What you need to open a savings account at NatWest
NatWest requires proof of identity, proof of address, and your National Insurance number before you can open a savings account. You'll also need to be at least 18 years old and a UK resident. If you don't have a current account with NatWest already, you can open a savings account on its own — you don't need to be an existing customer.
The documents NatWest accepts for identity include a valid passport, UK photocard driving licence, or a biometric residence permit if you're not a UK citizen. For proof of address, they'll take a recent utility bill, council tax bill, or mortgage statement — something dated within the last three months that shows your name and current address.
You can start the process online, by phone, or in a branch. Online is usually the fastest route if you have the documents ready to upload or photograph.
Key Takeaways
- NatWest requires a valid form of ID, proof of address from the last three months, and your National Insurance number to open a savings account.
- You can open a savings account without having a NatWest current account, and you must be at least 18 years old and a UK resident.
- Opening online typically takes 10 to 15 minutes if you have your documents ready, and you can often start saving the same day.
- NatWest offers different savings accounts with varying interest rates, so compare the options before you choose which one to open.
Opening a savings account online
Go to the NatWest website and select "Open a savings account" from the main menu. You'll be asked to enter your personal details — name, date of birth, address, and National Insurance number. NatWest will then ask you to verify your identity using either your passport or driving licence. You'll photograph or upload the document, and the system checks it automatically.
Next, you'll choose which savings account you want to open. NatWest offers several types: fixed-rate savings bonds (where your money is locked away for a set period), straightforward-access savings accounts (where you can withdraw whenever you want), and cash ISAs (a tax-free savings account, up to a limit). Each has a different interest rate, so read the terms before you decide.
Once you've chosen your account and confirmed your details, NatWest will tell you whether you've been approved. If you have, you can fund the account when ready by bank transfer from another bank account in your name. The account is usually active the same day.
Opening a savings account in a NatWest branch
If you prefer to open your account face-to-face, visit your nearest NatWest branch with your proof of identity, proof of address, and National Insurance number. A staff member will help you fill in the process form and answer any questions about the different savings accounts available.
The branch staff can also help you fund the account straight away if you want to deposit cash or arrange a transfer. Processing usually takes a few minutes, and you'll leave with your account open and ready to use.
You can find your nearest branch and opening hours on the NatWest website or by calling 0370 010 0000.
Opening a savings account by phone
Call NatWest on 0370 010 0000 and ask to open a savings account. A staff member will take your details over the phone and ask you to confirm your identity using information from your credit file — questions like "Which of these addresses have you lived at?" or "Which of these credit cards do you hold?" You don't need to have the documents with you during the call, but you will need to upload or post them within a few days to complete the process.
Phone opening usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. Once you've finished the call, NatWest will send you a confirmation email with next steps and details of how to fund your account.
What happens after you open your account
Once your account is approved and funded, you can start earning interest on your savings. NatWest will pay interest either monthly or annually, depending on which account you chose — check your account terms to see when you'll receive it.
You can manage your account online through NatWest's website or mobile app, or by visiting a branch. If you need to withdraw money, the method depends on your account type: straightforward-access accounts let you withdraw when ready, while fixed-rate bonds have a set maturity date when you can access your money without penalty.
If you opened an straightforward-access account and later want to switch to a fixed-rate bond or ISA, you can usually do that online or by contacting NatWest directly.
Documents you'll need to have ready
| Document type | What NatWest accepts | How recent it needs to be |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of identity | Valid UK passport, UK photocard driving licence, or biometric residence permit | Must be valid (not expired) |
| Proof of address | Utility bill, council tax bill, mortgage statement, or tenancy agreement | Dated within the last three months |
| National Insurance number | Your NI number (you can find it on a payslip, tax return, or letter from HMRC) | No document needed — just the number |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to open a NatWest savings account?
Online opening usually takes 10 to 15 minutes if you have your documents ready. Your account is typically active the same day. In-branch opening is also quick — usually 15 to 20 minutes. Phone opening takes a similar length of time, but you'll need to upload documents within a few days to complete the process.
Can I open a NatWest savings account if I don't have a current account with them?
Yes. You can open a savings account with NatWest without having a current account. However, you'll need a bank account somewhere to fund your savings account initially — NatWest will ask you to transfer money from another bank account in your name.
What if I don't have a National Insurance number?
NatWest requires a National Insurance number to open a savings account. If you don't have one, you can contact HMRC to request one. The process can take several weeks, so plan ahead if you're new to the UK.
Can I open a savings account if I'm not a UK resident?
NatWest requires you to be a UK resident to open a savings account. If you have a biometric residence permit or visa that shows you're legally resident in the UK, you may be able to open an account — contact NatWest directly to check your situation.
What's the difference between a fixed-rate bond and an straightforward-access account?
A fixed-rate bond locks your money away for a set period (usually 1 to 5 years) in exchange for a higher interest rate. An straightforward-access account lets you withdraw money whenever you want, but usually pays a lower rate. Choose based on whether you need access to your money soon or can leave it untouched.