How long does it take to open a RBS bank account?

Nimbleberryfinn

Just that really, trying to open an account, got all the way through to the online ID verification thing which it says both parts were passed successfully and that they'll be in touch - just wondering how long it's going to take.

flaneurs_lobster

A current account? About a week, maybe a little longer to get the debit card/PIN.

Lightning360

Really didn't take long for me. Took less than 48 hours to get into the app and I got my card in about 5 days, although you can add it to Google Wallet before then.

roose0

According to RBS, on average, 1 day to have the account number, 2 days to have the debit card, and 8 days to have internet banking.

Published on 15/05/2025: http://rbs.co.uk/servicemeasures-personal

Marksfish

Opened mine on the 17th, account number same day. Available in the app within 48 hours. Debit card 2 days later and PIN today. Switch should complete tomorrow.

Digital_Payback

Signed up for an RBS Current Acc yesterday, Friday 25th. Account up and running this morning (26th) with app. access. Debit Card being prepared, PIN available in app. Very impressed so far. 

On signing up for the current account I requested a switch from Metro Bank and furnished the Metro acc. details and debit card number, but I’ve had no info or email from RBS about the switch process being underway.

Can anyone who signed up with RBS, and switched, detail the process or what happens next?
Thanks. 

PRAISETHESUN

When I got referred for manual ID checks a few years back, it took a bit longer than usual. Digidocs didn't like me so I ended up providing ID in branch. Took about 2-3 weeks from applying to account opening. A whole bunch of letters arrived all at once, so I don't recall how long it was between account opening and online banking access. I'd hope it's faster these days, but sounds like maybe not

confederated

Digital_Payback said:

Can anyone who signed up with RBS, and switched, detail the process or what happens next?
Thanks. 

They're not at all communicative about switches. I wasn't even told when the switch would start - I had to call them to ask for my switch date. I seem to remember I received a couple of SMS messages along the way. You might get a letter in the post at some point, but well after it's useful.

I have no idea of your age, but RBS/NatWest has an 'over 60s' telephone number which gets you through to someone in the UK very quickly.

Digital_Payback

confederated said:

Digital_Payback said:

Can anyone who signed up with RBS, and switched, detail the process or what happens next?
Thanks. 

They're not at all communicative about switches. I wasn't even told when the switch would start - I had to call them to ask for my switch date. I seem to remember I received a couple of SMS messages along the way. You might get a letter in the post at some point, but well after it's useful.

I have no idea of your age, but RBS/NatWest has an 'over 60s' telephone number which gets you through to someone in the UK very quickly.

I would qualify for that number!! 😀😀

confederated

The over 60s phone number is 0800 051 4177. IMO it effectively makes RBS/NatWest as good as FirstDirect in respect of phone support. For younger members they do know your age, so you can't use the number if you're under 60!

Digital_Payback

confederated said:

The over 60s phone number is 0800 051 4177. IMO it effectively makes RBS/NatWest as good as FirstDirect in respect of phone support. For younger members they do know your age, so you can't use the number if you're under 60!

Thank you, Confederated, for the info and the Tel. No.