How to Set Up a Bank Account

To open a bank account in Australia, you’ll need to provide a few essential documents. Typically, students are required to present:

• Passport
• Acceptance letter from your university or college
• Proof of permanent address

International students can begin the account setup process online up to three months before arriving in Australia. After you arrive, you’ll need to visit your bank's local branch to finalize the account opening. Many banks allow you to book an appointment in advance to make the process smoother and faster once you're on the ground.

There are a variety of trusted banks in Australia to choose from. Some of the most popular banks in Australia include:

• National Australia Bank ("NAB")
• Australia New Zealand Bank ("ANZ")
• Commonwealth Bank of Australia

Online banks include: ING Direct, RaboDirect, and UBank, which are becoming a popular option for Australians who prefer to manage their finances online.

It’s important to ensure you have all the documentation required to open up a new bank account. When opening a bank account international students will typically require two pieces of identification, including one with their photo on it and one that includes their address.

In some cases, Canadian banks offer online services from overseas before arriving in the destination country. In the majority of cases, an international student can set up a bank account once they arrive by booking an appointment with their local branch.

There are many trusted banks in Canada, some of the most popular banks in Canada include:

• Royal Bank of Canada ("RBC")
• Toronto-Dominion ("TD") Bank
• Bank of Montreal (“BMO”)
• Bank of Nova Scotia (“Scotiabank”)
• CIBC

Additionally, online banks such as Tangerine and Simplii Financial are becoming a popular option for Canadians who prefer to manage their finances online.

It’s important to ensure you have all the documentation required to open up a new bank account. Students will typically be required to provide:

• A passport
• A valid visa
• A bank statement from your home bank, from the past three months
• Proof of address in the UK or abroad (check with your bank)
• A student ID or an acceptance letter from your university

In a few cases, some UK banks offer online services from overseas before arriving ashore. However, international students will typically set up a bank account after arriving at their study abroad destination by booking an appointment with their local branch.

Some of the most popular banks for international students in the UK include:

• NatWest Select
• RBS Select
• Barclays Student Additions

Online banks such as Revolut and Monese are becoming a popular option for international students who prefer to manage their finances online.

It’s important to ensure you have all the documentation required to open up a new bank account. International students opening a bank account will typically require:

• A student visa
• A passport
• Proof of university enrollment
• Secondary ID (such as a driver’s license or student card)

In a few cases, US banks offer online services from overseas before arriving in the destination country. In the majority of cases, an international student can set up a bank account once they arrive by booking an appointment with their local branch.

• Bank of America
• Wells Fargo
• HSBC USA

To open a bank account in Ireland, you’ll need the following documents:

• Proof of Identity: A valid passport, national identity card, or EU/EEA card.
• Proof of Address: A recent utility bill (e.g., electricity, gas, or phone bill) or a tenancy agreement. Most banks require this document to be no more than three months old.
• Proof of Student Status: An official letter from your college or university confirming your enrollment. Alternatively, your student ID card or a letter from your educational institution can be used.
• Irish PPS Number: If you plan to work or access some financial services, you’ll need a Personal Public Service (PPS) number. This is not always mandatory for opening a student account, but it's recommended.

Most banks require you to visit a branch in person to open an account. Make sure you bring all the necessary documentation (passport, proof of address, proof of student status, and possibly your PPS number).

• Bank of Ireland: Offers student accounts with no maintenance fees for students and various services like mobile banking and international transfers.
• AIB (Allied Irish Banks): AIB offers a student account with no fees and a range of banking services including access to ATMs and mobile banking.
• Permanent TSB: Another great choice, offering accounts specifically designed for students with no monthly fees and easy online banking.
• Revolut: An online banking service with no physical branches, but offers a very easy way to manage money, make international transfers, and withdraw cash. It’s ideal for students who are tech-savvy and don’t mind doing everything digitally.