How to Get a Proof of Address in the UK and Open a Bank Account

What is a proof of address?

A proof of address is a document that includes your full name and address issued by a trusted third party, such as a service provider. Common examples include utility bills, bank statements, or official correspondence. This document is evidence of your current address and is often required for identity verification.

Banks, financial institutions, and government agencies may request proof of address to confirm to ensure compliance with regulations and facilitate secure communication. 

Are proof of address in England and Wales part of anti-money laundering regulations?

Yes. Proof of address is essential under England and Wales's anti-money laundering (AML) regulations. It is typically requested alongside photographic identification, such as a passport or photocard driving licence, to validate an individual’s identity and ensure compliance with AML measures. Proof of address documents must usually have been issued within the last three months to be acceptable. Examples include a recent local council tax bill, bank statement, or utility bill.

When will you need proof of address in the UK?

Proof of address is required in several situations in the UK, including:

• Opening a bank account: Whether you are a UK citizen or a non-resident, banks will ask for proof of address as part of anti-money laundering (AML) measures and to comply with Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) regulations.
• Applying for credit: When applying for a loan, credit card, or mortgage, financial institutions require proof of address to verify your identity and assess your creditworthiness.
• Buying property: Proof of address is often needed to confirm one's identity and comply with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Acting as a guarantor for a tenant: If you are a guarantor for someone renting a property, landlords or letting agents may request proof of your current address to complete the guarantor process.
• ‍Accessing government services: Certain government services, such as applying for a visa, registering a birth, getting a driving licence or dealing with specific agencies such as the police, may require you to provide proof of address to verify your residency.

What can be used as proof of address when you just arrive in the UK? 

When newly arrived in the UK, providing proof of address without utility bills or other typical documents can be challenging. In such cases, the following alternatives may be accepted:

• A letter or statement from your employer confirming your name and address, provided you have a right to work share code.
• If you are a student, a letter from your university that confirms your residential address.
• A tenancy agreement, if you already have a place to live, serves as valid proof of address.
• Government correspondence, such as letters from HMRC or the NHS that include your name and address.
• An affidavit of residence, where you formally declare your current residence under oath.

How do I get proof of address in the UK?

Obtaining proof of address in the UK typically involves using documents you already have, such as correspondence from government agencies or service providers. Service provider documents should be no older than three months, while government-issued documents dated within the past 12 months may be accepted.

Acceptable proof of address documents issued in the last 3 months:

• Utility bills, such as gas or electricity.
• Bank statements or letters confirming account details.
• A letter from a solicitor confirming a recent property purchase or land registry records.

Acceptable proof of address documents issued within the last 12 months: 

• A mortgage statement from a recognised lender.
• A council tax bill from your local authority. 
• A rent card or tenancy agreement from a council or housing association.
• P45 or P60 documents related to income tax.
• HMRC correspondences, including self-assessment notifications or tax demands issued within the current financial year.
• An entry in the Electoral Register confirming your residence details.

How can I open a bank account in the UK without proof of address?

Opening a bank account in the UK without proof of address is possible through online or challenger banks. These banks have simplified account setup processes and often waive the requirement for traditional proof of address. Popular options include:

• Wise
• Monzo
• Starling
• Monese
• Zempler 
• Suits Me
  

These banks operate online via desktop platforms or mobile apps, offering a convenient alternative to traditional banking. To open an account, review the bank’s policies and required documentation, which may include basic identity verification like a passport or ID. 

Once you’ve chosen the right bank, download their app or access their platform and follow the steps to set up your account.

What documents are accepted as proof of address by major UK banks?

Unlike digital challenger banks, high street banks in the UK are traditional organisations that require proof of address to open an account. Commonly accepted documents include:

• Recent utility bills (usually within the last 3 months) showing your name and address.
• Official letters, such as those from HMRC, and tax bills that include your name and address.
• A letter from a solicitor confirming your recent property purchase or tenancy.
• A signed agreement for your current residence.

Each bank may have specific requirements, so it’s always best to check directly with the institution to ensure you have the correct documentation.

Can the document that counts as proof of address be used for proof of identity?

No, a document used as proof of address cannot independently serve as proof of identification. Proof of address supports identity verification but cannot replace proof of identity, which typically requires a photographic document, such as a passport or driving licence. While evidence of address adds credibility to the verification process, it cannot stand alone as a substitute for photographic identification. Likewise, a document that serves as proof of identity, cannot be used for both proof of id and address. 

Do proof of address documents need notarisation?

Proof of address documents generally do not need notarisation unless explicitly required by the institution requesting them.

5 Things To Know About Proof of Address UK