CalgaryStampeder

Hello, I just had a quick question before I finally make the big move, I know that to open a bank account you need to show proof of address, for the first few weeks I will be staying with a family member, is there any sort of document I can use, maybe a reference written by the homeowner that states I am living at that address, and that I can use to open an account?

EndaKenny

It needs to be a utility bill in your name.
Banks wont accept tenancy agreements, or bills on landlords name etc.
A way around this is to buy a TV licence from any An Post (post office).
Your name and address are printed on it, and the banks accept this as proof.
Why would you pay for a TV licence if you don't live there? (Is their thinking).
Forget references or trying any other ways, the banks wont accept them.
Passport and TV licence and your account is open in 30 minutes.
You will get your cashpoint debit card 2 weeks later in the post.
You will find AIB much easier to deal with. Bank of Ireland will make you make an appointment to open an account. AIB do it on the spot with no messing.
Fees and charges are both the same rip offs for current accounts, so it makes no odds who you go with.

jenny-laurel

Bank of Ireland definitely the easier and most user friendly. Don't even consider the Ulster bank, they want to know EVERYTHING about you including what you had for lunch the day before! Bank charges higher with BOI but worth it. Would only accept utility bills, electric, phone etc when I opened mine but may have changed now.
Good luck!

JeffandAnne

My son has just moved over and is in rented at the moment. The bank accepted his tenancy agreement.

scot47

Ulster bank has a poor reputation. My wife was in the North for a while and had problems with them.