Bank of Ireland's online account opening process
Bank of Ireland does offer online account opening for certain account types, but the process and what you can complete entirely online depends on which account you want and whether you are an existing customer. If you are a new customer opening a personal current account, you can start the process online through their website, but you will need to verify your identity in person at a branch or through a video call before the account becomes active. The whole process typically takes a few days once verification is complete.
The bank's online journey begins on their website under "Open an Account". You will provide basic information — name, address, date of birth, contact details — and answer questions about your employment and income. You choose your account type (current account, savings account, or student account if you meet the criteria) and select a branch. At this stage, you are not yet a customer; you are submitting an process that the bank will review.
What happens next depends on the account type. For a current account, Bank of Ireland will ask you to verify your identity. You can do this either by visiting a branch in person with your passport or driving licence, or by using their video verification service, which lets you complete the identity check remotely using your phone or computer. Video verification is faster if you have a clear photo ID and a stable internet connection.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of Ireland allows you to start a current account process online, but you must complete identity verification either in person at a branch or via video call before the account opens.
- Video verification is the fastest route if you have a valid passport or driving licence and a working camera; it typically takes 24 to 48 hours.
- Existing Bank of Ireland customers can open additional accounts online without visiting a branch, as the bank already has your verified identity on file.
- The bank will ask for proof of address (a utility bill or council tax document dated within the last three months) during the online process.
- Once your account is open, you can set up online banking and a mobile app when ready, but you will receive your debit card by post within 7 to 10 working days.
What documents you need before you start
Gather these documents before you begin the online process. You will need a valid photo ID — a passport, driving licence, or national ID card. The document must not be expired, and the photo must be clear enough that your face is recognisable. If you are using video verification, you will hold this document up to your camera during the call.
You will also need proof of your current address. Bank of Ireland accepts a utility bill (gas, electricity, water, or broadband), a council tax bill, or a mortgage statement. The document must be dated within the last three months and show your name and address. If you have recently moved and do not yet have a document in your new name at your new address, contact the bank before you explore — they may accept a tenancy agreement or a letter from your landlord instead.
If you are employed, have the details of your employer handy, including the company name and your job title. If you are self-employed or retired, you may be asked for additional information about your income source. The bank uses this to comply with anti-money-laundering regulations, not to decide whether to open your account.
The difference between video verification and in-person verification
Video verification is the faster option. You schedule a time slot on the Bank of Ireland website, and at the appointed time, you join a video call with a bank representative. You show your photo ID to the camera, answer a few security questions, and the verification is usually complete within minutes. The bank then processes your account, which typically takes 24 to 48 hours. You will receive an email confirming that your account is open and that you can log into online banking.
In-person verification means visiting a Bank of Ireland branch with your photo ID and proof of address. You can walk in during branch opening hours; you do not need to book an appointment. The staff member will check your documents, ask a few questions, and submit your verification on the spot. Your account is usually active the same day or the next working day. This route takes longer overall because you have to travel to a branch, but there is no waiting for a video appointment slot.
If you are uncomfortable with video calls or do not have reliable internet, in-person verification is the better choice. If you live far from a branch or prefer to complete everything from home, video verification saves time and travel.
What happens after your account opens
Once your identity is verified and your account is active, you can log into Bank of Ireland's online banking service when ready using the username and password you created during the process. You can also read the mobile app and log in with the same credentials. At this point, your account is fully functional — you can set up standing orders, view your balance, and transfer money.
Your debit card will arrive by post within 7 to 10 working days. Until it arrives, you can still access your money through online banking or the app, but you cannot use it in shops or withdraw cash from an ATM. If you need cash urgently, you can visit a branch and withdraw using your account number and sort code.
When your card arrives, it will be inactive. You must set up it through online banking or the app before you can use it. The bank will send you a PIN in a separate letter; do not share this with anyone, and do not write it down where others can see it.
If you are already a Bank of Ireland customer
If you already have an account with Bank of Ireland, opening a second account is simpler. You can do it entirely online without visiting a branch or using video verification. Log into your existing online banking, select "Open an Account", choose the account type you want, and complete the process. Because the bank already has your identity verified on file, your new account will be active within hours, sometimes when ready.
This applies whether you want a second current account, a savings account, or a specialist account like a student account (if you still meet the criteria). The process is the same: online process, when ready or near-when ready set up, debit card by post if you requested one.
Account types available online
Bank of Ireland offers several account types through online opening. Their standard current account comes with online banking, a debit card, and access to their branch and ATM network. They also offer a student current account if you are in full-time education; you will need to provide proof of student status (a student ID card or a letter from your college).
Savings accounts can also be opened online. These come in different forms — some are linked to your current account and let you move money between them when ready, while others are standalone accounts. Interest rates vary depending on the account type and how much you deposit, so check the bank's website for current rates before you explore.
Some specialist accounts, such as accounts for young people under 18 or accounts designed for specific professions, may have different opening processes. Check the Bank of Ireland website or contact their customer service to confirm whether the account you want can be opened online.
Common reasons applications are delayed or declined
Most applications are processed quickly, but some hit delays. The most common reason is incomplete or unclear identity verification. If your photo ID is blurry, expired, or does not match your current appearance, the bank will ask you to resubmit. If you are using video verification and your internet connection drops during the call, you will need to reschedule. Have a backup plan — if video does not work, you can always visit a branch instead.
Address verification can also cause delays. If your proof of address document does not clearly show your name or address, or if it is older than three months, the bank will ask for a different document. A utility bill is usually the easiest to provide; if you do not have one, a council tax bill or mortgage statement works just as well.
In rare cases, the bank may decline an process if they cannot verify your identity or if your process triggers their anti-money-laundering checks. This is not a judgment on you as a person — it is a regulatory requirement. If this happens, contact the bank's customer service line to understand what information they need.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to open a Bank of Ireland account online?
If you use video verification, the whole process takes 24 to 48 hours from the time your identity is confirmed. If you visit a branch in person, your account is usually active the same day or next working day. The online process itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes to complete.
Can I use my account before my debit card arrives?
Yes. Once your account is open, you can transfer money in and out through online banking or the app, set up standing orders, and receive payments. You cannot withdraw cash from an ATM or pay in shops until your card arrives and you set up it, but your account is fully functional for digital transactions.
What if I do not have a proof of address document dated within the last three months?
Contact Bank of Ireland before you explore. They may accept a tenancy agreement, a letter from your landlord, or a recent council tax bill even if it is slightly older. Do not submit an out-of-date document without asking first — it will delay your process.
Can I open a Bank of Ireland account if I do not live in Ireland?
Bank of Ireland's online account opening is designed for people living in Ireland. If you live outside Ireland, contact their customer service to discuss your options. Some accounts may be available to people living abroad, but the process may be different.
What if my video verification call fails or I miss my appointment?
You can reschedule a new video call slot through the Bank of Ireland website, or you can visit a branch in person instead. There is no penalty for rescheduling or changing your verification method.