Why is it so difficult to open a UK bank account?
Since September 11, UK banks have tightened the requirements necessary to open a UK bank account and if you try to apply directly to them they request items such as UK tenancy agreements and utility bills in your name. Clearly, this can be quite difficult if you have just arrived in the country but fortunately, there are traveller companies like 1st Contact and Visa First who have found ways to cut through the red tape.
