One of the most immediate challenges for any international professional is establishing a local financial footprint. You need a local bank account to receive your salary, pay your rent, and set up utility bills. However, traditional banks in the UK and Ireland often require "proof of address"—something that is difficult to provide when you’ve only just landed. At Recruitroo, we help our candidates navigate this "catch-22" by leveraging modern fintech solutions and traditional banking partnerships.
The Traditional High-Street Route
High-street banks (like HSBC, Barclays, or Bank of Ireland) offer a full suite of services, including credit cards and mortgages. However, their onboarding process for non-EEA nationals can be rigorous. They typically require a physical appointment and a combination of your passport, visa/BRP, and a utility bill or tenancy agreement in your name.
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Employer Letters: Many banks will accept a "Letter of Introduction" from your employer (on Recruitroo-verified letterhead) as a temporary proof of address if you are still in temporary accommodation.
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Standard Accounts: As a new arrival, you may be limited to a "Basic Bank Account" for the first 6–12 months before being eligible for premium features or overdrafts.
The Fintech Advantage: Faster and More Flexible
In 2026, many of our candidates choose to open a digital-first account before they even leave their home country, or within hours of landing. These banks are often more "relocation-friendly":
- Monzo and Revolut: These allow you to apply via a smartphone app. They usually accept a BRP/Visa and a scan of your passport, with no physical proof of address required initially.
- Wise (formerly TransferWise): Excellent for those who need to hold multiple currencies (e.g., keeping savings in their home currency while earning in GBP or EUR).
- Instant Virtual Cards: Most digital banks provide a virtual card immediately upon approval, allowing you to use Apple Pay or Google Pay for essentials while your physical card is in the post.
Building Your Credit Score
Your credit history does not follow you across borders. When you move to the UK or Ireland, you are essentially starting from zero. To build your local credit score—which is vital for future car loans or mortgages—you should ensure your name is on the electoral roll (if eligible), pay your bills by Direct Debit, and avoid moving addresses too frequently in your first year. A local bank account is the foundation upon which this history is built.
Relocation Advice: "Open a digital account first to get your salary moving, then look into a high-street bank once you have a permanent tenancy agreement. This 'dual-track' approach ensures you are never without access to your funds." — Emma Fitzgerald, Relocation Advisor.
How Recruitroo Supports Your Finances
We partner with several leading financial institutions to provide Recruitroo candidates with priority onboarding and "relocation-ready" accounts. Our candidate portal contains templates for the specific employer letters that banks require, significantly reducing the chance of rejection. We make sure that on payday, your hard-earned money has a safe place to land.
Ready to secure your financial future? Check out our latest roles or book a demo to see how we help international talent thrive. Learn more at Recruitroo.com.