What you need before you walk into a bank
Irish banks require two forms of identification and proof of address before they will open an account. One form of ID must be a passport or national ID card; the second can be a driving licence, student card, or work ID. Proof of address means a recent utility bill, council tax letter, or rental agreement showing your name and an Irish address — it usually needs to be dated within the last three months.
If you are not an Irish resident yet, you can still open an account, but the process takes longer and some banks require you to open it in person at a branch rather than online. Non-residents typically need to provide a letter from their employer or a rental agreement confirming they will be living in Ireland, plus the same ID and address documents.
Have your PPS number (Personal Public Service number) ready if you have one. If you do not have one yet, you can still open an account — the bank will help you register for one during the process, or you can register separately through the Department of Social Protection.
Key Takeaways
- You need a valid passport or national ID card, a second form of ID, and proof of address dated within three months to open an account at any Irish bank.
- Most banks offer online account opening for residents, but non-residents must visit a branch in person and may face longer processing times.
- The main banks operating in Ireland are Bank of Ireland, AIB, Ulster Bank, and Revolut; each has different fees, overdraft terms, and branch availability.
- Account opening usually takes one to five business days for residents explore online, but can take two to four weeks for non-residents or branch applications.
- Once your account is open, you can request a debit card, set up standing orders, and link to online banking within the same visit or process process.
The main banks and what they offer
Bank of Ireland and AIB are the two largest banks in the country and have the most branches. Both offer current accounts with no monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance (usually €1,500 to €2,500) or receive regular deposits. Both also offer overdraft facilities, though the interest rate and limit depend on your credit history and income.
Ulster Bank operates across Ireland and Northern Ireland and has similar account structures to the larger two, though it has fewer branches in some areas. Revolut is a digital-only bank with no branches but lower fees and faster international transfers; it is popular for people who do most of their banking on a phone app and rarely need to deposit cash.
Smaller banks like Permanent TSB and KBC also operate in Ireland, though KBC announced it would exit the Irish market by 2024. If you are choosing between banks, check whether they have a branch near your workplace or home, what their overdraft terms are, and whether they charge fees for services you will actually use — some charge for paper statements or international transfers.
How to open an account online as a resident
If you are an Irish resident with a valid address, most banks let you start the process on their website or app. You will upload photos of your ID and proof of address, enter your personal details, and choose the type of account you want. The bank will then verify your documents — this usually takes one to three business days.
Once your documents are verified, the bank will contact you to confirm your details and set up your PIN or online password. Some banks ask you to visit a branch to collect your debit card in person; others post it to your address. A few banks, including Revolut, send the card when ready and let you use the account on your phone while you wait for the physical card to arrive.
The entire process from process to a working account typically takes three to five business days for online applications. If the bank cannot verify your documents — for example, if your proof of address is outside the three-month window — they will ask you to resubmit or visit a branch instead.
How to open an account in person at a branch
Walk into any branch of the bank you have chosen with your ID, proof of address, and PPS number (or a letter confirming you have applied for one). Tell the staff member you want to open a current account. They will take copies of your documents, fill in an process form with you, and ask about your income, employment, and how you plan to use the account.
The whole conversation usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Before you leave, ask whether your debit card will be posted to you or whether you can collect it from the branch. Some branches can issue a temporary card on the spot if you need access to cash when ready, though this is less common now.
Branch applications take longer to process than online ones — usually two to five business days — because the bank has to manually review the paperwork. However, if you are a non-resident or your documents do not meet the online requirements, a branch visit is often the only option.
What happens if you do not have a PPS number yet
You do not need a PPS number to open a bank account, but you will need one eventually if you work or receive benefits in Ireland. Some banks will register you for one during the account-opening process; others will tell you to register separately through the Department of Social Protection.
If you are registering separately, you can do this online through the Department's website or by visiting a local social welfare office. You will need your passport, proof of address, and proof of employment or study (a letter from your employer or college). Registration usually takes one to two weeks, and you will receive your PPS number by post.
Once you have your PPS number, contact your bank and provide it to them. They will update your account details. This does not change your account or require you to reapply — it is a straightforward administrative update.
Overdrafts, fees, and what to watch for
Most Irish banks offer an overdraft facility on current accounts, but the amount and interest rate depend on your income and credit history. When you open your account, the bank will tell you whether you are may be able to access for an overdraft and what the limit is. You do not have to use it — it is just available if you need it.
Overdraft interest rates in Ireland typically range from 8% to 20% depending on the bank and your circumstances. Some banks charge a flat fee for using an overdraft; others charge interest only on the amount you actually borrow. Read the terms carefully before you agree, because the cost of borrowing through an overdraft is usually higher than a personal loan.
Monthly account fees are rare if you maintain a minimum balance or receive regular deposits. However, some banks charge for services like paper statements, international transfers, or cashier's cheques. Ask about these before you open the account, especially if you know you will need them.
Non-residents and people moving to Ireland
If you are moving to Ireland but do not yet have an Irish address, some banks will let you open an account using a future address — for example, a rental agreement that starts next month. You will still need to visit a branch in person, and the bank will ask for a letter from your employer or landlord confirming the move.
If you are a non-resident with no plans to move to Ireland, most banks will not open an account for you. However, some digital banks like Revolut and Wise offer accounts to non-residents if they have a valid ID and can verify their identity online. These accounts work differently from traditional bank accounts — they are primarily for holding money and making international transfers rather than receiving a salary or paying bills.
If you are moving from another EU country, your existing bank may have a partner bank in Ireland that can help you open an account more quickly. Ask your current bank whether they have this service before you move.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account without a PPS number?
Yes. You do not need a PPS number to open an account, but you will need one if you work or receive benefits. Most banks will help you register for one during the account-opening process, or you can register separately through the Department of Social Protection after your account is open.
How long does it take to get a debit card?
If you open your account online, the debit card is usually posted to your address within five to ten business days. If you open your account in a branch, you may be able to collect the card from the branch within a week, or it will be posted to you. Some digital banks like Revolut issue a virtual card when ready that you can use on your phone while you wait for the physical card.
What if my proof of address is older than three months?
Most banks will not accept it. You will need to provide a newer document — a recent utility bill, council tax letter, or rental agreement. If you have just moved and do not have a recent bill yet, ask your landlord or letting agent for a letter confirming your address, or contact your utility provider to request a recent statement.
Can I open an account if I am not working?
Yes. Banks do not require you to be employed to open a current account. However, if you want an overdraft facility, the bank may ask about your income or savings to assess whether you can repay it. You can open an account without an overdraft if you prefer.
Do I need to visit a branch if I open my account online?
Not usually. Most online applications are processed entirely remotely, and your debit card is posted to you. However, some banks ask you to visit a branch to collect your card or to verify your identity in person if there are any questions about your documents. The bank will tell you if this is necessary.