Because Northern Ireland is Ireland’s nearest neighbor, you may consider relocating or traveling there for employment, family, or simply a change of scenery.
Before you go, keep in mind that Northern Ireland follows UK banking rules rather than Republic of Ireland rules.
This article discusses the requirements for opening a bank account in Northern Ireland, including eligibility, accessible banks, and potential costs.
To open a bank account in Northern Ireland you’ll normally need to complete an application form and supply paperwork that shows your identity and address.
Here’s what might be accepted as proof of identity by a Northern Ireland bank:
- Republic of Ireland driving licence or provisional licence
- Valid passport
- Electoral identity card with photo
- National identity card with photo
- Biometric residence permit
- Birth certificate (for people under 21 years old)
Here’s what you could provide to a Northern Ireland bank as proof of address:
- Bank, building society or credit union statement
- Mortgage statement
- Utility bill for gas, landline phone, water or electricity
- Rates bill
- Notice of tax coding
Note: These documents generally need to be less than 6 or 12 months old.
Documents for student bank account in Northern Ireland
If you’re opening a student account, you’ll almost certainly need to provide proof of your student status. Here’s an example of how you could go about it.:
- Letter of acceptance
- Confirmation of place
- Request for payment of student fees
It’s a good idea to check with the bank you’re applying to see if there are any time constraints on how old the proof can be.
When applying for a student bank account you’ll also need to establish your identity and residence. If you are under the age of 21, you may be able to use your parents’ or guardians’ documentation to confirm your address if you live with them.
READ ALSO: Top 4 Banks In Northern Ireland
Can I open a bank account online in Northern Ireland?
It is possible to open a Northern Ireland bank account online, depending on the bank.
The best approach to find out is to go to the bank’s website and see if the option is accessible.
Can a non-resident open a bank account in Northern Ireland?
With Brexit, it will be difficult for a resident of the Republic of Ireland to open a bank account in Northern Ireland.
This is because most banks are only permitted to offer accounts to UK residents.
Fees and charges for opening a bank account in Northern Ireland
It’s a good idea to check the fees before committing to opening a bank account in Northern Ireland. These are a handful to keep an eye out for.
Monthly account fees
This cost is paid monthly to keep your account active. Preferably, you want an account that does not charge a monthly fee or that allows you to avoid paying one by keeping a minimum amount.
Cash withdrawal fees
Fees for cash withdrawals are often split into local fees and foreign fees. Here’s a few things to check for.
Local Fees
- Limits on fee free withdrawals
- Fees for using another bank’s ATM
Foreign Fees
- Fees for foreign currency withdrawals
- Fees for withdrawals outside Northern Ireland
- Limits on fee free withdrawals
- What exchange rate is applied
Foreign transaction fees
Foreign transaction fees can be a little expensive or confusing when using some traditional banks so here’s a few that often pop up in fee schedules:
- Fees for sending local currency overseas
- Fees for sending foreign currency overseas
- Fees for receiving foreign currency
- Fees for debit card payments in a foreign currency
- Fees for branch assistance when making foreign transactions
- Markups on the foreign exchange rate
