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Opening a UK Bank Account
is a top Priority!
For those who are registering a UK Business Company
Opening a Business Bank Account in the UK
Is a Top Priority
International Company Package
Our non-UK resident package is designed for clients outside of the UK.
It includes a Free UK Business Bank Account and international postage.
The International Pack is ideal for international clients based anywhere across the globe,
who are non- residents and require to form a UK Company.
This company formation package gives your company a full London presence,
including business registered office address, services and trading address through the use of our London Offices.
Do you need to live in the UK?
No, it’s not necessary to live in the UK in order to open a High Street bank account. It’s wise to acquire UK residency before applying for one, though. Most banks won’t entertain an application unless you have UK residency. This is due to concerns over fraud and the additional administration costs incurred by them. A registered office address isn’t enough for most traditional banks. You need to prove that you have residency, and you need a home address.
What options do you have to open your Business Bank Account?
The bank account opening process is the same for practically all banks. You will have to submit both personal and company information. Luckily, UK banks have a step-by-step process you can follow, and you can always have us handling most of the process for you.
A face-to-face interview is always required, and you will have to submit suitable identification, such as a passport or UK driver’s license. The following bank has different conditions regarding non-nationals opening business bank accounts.
Business Bank Account
UK Banks and Financial Institutions
If you operate internationally with your UK Company, you’re legally obliged to have a separate business account for your business finances.
All our packages do include our bank account opening services, besides all those services related to company incorporation.
You don’t need a UK Bank Account!
You don’t need to live in the UK!
The bank account opening process is the same for practically all banks. You will have to submit both personal and company information. Luckily, UK banks have a step-by-step process you can follow, and you can always count on Star Capital to handle most of the process for you.
Best Recommended Options
For Non-UK Residents
Non-resident directors can open an account, but the owners of the company have to visit the UK and present a photographic ID, along with proof of address. They will also have to sign a bank mandate.
Opening a Starling business account in the UK offers several advantages, including no monthly fees for the main GBP account, integrated money management tools like automated expense categorization and ‘Spaces’ for saving goals, seamless integration with popular accounting software, free UK payments and ATM withdrawals, 24/7 UK-based customer support, and the ability to deposit cash and cheques. The account is also protected by the FSCS up to £85,000, and features a user-friendly app for managing finances on the go.
Get your account opened fully online in 24 hours to send and get money from anyone, anywhere
Lowest exchange rates
Fixed and low transaction fees
Up to 1% of unlimited cashback
Free in/out SEPA transfers & Direct Debits
Pay locally as a non-resident or resident in the UK
Make and receive high-value international GBP business payments from anywhere in the world.
Instant access to SEPA and SWIFT payment networks
Pay invoices, HMRC, salaries and suppliers like a local in the UK and 36 European countries. Make CHAPS, BACS, SEPA and SWIFT transfers with no transaction limits.
Digital fintech business account – Multi-currency, fast setup.
Fast online setup; supports GBP and multi-currency; integrates well with e-commerce platforms and accounting tools; no credit checks required.Monthly fees (from about £10), varies by plan; eligibility restrictions apply (company must be registered in EEA, Switzerland, US, or Australia – not UK-only).
Opening a UK business account with Wise (formerly TransferWise) offers benefits such as mid-market exchange rates with no hidden fees, multi-currency account details and balances, batch payments for bulk payouts, accounting software integration, and business debit cards for managing team expenses. There are no monthly fees and only a one-time account opening fee, making it a cost-effective solution for businesses with international transactions, according to Wise.
Zempler Bank Traditional and regulated UK current account.
Accepts non-residents for UK-registered companies; instant opening; allows cash deposits via UK Post Offices; integrates with accounting software.
Monthly fees vary (e.g., £9–£19) depending on plan.
Card issue may incur a fee.
Key Takeaways for Non-Resident Applicants
Fully digital onboarding
WorldFirst’s application process is remote-friendly and doesn’t require a UK address or visit
Documentation required: As the company and its stakeholders are outside the UK, proper KYC/KYB documentation, including shareholding charts and proof of existence or trading, is essential.
FAQ
How do I select a business banking partner?
When forming your company with Rapid Formations, you can choose your business bank account during the company formation application. If your company has already been formed, you can select a bank account referral via your Online Company Manager.
What are the advantages of a business bank account?
When starting a business, opening a dedicated business bank account offers several advantages. It helps you keep your personal and business finances clearly separated, which is essential for staying organised and maintaining accurate records. A business bank account also enhances your professional image, making it easier to manage payments, receive client funds, and pay su
What documents do I need to open a business bank account?
Each banking partner may have slightly different requirements. Typically, banking providers will ask for:
Proof of company registration (Companies House number)
Proof of identity (passport or driving license)
Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement)
Is it safe to use a digital bank for my business?
Absolutely. All the digital banks we work with are FCA authorised and regulated in the UK.
How to open a non-UK resident business account with Wise?
A referral to Wise is free with our Non-Resident packages. As soon as your company is registered, we will send you a link to sign up for a Wise Business account.
Do I need to be physically present to open a non-resident account with Wise?
No. We have partnered with wide so non-residents can open their account from anywhere in the world.
Star Capital & Associates Limited provides you 2 types of Company Packages:
Business Package and Premium Package, both including a Business Bank Account for your UK Business Company.
Star Capital & Associates Limited provides you 2 types of Company Packages:
Business Package and Premium Package, both including a Business Bank Account for your UK Business Company.