How to Open a NatWest Bank Account

NatWest is an established high street bank that has adapted very well in the digital world. They offer great products, focus on customer relationships and have an award winning mobile app.

If you’re considering opening an account with NatWest, you’re in the right place.

1. Choose Application Method

NatWest offers more than just one way to apply for a current account:

• Online: Visit the natwest.com to explore the range of current accounts available and select the one that suits you best. Then proceed with the steps of the online application. Natwest has a digital assistant, Cora, that is quite uncanny and can be relied on to help with any part of the online application process. If for any reason Cora can’t help, then you are automatically referred to the friendly webchat team.
• App: Get the NatWest mobile app from the App Store or Play Store and follow the in-app instructions to apply for your desired account from the comfort of your phone.
• Visit: For face-to-face assistance, book a consultation at one of the 900+ branches in the UK and the staff will guide you through your account opening.

2. Provide Details

Once you’ve started your application, NatWest will request some basic information.

This will include:

• Full name
• Personal address
• Contact information
• Employment status

3. Verification

NatWest will require ID verification to secure your account. This involves providing photo ID (or multiple proof documents) such as:

• Passport
• Driving license
• National ID

This step is fairly speedy online thanks to NatWest’s secure and trusted partner, HooYu, who specifically handle this step. Your document copies are encrypted before processing and deleted as soon as the ID check is complete.

4. Select Account Type

NatWest will leave room for you to alter your current account type based on things like overdraft facilities, rewards or student benefits. At this point, ensure you’ve chosen the ideal account for you – if this is your first account it is likely the ‘Everyday select accounts‘ will be best for you until you understand how to make use of the additional benefits.

5. Await Approval

Now that your application has been submitted along with the verification documents, your new account will undergo the review process. New customers are told to wait up to 10 days for full activation however we’ve seen accounts approved within 3 business days.

6. Activate Account

Once it’s been approved, you’ll receive your account details and be asked to activate your account as per NatWest’s instructions. Then you’ll be prompted to set up multiple layers of security to keep your account safe, we recommend going through with them all.

Once that’s done, your account is ready to grow and you can work with NatWest to see what new products might apply to your financial lifestyle.

To get even more out of your new NatWest account, consider using a personal finance app like Emma! Emma tracks all your cards‘ expenses in one place, encourages you to set realistic budgets and gives you visual insights into how you’re spending your money. You can seamlessly connect your NatWest account, with Open Banking, and let Emma do the heavy lifting for you.