Foundation · Finance

Opening a bank account

Your goal: ask for information about opening an account and provide basic personal details. Essential steps for managing your money abroad.

1

Survival Phrases

Asking for information

  • I'd like to open a new account.
  • What documents do I need?
  • Do you have an international account?

Personal details

  • Here is my passport.
  • I live at [address].
  • Is there a monthly fee?
2

Model Dialogue

Customer: Hello. I'd like to open a bank account, please.

Banker: Certainly. Do you have your ID with you?

Customer: Yes, here is my passport.

Banker: Thank you. And do you have a proof of address?

Customer: Is a utility bill okay?

Banker: Yes, that's perfect. Please fill out this form.

3

Register: formal vs informal

SituationFormal (Bank Staff)Casual (Information)
RequestingI would like to open...I want to open...
DocumentsPlease provide your ID.Can I see your ID?
4

Typical Mistakes

  • I want open a bank. → I want to open a bank account.
  • Where is the papers? → What documents do I need?
5

Culture Note

  • Proof of Address: Banks in the UK and many other countries need this to be sure you actually live where you say you live. A utility bill (gas, electricity, water) or a rental contract works best.
6

Practical Task

  1. Simulate. Imagine you are at the bank. Say what you need and ask about the documents.
  • ☐state you want to open an account?
  • ☐ask about the necessary documents?