Opening a UK Bank Account for Your Child or Teenager

If you have recently moved to the United Kingdom with your family, one practical step to take is opening a bank account for your child or teenager. Whether they are getting pocket money, travelling to school on their own, or learning how to manage money for the first time, a UK bank account can help build independence and financial confidence.

This guide explains the different types of accounts for young people, how to open them, what documents you need, and the best banks and apps for families new to the UK.

Can Children Have a Bank Account in the UK?

Yes. Most UK banks offer special accounts for children and teenagers. The options depend on your child’s age.

Ages 0 to 10:

  • Usually savings accounts only
  • Managed by a parent or guardian
  • No debit card

Ages 11 to 17:

  • Can open a current account (with parental permission)
  • Includes a debit card and online banking
  • May have spending limits

Age 18 and up:

  • Eligible for full adult current accounts
  • Can apply independently without parental control

Why Open a UK Account for Your Child?

  • Makes it easier to send pocket money or school expenses
  • Teaches budgeting and responsible spending
  • Helps older teens manage part-time job income
  • Makes UK life feel more stable and local for your child
  • Some schools or clubs may prefer bank payments

What You Need to Open an Account

Documents required:

For the child or teen:

  • Proof of identity (passport or UK birth certificate)
  • Proof of address (can be tricky, more on that below)

For the parent or guardian:

  • Photo ID (passport or driving licence)
  • Proof of address (UK utility bill, rental agreement or bank statement)

Some banks may also ask for the child’s visa or residence status, especially for non-UK nationals.

Tip: If your child does not have a UK address in their name, the bank may accept your proof of address and a shared household document like a tenancy agreement.

Best Bank Accounts for Children and Teens in the UK

Here are some of the most popular and helpful accounts for young people — especially useful for families who are new to the UK.

Santander 123 Mini Account (Ages 11–17)

  • No fees
  • Includes a debit card
  • Earns interest on savings
  • Parent must have a Santander account if child is under 13

👉 View Santander 123 Mini Account

HSBC MyMoney Account (Ages 11–17)

  • No monthly fee
  • Comes with debit card and online banking
  • Can open with a passport and address

👉 Check HSBC teen account options

NatWest Adapt Account (Ages 11–17)

  • Designed for easy mobile banking
  • Includes budgeting features
  • No charges or overdrafts

👉 Explore NatWest Adapt Account

Revolut <18 (Ages 6–17)

  • App-based account linked to the parent’s Revolut
  • Instant transfers from parent to child
  • Built-in tools for saving and budgeting
  • Great for tech-savvy teens and frequent travellers

👉 Try Revolut <18 here

Good option if you already use Revolut for your own banking.

What About Prepaid Cards?

For younger kids or if you prefer more control, you can try a prepaid debit card. These are topped up by parents and work like a normal card, but cannot go into overdraft.

Popular options:

  • GoHenry
  • RoosterMoney
  • HyperJar for Families

These tools include parental controls, spending limits and goal tracking.

👉 Compare prepaid cards for kids

Teaching Your Child to Use Their Account

Once the account is open, help your child:

  • Learn to check their balance
  • Use contactless payments safely
  • Set savings goals and track spending
  • Understand how to avoid scams or overspending

Set regular times to talk about money — perhaps when their allowance arrives or after a shopping trip.

Online and Mobile Banking for Teens

Most youth accounts now come with an app. This helps young people:

  • Monitor spending
  • Save automatically
  • Get real-time alerts

Apps like Revolut, NatWest and Monzo offer child-friendly versions of their main apps with fewer features but full visibility.

Things to Watch Out For

  • No overdrafts: Youth accounts do not allow spending more than the balance
  • Spending limits: Some accounts have daily or monthly caps
  • Location limits: Some cards may not work abroad unless enabled
  • ATM access: Not all youth cards allow cash withdrawal

Make sure the account matches your child’s needs and habits.

What If You Are New to the UK?

Opening a child’s account as a newcomer is possible, but you may face small delays while setting up your own account and providing address proof.

Steps:

  1. Open your own UK account first
  2. Get a UK address and proof of residence
  3. Choose a youth account from the same bank or a flexible provider
  4. Visit a branch with your child or apply online if possible

Final Thoughts

Helping your child open their first bank account in the UK is a smart and practical step. It makes daily life easier, builds confidence with money, and supports your family’s sense of belonging in a new country.

Whether you choose a traditional bank like HSBC or a modern option like Revolut, the key is to keep it simple, safe and educational.