Yes, you can open a US bank account as a UK citizen, but the process is slower and more document-heavy than it is for US residents

Most US banks will open an account for a non-resident foreign national, but they require more proof of identity and address than they ask from Americans. You will need a valid passport, proof of a US address (even a temporary one), and often a US tax identification number. Some banks accept UK addresses for online accounts, but many require a US street address to complete the application. The entire process typically takes two to four weeks because the bank must verify your identity through additional channels and comply with anti-money-laundering rules that apply to all foreign account holders.

The main barrier is not whether banks will take your money—they will—but which banks will accept non-residents and what documentation they demand. Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo have different policies, and smaller regional banks often have stricter rules. Online-only banks sometimes have fewer address requirements, but they still need proof that you are who you say you are.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need a valid UK passport, proof of a US address, and usually an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or Social Security Number to open an account.
  • Some banks accept UK residential addresses for online accounts, but many require a US street address—even if it is temporary or a friend's address.
  • The application process takes two to four weeks because banks must verify your identity through additional steps for non-residents.
  • Online banks and banks with branches in your area are often faster and more flexible than large national chains about address requirements.
  • You will need to report the account to HMRC if you are a UK tax resident, and the US bank will report it to the IRS under FATCA rules.

What documents you need to provide

Start with your UK passport. This is your primary identity document and every US bank will ask for it. Take a clear photo or scan of the photo page and the page with your signature. Some banks will ask you to upload this during the online application; others will request it after you submit your initial information.

Next, you need proof of address. If you have a US address—even a temporary one, such as a hotel, Airbnb, or a friend's spare room—use that. Write it down exactly as it appears on any mail or lease agreement. If you do not have a US address, tell the bank upfront. Some will accept a UK address; others will not. If a bank rejects your UK address, you have two options: provide a US address (which can be temporary), or try a different bank.

You will also need a tax identification number. If you do not have a US Social Security Number, you can request an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) from the IRS. This takes four to six weeks to arrive by mail. Some banks will open your account before your ITIN arrives and ask you to provide it later; others will wait. Ask the bank directly whether they will hold your application open while you obtain an ITIN.

Which banks accept UK citizens and how to apply

Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo all accept non-resident foreign nationals, but their processes vary. Chase requires a US address and typically asks for an ITIN or Social Security Number before opening the account. Bank of America has accepted UK addresses for online savings accounts in the past, but this policy changes. Wells Fargo is generally stricter and prefers applicants with a US address or existing relationship with the bank.

Online banks such as Ally, Charles Schwab, and Wise (formerly TransferWise) often have fewer address restrictions because they do not maintain physical branches. Ally has opened accounts for UK residents using UK addresses, though this is not may provide. Charles Schwab is known for accepting non-US residents and has a streamlined process for international customers. Wise is specifically designed for cross-border payments and accounts, so it is often the fastest route if you need to move money between the UK and US regularly.

To apply, visit the bank's website and look for an online application. During the application, you will be asked whether you are a US citizen or resident. Select "non-resident" or "foreign national." Fill in your UK address if the form allows it, or enter a US address if you have one. Upload your passport photo page. Submit the application and wait for the bank to contact you—usually by email—asking for additional documents or an ITIN.

Timeline and what happens after you apply

After you submit your application, the bank will verify your identity. This can happen immediately if you provide an ITIN or Social Security Number, or it can take one to two weeks if the bank must request your ITIN from the IRS. During this time, the bank may call you to confirm details or ask follow-up questions about the source of your funds or the purpose of the account. Answer honestly and directly.

Once the bank approves your application, they will send you a welcome packet by mail to your US address (or UK address, depending on the bank). This packet contains your account number, routing number, and instructions for setting up online banking. If you provided a UK address, the packet may take two to three weeks to arrive. Some banks allow you to access your account online before the physical card arrives.

Your debit card will arrive separately, usually within five to ten business days of account approval. If you provided a UK address, allow three to four weeks for delivery. Once your card arrives, you can use it to withdraw cash from ATMs and make purchases in the US and abroad.

Tax reporting requirements for UK residents

If you are a UK tax resident, you must report the US bank account to HMRC on your Self Assessment tax return. You do not need to report the account itself, but you must report any interest, dividends, or other income the account generates. If the account balance exceeds £10,000 at any point during the tax year, you must also declare this on your return.

The US bank will report your account to the IRS under the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA). This means the IRS will know about the account automatically; you do not need to tell them separately. However, if you are a US citizen or green card holder, you must file a US tax return and report worldwide income, including income from the UK account.

If you are unsure whether you need to report the account, contact a tax advisor who specializes in US-UK tax matters. The rules depend on your residency status, citizenship, and the type of income the account generates.

Using the account for transfers and payments

Once your account is open, you can transfer money from your UK bank account to your US account using international wire transfer, SWIFT payment, or a service like Wise. Wire transfers typically take three to five business days and cost £15 to £40 depending on your UK bank. Wise is often cheaper (usually £1 to £5) and faster (one to two business days) for amounts under £100,000.

You can also set up direct deposits if you have a US employer or receive US income. Provide your employer with your account number and routing number, and they can deposit your salary directly into the account. This is free and takes one to two business days.

To send money from your US account back to the UK, use the same methods in reverse. Your US bank can initiate a wire transfer to your UK account, or you can use Wise or a similar service. Again, Wise is usually cheaper and faster than a wire transfer through the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a US bank account without a US address?

Some banks accept UK addresses, but many do not. Online banks like Charles Schwab and Wise are more flexible. If your preferred bank requires a US address, you can use a friend's address, a temporary rental, or a mail forwarding service. Ask the bank whether they will accept a non-residential address before you apply.

How long does it take to get a US bank account as a UK citizen?

The process typically takes two to four weeks from application to account opening. If you do not have an ITIN or Social Security Number, add four to six weeks for the IRS to issue an ITIN. Some online banks are faster and may open your account within one week.

Do I need a Social Security Number or ITIN to open an account?

Most banks require one or the other. If you do not have a Social Security Number, you can request an ITIN from the IRS using Form W-7. Some banks will open your account while you wait for your ITIN to arrive; others will not. Ask the bank before you apply.

Will the US bank report my account to the IRS?

Yes, under FATCA all US banks report foreign account holders to the IRS. This is automatic and does not mean you have done anything wrong. If you are a UK resident, you must also report the account to HMRC on your tax return.

Can I use my US bank account to pay bills or make purchases in the UK?

Yes, you can use your US debit card to withdraw cash from ATMs in the UK and to make purchases at UK retailers. However, you will be charged a foreign transaction fee (usually 1 to 3 percent) by your US bank. For regular UK payments, it is cheaper to transfer money back to your UK account and pay from there.