Open a UK bank account: for staff relocating from outside the UK

When to open your account

We recommend you book an appointment with a local bank as soon as you arrive. Some banks may not offer immediate appointments, and account setup can take several days.

The University is working closely with the banks to try to make the system as seamless as possible, but please be prepared to exercise a little patience and shop around where necessary.

To receive your first salary payment on time, the Salaries team must have your UK bank details before the middle of the month. Check the cut-off and pay dates for current deadlines.

Types of account

Most banks will issue a basic account in the first instance. You may, however, be able to increase the services on offer after a trial period – each institution will be able to provide you with their own guidelines with respect to this.

A basic bank account will enable you to access cash via a cash machine and set up direct debits (automatic payments for regular bills, such as electricity or phone contracts) and standing orders (regular payments you set up yourself, such as rent or transfers to another account).

Choose a bank

You can choose to open an account with either a traditional high street bank or an online-only bank. Both options are suitable for managing your money in the UK, depending on your preferences.

Local bank branches

If you prefer face-to-face support, you may find it helpful to choose a bank with a branch in or near St Andrews. In-person banking can make some services easier to access, especially when you first arrive.

Banks with branches in St Andrews:

• Bank of Scotland, 1 Queen's Gardens, St Andrews KY16 9TD
• Barclays Local, The Library, Church Square, St Andrews KY16 9NN
• Nationwide, 151 Market Street, St Andrews KY16 9PF
• Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS), 113 South Street, St Andrews KY16 9QB
• TSB, 12 Church Street, St Andrews KY16 9NW

Each bank has its own process for opening an account. Most will start you with a basic current account, which typically allows you to:

• withdraw cash from cash machines (ATMs)
• set up standing orders and direct debits
• make in-branch transactions

You may be able to upgrade your account after a short period, depending on the bank’s policies.

Online-only banks

If you are comfortable managing your finances digitally, online-only banks may be a convenient alternative. These banks operate through mobile apps and websites, without physical branches, and often offer faster setup and low or no fees.

Popular online-only banks include:

• Chase – offers cashback on spending and no monthly fees
• Monzo – popular for budgeting features and spending insights
• Revolut – offers multi-currency accounts and international spending options
• Starling Bank – known for excellent customer service and easy account opening

What to expect during the process

Local bank branches

To open your account with a traditional high street bank:

1. Book an appointment with your chosen bank.
2. Attend the appointment and bring the documents requested. You may need a letter from the University to confirm your employment. If so, email your recruitment contact with:
   • your date of birth
   • your current local address
   • your previous international address
3. Complete the application form with the bank’s staff.
4. Wait for your account number, usually issued within 1 to 2 working days. You can only make deposits and withdrawals once this has been issued.
5. Receive your bank card, usually within 5 to 10 working days. This may be posted or collected from the branch.
6. Receive your PIN, usually within another 5 working days. Once you have this, you can use cash machines and pay by card in shops and restaurants.

Until your card arrives, you can make in-branch transactions at your opening branch using your passport as identification.

Online banks

To open an account with an online bank:

• You usually need to download their app and provide proof of identity and a UK address. Some banks may accept a tenancy agreement or employment contract as address proof.
• Your account number and sort code are usually issued within minutes once your identity is verified.
• Your debit card is typically posted to your UK address within 3 to 5 working days.
• Your PIN may be sent separately or accessed securely through the app.
• Most online banks provide a digital card in the app that you can use immediately for online purchases or mobile payments (such as Apple Pay or Google Pay) while you wait for your physical card to arrive.

Bringing money to the UK

Some countries limit how much cash you can take out of your home country. Check your country’s rules before travelling.

We strongly recommend bringing only a small amount of cash for security reasons. Travellers’ cheques are a safer option for carrying money.

Avoid bringing personal cheques drawn on overseas banks. These can take up to 6 to 8 weeks to clear into a UK bank account. If you do bring one, you should also bring enough money by another method to cover your first several weeks in the UK.