Opening a bank account with a UK retail bank can be a frustrating and challenging affair. As a result, we suggest opening an account with WISE (before you depart) if your UK banking requirements are simply to receive and make payments. It should be all you need when you get there and is easy to setup and use. WISE also have competitive international currency exchange rates, which can help if you plan to send money back home. If you do still require normal banking facilities, consider using either Lloyds Bank or HSBC. With Lloyds Bank, you simply need to present your passport and BRP. That is to say, you no longer have to present proof of your UK address in the form of a bank statement and/or utility bill. Alternatively, if you already have an HSBC Premier Account in Australia or New Zealand, you can use these details to open an account with HSBC in the UK.