How do I open a bank account in the UK?
Step 1
Register onto your course online. After arriving, complete your identity check on campus (come see us with your passport/e-visa share code/travel ticket).
You can only open a bank account once you are fully registered.
Step 2
Apply for your national insurance number online using this website. You will then receive your national insurance number by post, as a letter, so make sure you indicate the correct address!
Step 3
Download your ‘bank letter’ showing your UK address
(1) Log into your Chiview account
(2) Check that your UK address appears on the portal
(3) Find the tile called ‘printable documents’ > ‘bank letter’ > Add the bank’s address
(4) Print the document (contact us if you need help)
Step 4
Visit the local branch of the bank. You might be able to open an account directly, or the bank might ask you to book an appointment.
You should bring:
– your passport
– your e-visa share code
– your University of Chichester printed bank letter, showing your UK address
– your national insurance number if you have one. Some banks may ask for it.
Using a bank account is the safest and most effective way of managing your money and making or receiving payments, so you should open a bank account once you arrive in the UK.
Opening your account may take up to three weeks, so make sure you have access to money (payment card) you will need during this time.
Please note that on our University campus, shops only accept card payments.
We are here to help! Email international@chi.ac.uk
