Written by Dyami Millarson

When staying in the UK, it is convenient to have a local bank account. However, if one wishes to open a bank account at a physical UK local bank, one has to go through the hassle of providing proof of address (usually two proofs). So if one does not want to provide proof of address, there are a few alternatives for obtaining a UK bank account:

1. TransferWise
2. Monzo
3. Monese
4. Revolut

Based on the signing up process, I find TransferWise the most convenient personally because one does not need to download the app for signing up, although downloading it is required for activating the debit cards after they have arrived. However, when one opts for Monzo, Monese or Revolut, one is required to sign up using the respective apps. TransferWise and the rest provide UK bank sort codes, bank numbers and debit cards, which is what one may need for staying in the UK. One should bear in mind that one does need to have an address where one may receive the debit cards, whether that is a hostel, rented house or PO box in the UK or a residential address abroad.

Bonus tip: it is possible for EU citizens to use a Bunq travel card as well, which is a kind of MasterCard that is relatively easy and cheap to obtain. However, one needs to download the Bunq app to apply for the Bunq travel card. The process is pretty much the same as with TransferWise. Personally I really like how Bunq works, I find the Bunq app quite convenient for use.