Average time opening new bank account (fall 2012)

What's the average time that it's taken new arrivals to the UK to open a bank account in the fall of 2012 so far?

I approached The Co-op Bank almost three weeks ago (mid October) for a basic account with the appropriate documentation. I wanted an ethical bank so I chose The Co-op over other bigger banks like Barclay's, Lloyd's TSB, and HSBC. The Co-op said they'd have to send my information up to the headquarters in Manchester, but it's been almost three weeks and there's nary a peep on my progress of getting an account.

I have rent to pay and I'd like to get an account ASAP so I can pay my bills and also collect my salary from my employment. What are my options at this point? Should I bail and find a bigger bank? How long has it taken anybody else? I'm on a Tier 2 visa, so it's clear I'm not in the country illegally. It's frustrating that it's taking so long to just set up a basic account.

Which other banks have people had good experiences with?

What's the average time that it's taken new arrivals to the UK to open a bank account in the fall of 2012 so far?

How long is a piece of string?

Why don't you phone Coop & chase up your application, get an update, etc?

Another alternative to bigger/high street banks, is there a credit union option available to you?

http://www.abcul.org/home

http://www.findyourcreditunion.co.uk/home

Also, some building societies offer current accounts...

http://www.bsa.org.uk/

Hi
It took us weeks with the Cooperative and that was just to get my hubby (USC) on my account so we have a joint account. He tried to get his own but wasn't successful but we found out within a few days for that (and I think we made a mistake and it wasn't for the basic account!).

They did tell us at the bank when we were signing up for him to go on my account that they do take a while at 'head office' and it did take weeks. It was a good 6 weeks ago now and he still hasn't got a bank card so we need to chase that up.

I would echo Mrs Robinson and give them a call to see what's happening.

Good luck
x

My husband banks with Lloyds and Lloyds welcomes new accounts from people from other countries . He introduced me , I brought my passport and opened up a savings and checking with no deposit go figure right away oh I also brought my marriage certificate I have not had one problem

I was able to open a checking account with Barclays in one visit. I had all of my papers and my debit card within a week, but I think I did have to go back a week later to pick up some papers. All I brought was a passport and 60 Pounds for a first deposit.

Barclay's.  One hour.

I had a similar experience as others with Barclays. Have been very happy with them.