I've been in the UK for a few weeks and I intend to start working soon, only thing is that when i tried opening a bank account i was asked for proof of address, which i could not supply because i\'m staying in a hostel. I know some people seem to get their account opened so easily, prob depends on which banking branch you go to! Anyway, a mate said she used 1st Contact, was a bit skeptical at first, seems like a lot of money to spend, but when i got desperate i called in and they managed to set me up with an appointment on the same day! So if there is anyone out there struggling, seriously, i reccomend them!
Reply to this HSBC have an option to open a bank account with them before arriving in the UK, it's not free unfortunately.
HSBC Passport
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Reply to this When I got here I joined a company called Britbound who helped me set myself up. They have an agreement with Lloyds TSB who have an International Account for people like us. They didn't need proof of address because I was in a hostel at the time too. They did however need a secure mailing address. So perhaps you can use a friend or family members home address or open up a post box? It's the easiest kind of account you can get to set up. But you do have to have £1500 deposited into it within 60 days in order for it to remain open. (You don't have to leave the money in for long though.)
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