Opening an overseas bank account

Whether you’re moving abroad from the Channel Islands or Isle of Man to emigrate, retire, study or work, or need an international account to help you facilitate your banking overseas, we are here to help.

If you are applying for an account overseas, you need to be an existing customer of HSBC, and are subject to Terms and Conditions of the country/region from which you are requesting the account.

• Account set up in advance
  If you are moving abroad from the Channel Islands or Isle of Man you can open your new account before you leave so it’s set up when you arrive. Please allow up to 30 days prior to your international account opening to enable us to process your application. The customer must meet all HSBC qualifying criteria and document submission requirements.
• Free review
  We’ll review your international needs to ensure your banking needs are covered.
• Available in 40 countries and regions
  Open an account in 40 different countries and regions including Australia, France and Hong Kong. Subject to qualifications, status and local country/region laws and regulations.
• Credit history transfer
  By transferring your HSBC credit history, it’s even easier to continue your banking relationship with us. Subject to qualifications, status and local country laws and regulations.
• Fast service
  Once the overseas country/region receives your completed application and supporting documentation, your new account will be opened in 10 - 15 working days for Premier and 15 - 20 days for Non-Premier.(Subject to qualifications, status and local country/region laws and regulations). 

Our Expat Banking Services

If you’re a Premier or new customer to HSBC and are moving abroad from the Channel Islands and Isle of Man, you may be interested in finding out more information about our Expat Banking services.

Our Expat Banking services help our customers around the world prosper as they expand their horizons internationally to build fulfilling lives for themselves and their families.

Please note, a charge of £100 will apply. This is free for HSBC Premier customers and reduced to £50 for those holding HSBC Advance, Student and Graduate accounts, as well as customers under 18 years of age.

Get in touch using one of the following options to start your application at least a month before you need to use it:

•  speak to your Premier Manager

•  visit your local branch

•  visit our International Services website

•  call the International Banking Centre on 0345 607 6706 or +44 20 7991 7414 from abroad

Lines are open 9 am to 5 pm Monday to Friday. These numbers are for Channel Island and Isle of Man customers interested in opening accounts in another country/region with an HSBC presence. 

Please set aside 45 minutes to go through the application with an HSBC International Banking Specialist.

You'll need the following documents:

• passport
• proof of income
• source of income
• Tax Identification Number
• other documentation such a visa’s may be required, subject to qualifications, status and local country/region laws and regulations.

Please note, if you have any questions you can call our international specialists who will help you complete the form over the phone.

Our International Banking Specialist will make an appointment for you at your local branch so we can verify your documents, and they will advise you on what documentation is required.

You can expect your new account to be opened within 10 - 15 working days for Premier customers and 15 - 20 working days for non-Premier customers of your chosen country/region, subject to qualifications, status and local country/region laws and regulations.

You will receive your new debit cards and cheque book shortly after your account has been opened.

Once your account is opened you will receive all documentation, cards and PINs. You will receive a welcome call from the HSBC International Banking centre. They will make sure you have everything you need and answer any questions you may have.