Yes, you can open a US bank account from the UK, but the process depends on what kind of account you want and why
Most major US banks will not open a checking or savings account for you while you are in the UK. They require you to be physically present in a US branch, or they require a US address and a US tax identification number (usually a Social Security Number). Some banks have made exceptions during specific periods, but this is not standard practice.
Your realistic options are: open an account in person once you arrive in the US, use a digital bank that serves both countries, or open an account through a US employer or educational institution before you move. The path that works depends on when you need the account and whether you have a US connection already.
Key Takeaways
- Traditional US banks require either a US address or a Social Security Number, which you cannot get until you arrive in the country.
- Digital banks and fintech companies are more likely to open accounts for UK residents, though they may still ask for a US tax ID or require you to move money in from a US source.
- If you are moving to the US for work or study, your employer or university may help you open an account before you arrive.
- Opening an account in person at a US branch within days of arrival is the most straightforward route for most people.
- You will need a valid passport, proof of your US address (even a temporary one), and often a second form of ID to open an account in person.
Why US banks will not open accounts remotely for UK residents
US banks are required by federal law to verify your identity and your tax status. The standard way they do this is by checking your Social Security Number against IRS records. If you do not have a Social Security Number yet, they cannot complete this verification remotely.
Banks also need a US address to send statements and tax documents. A UK address does not work for this purpose. Some banks will accept a temporary US address (like a hotel or an address you will move into), but they still need proof that you will actually be at that address.
A few online banks have experimented with opening accounts for people outside the US, but this is rare and usually requires either a US phone number, a US address, or proof that you are moving to the US imminently.
Digital banks and fintech companies with more flexible requirements
Some digital-only banks are more willing to work with people in the UK who are planning to move to the US. These include Wise (formerly TransferWise), Revolut, and some newer fintech companies. However, "more willing" does not mean they will definitely open a full US checking account for you.
Wise, for example, allows UK residents to hold a US bank account number and routing number, but this is technically a virtual account held through a partner bank. You can receive money into it and transfer it out, but it is not a traditional checking account with a debit card you can use in US stores.
Revolut offers a US account option to some users, but availability varies by region and changes frequently. Check their current terms before assuming this will work for you.
Opening an account through your employer or university
If you are moving to the US for work, your employer may have a relationship with a specific bank and may be able to help you open an account before you arrive. Some large employers sponsor accounts specifically for relocating employees. Ask your HR department whether this is available.
Similarly, if you are moving for university, the institution may have an arrangement with a local or national bank. Contact the international student office or the financial aid office to ask. Some universities require students to open an account at a specific bank as part of the enrollment process.
This route is the fastest if it is available to you, because the employer or university is essentially vouching for your identity and address.
What you will need to open an account in person once you arrive
Once you are in the US, opening an account is straightforward. You will need:
- A valid passport (your UK passport is acceptable)
- Proof of your US address — this can be a lease, a utility bill, a letter from your employer, or even a temporary address like a hotel confirmation if you have just arrived
- A second form of ID if the bank asks for it — a UK driver's license works
- Your Social Security Number, if you have one; if not, you can explore for one at a Social Security office and the bank can often help you open the account while your process is pending
Most banks will open a basic checking account on the same day you visit. You may be able to get a debit card when ready or within a few business days. Some banks offer a temporary card number you can use online while you wait for the physical card to arrive.
Getting a Social Security Number before opening an account
You cannot get a Social Security Number until you are in the US. You will need to visit a Social Security Administration office in person with your passport and proof of your US address. The process takes about 15 minutes, and you will receive a temporary number on the spot; the official card arrives by mail within two weeks.
Many banks will open an account for you even if you do not have a Social Security Number yet, as long as you have applied for one and can show proof of the process. Some banks ask you to come back and update your information once the number arrives. This is normal and not a problem.
If you are moving for work, your employer may be able to help you get a Social Security Number faster by providing documentation that you are authorized to work in the US.
Which banks are easiest to work with as a new arrival
Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank have branches everywhere and straightforward account-opening processes. They do not require you to have a history in the US. You walk in with your passport and proof of address, and you walk out with an account.
Regional banks and credit unions may have slightly different requirements, but most will open an account for you in person without difficulty. Some credit unions require you to live or work in their service area, so check this before you visit.
Online-only banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover also accept new US residents, though you will still need to open the account in person or through a video call once you have a US address and phone number.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my UK bank account while I am in the US?
Yes, your UK debit card will work at most US ATMs and stores. However, you will usually pay a foreign transaction fee (typically 2 to 3 percent) each time you use it. Opening a US account avoids these fees and is cheaper in the long run if you are staying more than a few months.
Do I need a US phone number to open a bank account?
Most banks do not require a US phone number to open an account in person. However, many banks will ask for one so they can contact you about your account. You can get a US phone number through services like Google Voice (free) or a prepaid phone plan before you arrive, or you can provide your UK number temporarily and update it once you have a US number.
What if I do not have a permanent US address yet?
You can use a temporary address — a hotel, an Airbnb, a friend's address, or even a mail forwarding service. The bank needs somewhere to send statements, but it does not have to be your permanent home. Once you move, you can update your address online or by visiting a branch.
Can I open a business bank account from the UK?
Business accounts have stricter requirements than personal accounts. Most banks require you to be present in person and to have a US tax ID (an Employer Identification Number, or EIN). You can explore for an EIN online from the UK through the IRS website, but you will still need to open the account in person once you arrive in the US.
What happens if I move back to the UK — do I have to close my US account?
No, you can keep a US bank account open while living in the UK. However, you will need to update your address to your UK address, and the bank may ask questions about why you are maintaining the account. Some banks charge fees for accounts held by non-residents, so check your bank's policy. You can still access your account online and by phone.