How to open a Starling Bank account online

Looking for a new bank account? There are lots of UK providers to choose from if you’re looking for a new current account, including Starling Bank.

Launched in 2014 as one of the UK’s first digital banks, Starling Bank is independent and fully licensed.

It’s become known for its app-based accounts and customer service, and more than four million personal and business customers have joined the bank since it was founded.¹

But how easy is it to open a Starling Bank account online in the UK? What documents do you need, and how long does it take? We’ll answer all of these questions and more here in this handy guide.

And while you’re comparing all the different accounts out there, check out the Wise account from the money services provider Wise. It’s an ideal alternative to a bank account, especially if you need to make international transfers and overseas card payments.

Learn more about the Wise account 🚀

Requirements for opening an account with Starling Bank

Most UK banks have eligibility requirements for new customers, so you’ll need to check these before applying for an account.

To join Starling Bank as a new current account customer, you’ll need to:²

• Be a permanent UK resident
• Be at least 16 years old
• Not already have a current account with Starling Bank
• Agree to use your current account for personal finances only - if you want to use it for business purposes, you’ll need to open a Starling Bank business account.

If you want to open a Starling Bank Euro Account, you’ll first need to have a standard GBP-denominated personal current account with the bank.

And of course, Starling business bank account has its own set of requirements.

What documents do I need to open a Starling Bank account?

The main thing you’ll need in order to apply for a Starling Bank account online is a valid photo ID. The bank accepts the following:³

• Passport
• EU identity card
• Biometric residence permit
• UK driving licence – full or provisional.

You may also be asked for proof of address, so it’s a good idea to have this ready while applying - just in case it’s required.

Acceptable proof of address documents include:³

• Your full or provisional UK driving licence, unless already used to prove your identity
• A recent bank account, credit card or mortgage statement
• A recent utility bill
• A recent council tax bill
• A recent letter from the UK government – for example, a benefits confirmation letter, poll card or tax code notice letter
• A recent tenancy agreement, including for student accommodation.

You’ll also need a smartphone.

How to open a Starling Bank account online - step-by-step

With your documents to hand, you’re now ready to get your online application in.

To join Starling Bank and open an account online, grab your smartphone and follow these simple steps:

1. Download the Starling Bank mobile app

The quickest way to open your new bank account is via the Starling Bank mobile app.

It’s available from the following app stores:

• The Apple App Store,
• The Google Play Store
• The Huawei app gallery.

You’ll just need to check whether your phone is compatible with the app.

However, you can head to the Starling Bank website to start your application, although you will be prompted to switch over to the app at some point.

2. Start the application process

Follow the on-screen steps on the app to start your application. You’ll need to provide all your personal details when prompted. This may include:

• Your name, address, date of birth, nationality and tax residency status
• Contact details, including email address and phone number
• Employment and/or income details.

3. Verify your identity

At this stage, you’ll need to verify your identity before your application can be submitted and processed. This involves taking a photo of your ID (such as your passport) in the app, and also taking a selfie video. This is to check that you match your ID, and that it’s really you opening the account.

You’ll be given prompts and full instructions for what to do in the app.

4. Submit your application

Once you’ve completed all of the above, you’ll be able to submit your application and wait for your new account to be opened.

How long does it take with Starling Bank to open an account online?

According to the bank, you’ll only need around 5-10 minutes to complete the process of applying for your account.⁴

As for when you’ll be able to start using your account, the time it takes can vary. Starling says that new customers will get their account number and be able to pay into their account either the same day or within one day.⁵

You should get your debit card through the post within 5 to 7 working days.⁴ You’ll be able to create a virtual card right away though, and can start using it for payments immediately.

To avoid any delays in getting your account up and running, make sure you provide all the information and documents you’re asked for. And check your application over carefully in case of mistakes before clicking ‘submit’.

Does Starling Bank do a credit check when you apply for an account online?

Yes, Starling Bank does do a credit check with a UK Credit Reference Agency when you apply for a personal account. But the good news is that these checks are ‘soft’, meaning they don’t leave a footprint on your credit file.⁴

If you’re applying for an overdraft though, the bank will need to do a ‘hard’ credit check.⁴ This will have some impact on your credit report.

Once the bank has finished its checks and has verified your account, you’ll be sent a notification to let you know your new account is up and running.

Wise - An international alternative to a Starling Bank account

While you’re comparing accounts and providers, make sure to check out the Wise account. It’s not a bank account but offers some similar features. It’s a fantastic alternative to a Starling Bank account, especially if you need to spend overseas or send payments between countries.

With Wise, there are no sign up or monthly fees to pay. You’ll get a powerful account for managing your money in 40+ currencies, including making international transfers for low fees* and mid-market exchange rates.

For a one-time cost of just £7, you can also get a Wise debit card which has no foreign transaction fees for spending abroad, just a small conversion fee for cross-currency transactions.

Sign up with Wise today 💰

And that’s about it - our comprehensive guide on how to open a Starling Bank account online in the UK.

We’ve covered eligibility requirements and what documents you’ll need, along with how to apply via the Starling Bank mobile app. You should also have a better idea of how long it takes, and whether any credit checks are involved.

The good news is that it should be pretty quick and easy to open an account with Starling Bank. Just make sure to compare all available options before choosing your new bank account, as there’s a lot of choice out there in the UK right now.

Sources used:

Sources last checked on date: 08-Nov-2024