Proof of identity to open a bank account
Introduction
When you are opening an account with a financial institution such as a bank or credit union, it must establish proof of your identity. This requirement is set down in anti-money laundering legislation.
The Central Bank has an explainer on why you must prove your identity when opening a bank account.
Rules
When you are opening an account, you cannot use the same document as proof of both your identity and your address. You will need at least one form of photographic identification (photo ID) to prove your identity and at least one document to prove your address.
Examples of documents that banks may accept as photo ID include:
- Valid passport
- Valid driving licence
- Irish Government Travel Document
- Temporary Residence Certificate
- Irish Residency Permit
Your proof of identity must be in date. The name on your photo ID must match the name on your proof of address.
Examples of documents that banks may accept as proof of your address include:
- Current utility bill (such as a gas, electricity or telephone or mobile phone bill)
- Current car or home insurance policy that shows your address
- Document issued by a government department that shows your address
- Copy of your Tax Credit Certificate (TCC)
- Statement of Liability (previously P21) from Revenue
Your proof of address must be less than 6 months old (or 12 months for an insurance policy).
In some cases a bank may ask you for your PPS number – for example, if you are claiming tax relief on the interest paid on a mortgage loan.
Copies of the documents you use to establish your identity must be kept by the bank for 5 years after an account is closed.
If you cannot provide the standard documents
If you cannot provide the standard documents requested, contact the bank for advice on alternatives that may be acceptable.
There is a guide to opening a bank account for refugees and asylum seekers (pdf). You can also download the guide for international protection applicants in other languages.
Requests for information on transactions
Bank staff must know the nature of their customers' business and can ask for information about the level and type of business that is likely to be transacted through the account. You can also be asked to provide confirmation of the source of your funds and to give reasons for carrying out certain transactions.
How to apply
Contact your bank or financial institution to get full details of the identification it requires.