Yes, you can open most NatWest accounts online from start to finish

NatWest lets you open a current account (their main checking account) entirely online without visiting a branch. The process takes about 15 minutes and you can do it on your phone or computer. You'll need to prove who you are using your passport or driving licence, and you'll need to be at least 18 years old and a UK resident.

Not every NatWest account type is available online — some savings accounts and specialist products still require a branch visit or phone call. But their standard current accounts, which is what most people need, are fully available online.

Key Takeaways

  • NatWest current accounts can be opened online using your passport or UK driving licence as proof of identity.
  • The online process takes about 15 minutes and you can complete it on a phone or computer without visiting a branch.
  • You must be 18 or older, a UK resident, and have a UK address to open an account online.
  • Your account is usually ready to use within one working day, though you may need to wait for your debit card to arrive by post.
  • If you don't have a passport or driving licence, you can open an account by visiting a branch in person instead.

What you need before you start

Gather these things before you begin the online process. You'll need a valid passport or UK driving licence — this is how NatWest confirms who you are. The document must be current (not expired) and the photo must be clear enough to match your face.

You'll also need proof of your current address. NatWest accepts a recent utility bill, council tax bill, or mortgage statement — usually from the last three months. If you've recently moved and don't have a bill in your name yet, a tenancy agreement or letter from your landlord works too.

Have your National Insurance number ready (you can find it on your payslip or tax documents). You'll also need a mobile phone number and an email address that you can access during the sign-up process, because NatWest sends a code to both to confirm it's really you.

The step-by-step online process

Go to the NatWest website and look for "Open an account" or "New customer". You'll be asked to choose which type of current account you want — NatWest offers several versions with different features and overdraft limits. The basic account is fine if you're new to banking.

Enter your personal details: full name, date of birth, National Insurance number, and current address. NatWest checks these against records held by credit reference agencies to confirm you are who you say you are. This is called identity verification and it happens when ready.

Next, you'll upload a photo of your passport or driving licence. Take the photo in good light so the text and your face are both clear. NatWest's system reads the document automatically, so the quality matters. If the photo is too blurry, you'll be asked to try again.

You'll then take a selfie — a photo of your face — so NatWest can check it matches your ID document. This is called facial recognition and it takes a few seconds. The system compares your face to the photo on your passport or licence.

Finally, you'll set up your login details: a username and password. NatWest will send a security code to your mobile phone and email to confirm you own both. Once you enter those codes, your account is created and you can log in straight away.

When your account is ready to use

Your account number and sort code are available when ready after you finish the online process — you can see them in the app or online banking straight away. This means you can give these details to your employer or to anyone who needs to send you money.

However, you won't be able to spend money until your debit card arrives. NatWest posts the card to your address, which usually takes 5 to 10 working days. Until it arrives, you can transfer money out of your account online, but you can't use it in shops or at cash machines.

If you need cash before the card arrives, you can visit a NatWest branch and withdraw money using your account number and sort code, or you can ask someone to transfer money to you and then withdraw it.

What happens if the online process doesn't work for you

If your identity verification fails — for example, if your photo is too blurry or your face doesn't match your ID clearly enough — NatWest will tell you why and let you try again. You usually get two or three attempts before the system asks you to visit a branch instead.

If you don't have a passport or UK driving licence, you can't complete the online process. In that case, visit your nearest NatWest branch with proof of identity (a non-UK passport, a national ID card from another country, or a travel document) and proof of address. The branch staff will open the account for you in person.

If you're under 18, you can't open a standard adult account online. NatWest offers accounts for young people aged 11 to 17, but these must be opened in a branch with a parent or guardian present.

How to log in after your account opens

NatWest has two ways to access your account: the mobile app and online banking through a web browser. read the NatWest app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, or go to online.natwest.com in your browser.

Use the username and password you created during sign-up. NatWest will send a security code to your phone each time you log in from a new device — this is called two-factor authentication and it protects your account from unauthorised access.

The app and the website show the same information: your balance, recent transactions, and options to transfer money, pay bills, or set up standing orders (regular payments). Most people find the app easier to use on a phone.

What to do if you have questions during sign-up

NatWest's website has a live chat option during business hours (usually 8am to 10pm, seven days a week). You can also call them on 0370 010 0000 — this number is free from most phones. Have your National Insurance number ready when you call.

If you get stuck on identity verification, don't close the app or browser — the system usually lets you pause and come back later. Your progress is saved, so you can try again the next day if you need to retake a photo or gather better documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a NatWest account if I don't have a UK address?

No. NatWest requires a UK residential address to open an account online. If you're moving to the UK and don't yet have an address, you can open an account once you have one — even if it's temporary accommodation like a hostel or a friend's address where mail can reach you.

What if my passport or driving licence is expired?

NatWest won't accept an expired document for online sign-up. You'll need to renew your passport or licence first, or visit a branch in person with alternative ID. A non-UK passport, national ID card, or travel document is accepted at branches.

Can I open a joint account online with someone else?

No. Joint accounts must be opened in a branch with both account holders present. You can open a personal account online, and then visit a branch later if you want to add a joint holder to it.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

NatWest usually posts debit cards within 5 to 10 working days of account opening. You can check the status in your online banking or app. If your card hasn't arrived after 10 working days, contact NatWest to ask them to resend it.

Can I open a savings account online instead of a current account?

Most NatWest savings accounts can only be opened in a branch or over the phone, not online. However, once you have a current account open, you can open some savings accounts through your online banking. Ask NatWest which savings products are available online when you open your current account.