Opening a Bank account

It is very important that you open a bank account as soon as possible after a successful asylum claim. This will enable you to have benefits and wages paid.

Each high street bank has their own regulations on ID requirements and you usually have to provide 2 forms of ID including proof of address and Biometric Residency Permit. Some of the local banks in the area include; Nationwide, Lloyds Bank and Barclays Bank.

If you are struggling to open an account with a High Street bank, it may be useful to first apply for an account with MONZO . This is an online bank, which you can apply to without proof of address. When you apply to MONZO, you will receive a quick decision and your debit card will be sent to your address in a day or two. You will be able to have benefits and wages paid into this account.
 
Monzo is an online bank, and it is very easy to open an account. If you own an iPhone or Android phone, you can open a bank account using Monzo. To open an account, follow these steps:

1. Download the Monzo app onto your Smart phone
2. Sign up with your email address
3. Take a picture of the front and back of the BRP as the app asks you to do
4. Take a video of yourself confirming who you are as the app asks you to do
5. Follow the instructions on your screen

Don’t forget to activate your card on the App once it arrives

Your account number and sort number can be found in your App.

If you need support with this, the LAASLO team can help

From 31 October 2020, Monzo introduced new fees for withdrawals. Withdrawals above £250 over a 30-day period in the UK or European Economic Area (EEA) will now be charged a fee of 3%.