Before choosing an international bank account, it's important to understand how international banking actually works. Read our guide to managing your money across borders for practical advice on transfers, multi-currency accounts and cross-border compliance.
We believe the following companies offer the best expat bank accounts around, however this list is not exclusive.
We regularly research the market and have created this list based on our research.
his list does not constitute advice or recommendations and you must always do your own due diligence before making a decision.
The banks listed below do not pay to be included in this list, but we may receive payment from the firms listed if you open an account. This is known as an affiliate link and is indicated with a * next to the company name.
Opening an international bank account with Standard Bank is easy. With a low entry point, the Standard Bank Optimum Account is your door to a world of international banking. Ideal for expats who want the assurance provided by an established bank able to offer holistic banking solutions.
£5,000 (currency equivalent applies)
Eligibility criteria applies
Quarterly maintenance fee (£60) applies if average balance falls below the minimum balance per quarter
Online, mobile app, post
Suits Me has provided a digital-only alternative banking solutions since 2015. Suits Me does not require proof of address or credit history as their goal is to make a safe and secure banking service available to everyone. The Suits Me current account allows expats to receive money, top up your account and spend using a debit card. Moreover, it allows you to earn up to 15% cashback.
No minimum
Information not available
£0 / £4.97 / £9.97 per month options available
Online only
Wise Multicurrency Account enables people to send and receive money in 23 different currencies, whether you need to receive your salary, pension payments or use a card for everyday spending. While there may be some fees for receiving money in some currencies, it doesn't matter how much you are transferring, the fees are fixed and deducted from the total amount before you receive the funds.
No minimum
No restrictions
Small fixed fee for some currency transactions
Online, mobile app
Moneycorp provides a sleek and professional money transfer service, which is all about reliability and value. A solid choice for anyone looking for confidence when sending money overseas. Get simple, safe and secure international money transfers from a Feefo Platinum Trusted award-winning service.
No minimum balance
Access to over 120 currencies
No fees for foreign exchange rate and no monthly account fee
Online
The HSBC Expat Premier Account is an award-winning bank account available in Sterling, Dollars or Euros. Included with the account is a debit card, a Foreign Exchange app as well as a complimentary travel security service. The account is accessible 24/7 via phone, mobile banking app or online.
£50k deposit or £100k sole salary, or HSBC Premier account in another country
You must reside or be situated in an eligible country
No monthly or annual fee, but charges may apply with some transactions and transfers
Online, phone, mobile app
Lloyds International Classic account is designed for customers who live internationally and has everything you need to carry out your day-to-day banking. It comes with a £5/€5/$5 monthly fee which is waived when you maintain a balance of £5,000, €5,000 or US$5,000.
Unknown minimum salary
None, providing no regulations in your country of residence
£5/$5/€5 per month
Online, phone
Lloyds International Plus account is an international current account with everyday benefits including Worldwide Travel Insurance, Priority Pass® and more. The £20 monthly fee is waived when you maintain a balance of £10,000. This account is only available in GBP.
Unknown minimum salary
None, providing no regulations in your country of residence
£20 per month
Online, phone
The NatWest International Premier Account allows account holders to manage their finances in multiple currencies, whether they're living in the UK and moving abroad or already living abroad.
Either initial £100k deposit on account opening or minimum £75k annual income mandated to the account
Must be resident in either: Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Bermuda, Canada, China (expats only), Denmark, Finland, France, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Norway, Oman, Qatar, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, UAE, UK (non-domiciled only) or the USA
No monthly or annual fee, but charges may apply with some transactions and transfers
Online, phone
Santander's International Gold Account is a current account offering Sterling, Euro or USD currencies. It also provides account holders with a VISA debit card. The Gold Account is great for people who are internationally mobile, specifically people who live abroad and are likely to move around the world.
£75,000
See website for more information
No charges
Online, phone, post
