If you’re just moving to London and haven’t rented a house yet, you may not have immediate access to proofs of address such as utility bills or rental agreements that you might require for things such as opening a new bank account. But worry not – you are not alone in facing this conundrum, and there are various alternative options you can explore to satisfy the bank’s requirements for proof of address:
- Temporary Accommodation Confirmation: If you’re staying in temporary accommodation, such as a hotel, hostel, or Airbnb, you can request a confirmation letter from the establishment. This letter should include your name, the address where you’re staying, and the duration of your stay. But check with the bank first if they will accept this as aproof of address.
- Employer’s Confirmation: Your employer may be able to provide a letter confirming your employment and stating your current address. This can serve as a temporary proof of address until you find more permanent accommodation.
- Letter from Educational Institution: If you’re a student or moving to London for educational purposes, your school or university may issue a letter confirming your enrollment and stating your address in London.
- Bank Statements from Overseas: Some banks may accept recent bank statements from your home country as proof of address, especially if they’re issued by a reputable financial institution. Check with the bank you’re interested in to see if they accept this option.
- Letter from a UK Resident: In some cases, banks may accept a letter from a UK resident who can confirm your address. This person should be someone you know and trust, and their letter should include their own proof of address and contact details.
Pro tip: Some online banks (Revolut / Monzo / etc.) may be more flexible with the proof of address requirements – so might be worth checking them out before the high-street banks!
It’s essential to check with the specific bank you’re interested in to see which alternative options they accept for proof of address. Additionally, be prepared to provide additional forms of identification and any other documentation the bank may require. All the best!