Students may open bank accounts with any of the established banks. However, in recent years, it has become more difficult to open accounts due to the introduction of new regulations designed to prevent offences known as money laundering.

British banks require proof of the following:

• The applicant’s identity. A passport or EU identity card will prove this.
• The applicant’s UK address. The usual item requested is a utility bill in the applicant’s name, such as electricity, or a letter or document issued by a government agency such as Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) or the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).
• Some banks will accept a recent bank statement from the applicant’s overseas bank in place of the items in (2).

Any student who has difficulty with Bank accounts should consult the staff at REGENT IGS for advice and support.