probably have to look through the requirements, traditionally a lawyer or similar professional could sign them off but it depends if they want a person who knows you. Maybe start with a basic online account like Monzo or Starling and go from there, I did hear they are less fussy

Brie

Can you get a manager at the local Tesco Extra countersign the ID proofs?

If that doesn't work trying logging a complaint as there is absolutely no reason why they shouldn't accept the certified copy from the post office.  

Meanwhile - can you get a mobile phone on contract?  Some have said previously that might help.  And then perhaps apply to one of the dreadful high risk cards - Aqua, Vanquis etc that charge 50% APR.  They aren't actually dreadful if you pay them off in full each month.

Good luck - I've been exactly where you are and it's a proper fuss.

PRAISETHESUN

I had similar issues when I first moved to the UK - getting my foot in the door was the hardest bit but it all went smoothly from then. I had success with the LUMA card by Capital One as my first card (https://www.luma.co.uk/) in case that's of use to you. All electronic checks, no certified ID required - I'd been in the UK for about 12 months at that point and had a bank account and was on the ER. 

As with Tesco, I'd be complaining. There's no reason why they shouldn't be accepting documents certified at the Post Office. Alternatively look into getting something else that they will accept as primary ID that you can provide the original of rather than a certified copy (if it's just the certification that's the issue) - eg. a letter from HMRC or something? Have a look on their website for what they will accept.