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Opening A Bank Account

Overview

There are many different financial service providers in Ireland offering personal banking services. This section outlines the main requirements and outlines a number of different mainstream options available

In general, each provider requires the following in order to begin the process of opening a resident account:

  • Applicant to be over the age of 18 (minors can open an account but require consent from a parent or legal guardian)
  • A valid photo ID* - passport, driving licence, government ID card
  • Proof of address* - utility bill (e.g. electricity, gas, internet, mobile phone)

*Some providers will accept photographs of IDs or selfies with the photo page clearly visible but be sure to check the requirements before beginning the process. If you are in doubt regarding the correct proof of address, bring as many different bills as you can and check the relevant provider’s website for more information.

Mainstream Options

  • Bank of Ireland - one of Ireland’s biggest and oldest banks with many branches and ATMs located all over Ireland. They support applicants from a migrant background by providing access to banking products and recognising the need for interpretive services to ensure that everyone gets the financial service support they need. BOI also accepts letters from Irish government departments, recognised schools / colleges as proof of address. Follow the link for more information or to apply for a BOI account.
  • Credit Union - another type of financial institution, credit unions are located all over Ireland and offer members in the local area control over their own finances by making their savings work for them. Find out more about joining and opening a credit union account.
  • AIB - another one of Ireland’s biggest banks that also offer current accounts to people from a migrant background. More information on opening an AIB account.
  • An Post Money - banking provided by Ireland’s postal service, it aims to make opening and using an account simple. For more information, please visit An Post Money.

Should any issues arise, there is an independent, impartial, fair and free service provided by the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman that helps to resolve complaints with regulated financial service providers.

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