Many employers pay by cheque or bank transfer and it is therefore essential to have a UK bank account. Over the last few years it has become more difficult to open a UK bank account because of concerns about money laundering and terrorism.

What banks require to open an account: Banks require 'proof' of a UK address and some form of personal identification. The 'proof' of UK address can be an 'official' document with your name/address on it, such as a letter from a bank or electricity bill; for personal ID a passport, national ID card is acceptable.

How to open an account: For most people arriving in the UK it is difficult to obtain an official letter with name/UK address on it. A solution is to ask your bank in your own country to change the address on your account to your UK address and send you at least one letter to this address. If you take this letter and your national ID card/passport to a bank it should be possible to open an account.

Notes: - there is normally no cost to open an account; a minimum balance may be required.
- it is usually easier to open an account without credit card or cheque book; you can always add these later.