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Not sure why you would persist with HSBC when Wise works quicker and cheaper. It used to be possible to open a Wise account in 15 minutes online from anywhere, not six months and countless contacts. Wise will issue a UK account number into which a state pension could be paid, unless I’m much mistaken. Wise will also issue an EU account number, and you’ll transfer money from one to the other a lot cheaper than HSBC would. As to Wise and NSI, I’ve read NSI will send money to Wise, but not accept it from Wise.
Or try NatWest against again but apply via a smartphone or iPad. Their cameras work more reliably with online applications than PC webcams.
So, I tried NatWest 'cause their income/capital requirements were achievable for me. Got to a point in their online application where they required a "selfie" via my system. I have a camera attached to my PC but despite turning various lights on/off, sitting closer/further away, changing backgound etc. the computer said NO. But the online application stated that if you had a problem just click on a link and there was an alternative - did that, filled in all my details - again (another 15 mintes of my life I won't get back - and ended up at the same page asking for a "selfie" again. Tried ringing NatWest and, basically, told that they didn't really understand the problem but if I couldn't do what their system wanted then sorry, but they couldn't help.
