opening a UK bank account
Two (UK) banking questions.....
1) About how long does it take to open a UK bank account (so that it's ready for payments/wire transfers/direct debits?) I'll be an international student in September.
2) Has anyone used the HSBC International Student Service (ie applying for your bank account over the internet before you move followed up with a visit to your bank branch once you get to the UK.) If so, how long did it take until everything was set up?
I'm trying to figure this stuff out so I can know what my chances are for getting a working bank account before enrolment at my uni (20th September, and I'm arriving in the UK on the 8th September.) Even if I pay my initial fees without using a UK bank account I need bank account details to set up the direct debit scheme for my three further tuition installments, and I'm slightly nervous about not having an account in time. Any help/insights appreciated- thanks :)
1) About how long does it take to open a UK bank account (so that it's ready for payments/wire transfers/direct debits?) I'll be an international student in September.
2) Has anyone used the HSBC International Student Service (ie applying for your bank account over the internet before you move followed up with a visit to your bank branch once you get to the UK.) If so, how long did it take until everything was set up?
I'm trying to figure this stuff out so I can know what my chances are for getting a working bank account before enrolment at my uni (20th September, and I'm arriving in the UK on the 8th September.) Even if I pay my initial fees without using a UK bank account I need bank account details to set up the direct debit scheme for my three further tuition installments, and I'm slightly nervous about not having an account in time. Any help/insights appreciated- thanks :)