Banking options for expats
Banking is often the trickiest bit of admin on either side of a move: many UK high-street banks are wary of customers who live abroad, and local banks usually want proof of residence before they will open an account. Many people end up using a mix of an offshore or expat account, a local account and a multi-currency app. These are some widely used starting points.
Providers to compare
Last checked November 2026. Listed in no particular order.
HSBC Expat
Higher-balance offshore banking in GBP, EUR and USD
Based in Jersey and open to residents of eligible countries. Eligibility requires at least £75,000 in savings or investments, or existing HSBC Premier status with at least £10,000 to place with HSBC Expat.
Visit HSBC ExpatLloyds Bank International
Keeping a sterling account while living abroad
Offshore accounts held through Lloyds' Jersey, Guernsey or Isle of Man branches. The International Plus account (GBP) is open to non-customers, with a monthly fee that is waived above a set balance; the Classic account (GBP, EUR, USD) is for existing Club Lloyds customers.
Visit Lloyds Bank InternationalEmirates NBD
A full-service UAE bank for salary and everyday banking
One of the UAE's largest banks, offering current and savings accounts for residents, including salary-transfer accounts. Its digital-only offering, Liv, is aimed at app-first customers.
Visit Emirates NBDMashreq NEO
App-based banking once you have your Emirates ID
Mashreq's digital banking service, with current and savings accounts opened through the app. Applicants must be at least 18 and hold a valid Emirates ID.
Visit Mashreq NEOBanco Sabadell
A Spanish account for non-residents and British customers
Offers a Key Account for non-residents with access to a translation service, plus tools for regular transfers from a UK account. Sabadell took over Lloyds Banking Group's Spanish business in 2013 and has a long-standing British customer base.
Visit Banco SabadellWise account
Holding and converting several currencies in one place
Multi-currency account with local account details in currencies including GBP and EUR, and a debit card. Wise is an e-money institution rather than a bank, so balances are safeguarded rather than covered by a deposit guarantee scheme.
Visit Wise accountWhat to look for
- Whether you can open the account before you arrive, or only once you have an Emirates ID or NIE
- Minimum deposit, income or balance requirements, and the monthly fees if you fall below them
- Which deposit protection scheme applies (UK, Channel Islands, UAE or Spain), as this depends on where the account is held
- Currencies held and the cost of moving money between them
- Whether customer service and app support are available in English
We list these companies for information only. We don't receive payment from them, a listing isn't a recommendation, and we don't give financial, legal or insurance advice. Prices, products and regulation change, so check the details directly with each provider.
Ready to plan your move?
Tell us about your move and we'll personally introduce you to one trusted specialist for each thing you need. There's no cost to you and no obligation.