Opening a bank account with minimal ID

marcia_

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82021076#Comment_82021076

That will be huge problem for most banks and credit providers.

pfpf

purely form the ID PoV and not considering other factors. in the last week i have opened:

Ulster Current Account

Chase Current Account

Sum-Up Pay Account.

all do what you need and all require just a Photo ID and a live "likeness" check.

Lost_Soal_666

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82021114#Comment_82021114

so where do i go to sign up with these 3 banks please?

friolento

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82021076#Comment_82021076

It's easy to get onto it, and it could get rather costly if you are not https://www.gov.uk/electoral-register

NB. don't worry, it's nothing to do with electrics 😀

friolento

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82021079#Comment_82021079

It's all explained here https://www.gov.uk/find-national-insurance-number

friolento

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82021083#Comment_82021083

You need to check the ID requirements of a given bank. They generally all publish these requirements on their respective website.

friolento

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82021423#Comment_82021423

You go to their website / app and apply.

You are unlikely to get very far if you are not on the Electoral Register, so get this done first.

If you draw blanks with banks, you might have more luck with a Credit Union. You can find which Credit Unions operate in your area by googling.

Cisco001

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82021423#Comment_82021423

Online or app.

I believe Ulster bank is for Northern Ireland?

If you want a high street bank, find one with a branch close to you.

You could consider a basic bank account if you don't have much credit history.

Alternatively, if you want digital/ app base bank, Starling, Mozo are easy to apply.

wmb194

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82021482#Comment_82021482

You can live in other parts of the UK and have an Ulster Bank account.

imtiazahmad

In the UK you usually can’t open a bank account with very minimal ID anymore because of anti–money laundering rules.

Most banks want at least proof of identity and proof of address. So typically something like a passport or driving licence, plus a recent utility bill, bank statement, or council tax letter.

If you don’t have standard documents, some banks or fintech apps (like Monzo or Starling) can sometimes verify you digitally or accept alternatives, but you still need something official. If you’re really stuck, a basic “fee-free” account or an onboarding appointment at a branch can sometimes help them work with what you’ve got.