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Opening a bank account

How do you open a bank account in Ireland?

To open a current account in Ireland, you’ll need valid proof of identity and address. You can apply online, in-branch, through a mobile app, by phone or post, and some providers allow non-residents to apply remotely. Joint and student accounts have different rules.

Compare fees and features using the Current account comparison tool. Joint accounts require ID and address for all holders and agreement on access rules. Student and teen accounts have age limits and may need parental approval. If your application is refused, complain to the provider and escalate to the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman if unresolved.

What documents do you need to open a bank account?

You’ll need to provide:

Your ID must be valid and match your proof of address. Your proof of address should be less than six months old or 12 months for insurance and mortgage documents.

What should you do before visiting a branch?

Contact the branch in advance to:

  • Check if you need an appointment
  • Request a full list of accepted documents

Can you open a bank account if you don’t live in Ireland?

Yes, some providers allow non-residents to open accounts remotely. You may need to:

  • Be a resident of an EU Member State
  • Provide two proofs of identity and address
  • Apply via app, online, phone or post

What should you consider when choosing a bank account?

Pick a provider that suits your needs:

  • Prefer face-to-face service? Choose one with nationwide branches.
  • Use online banking? Make sure they offer a reliable app or website.
  • Deal in cash? Confirm they allow deposits and withdrawals, and check branch hours.

Use the CCPC Current account comparison tool to compare fees and services. In the following video, Eoin McGee answers questions from the public on bank accounts.

Can you open a joint account in Ireland?

Yes, you might open a joint account with:

  • A partner (for household expenses)
  • A relative (for care costs)
  • A business partner

You’ll both need to provide proof of ID and address. Decide whether:

  • Each person can access the account individually
  • All signatures are required for transactions
  • Ask what happens if one account holder dies.

How do you open a student or teen account?

Each provider has different rules.

  • Some accounts are available from age 11 or 13
  • A parent or guardian may need to sign or approve a debit card
  • If you already bank with the provider, it may be easier to open an account for your child

What if you have trouble opening an account?

If you’re refused:

  1. Speak to a senior staff member or manager
  2. Make a formal complaint to the provider
  3. If unresolved, escalate to the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman

Key tips to protect yourself when choosing online or mobile banking services

Before choosing a service:

  • Think about what you need (e.g. saving, spending, budgeting).
  • Read about the services carefully.
  • Make sure it suits your needs and budget.
  • Compare a few options before deciding.

Read and understand the terms and conditions before signing

When concluding an agreement for a particular service:

  • Ask the provider to make available to you the pre-contractual information on your rights and obligations as it is required to do.
  • Download the documents and save or print them for future reference.
  • Look at the characteristics of the service, the contract duration, the total cost, any additional charges, and, if applicable, conditions of your right of withdrawal.
  • Make sure you understand the implications of your financial commitment (e.g., what happens if things go wrong?).
  • Ask the provider for clarifications if unsure about any particular detail.

Pay particular attention to all fees and charges

  • Take enough time to review financial conditions of agreement and the whole pricing list.
  • Focus not only on fees applicable to the main service/package but also check charges including standard fees and the costs of additional services.
  • Where available, use "total cost indicator" (e.g., annual percentage rate) to compare different options.

Think about security

  • Understand how personal information will be treated under agreement
  • Check identity, contact details and legal status of the provider and whether it is authorised to provide the services, to avoid being the victim of fraud.
  • Keep your personal details safe from fraud and cybercrime, use strong and unique passwords for each account, update your software regularly and avoid using public Wi-Fi when accessing sensitive information.

File a complaint if you think your rights have been denied

First, try to solve the problem yourself by writing directly to the provider. If the provider does not respond or you are not satisfied with their response, you can consider:

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