You cannot open a Bank of Ireland current account entirely online from outside Ireland

Bank of Ireland requires you to visit a branch in person to open a current account, even if you are an existing customer. You cannot complete the full process online, by post, or by phone. If you are outside Ireland, you will need to travel to a branch or use an alternative bank that offers remote account opening.

Bank of Ireland does offer some online options for specific account types — mainly savings accounts and investment products — but these are limited and require you to already have an Irish address and tax identification. The in-person requirement exists because Irish banking regulations require identity verification and proof of address to be done face-to-face for current accounts.

If you are in Ireland and can visit a branch, the process takes about 30 minutes. You will need a valid passport or driving licence, proof of your current address (a utility bill or bank statement dated within the last three months), and your PPS number (Personal Public Service number). Bring originals, not copies.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of Ireland current accounts require an in-person visit to a branch; no fully online option exists for this account type.
  • You need a valid ID, proof of address dated within three months, and your PPS number to open an account at a branch.
  • Some savings accounts and investment products can be opened online if you already have an Irish address and tax ID, but these are not current accounts.
  • If you cannot visit a branch in Ireland, you may need to consider banks that offer remote account opening to non-residents.

What documents you need to bring to a branch

Bring your original passport or driving licence — Bank of Ireland will not accept copies or digital versions. The ID must be valid (not expired) and must show your photograph, signature, and full name. If your ID does not have a signature, bring a second form of ID that does.

Proof of address must be dated within the last three months and show your name and current address. A utility bill (electricity, gas, water, or broadband), a bank statement, a mortgage statement, or a council tax bill all work. Post office statements and letters from your employer do not. If you have recently moved and your proof of address shows an old address, bring a letter from your landlord or a tenancy agreement instead.

Your PPS number is required. If you do not have one yet, you will need to register with the Department of Social Protection before you can open a bank account. This process takes several weeks, so do not leave it until the last minute.

What happens during the in-person appointment

You do not need to book an appointment in advance at most Bank of Ireland branches, but you can if you prefer. Walk-ins are usually served during regular branch hours, though wait times vary. Bring all your documents and expect the process to take 20 to 40 minutes.

The staff member will check your ID and address proof, record your PPS number, and ask you questions about the source of your funds and the purpose of the account. They will also ask about your employment status and whether you have any other bank accounts. Answer honestly — these questions are part of anti-money-laundering checks required by law.

You will sign the account opening form and choose your PIN. The account is usually activated the same day or the next business day. You will receive your debit card by post within 7 to 10 working days. Online banking access is usually available immediately after the account opens, so you can log in and check your balance before your card arrives.

Online and savings accounts that do not require a branch visit

Bank of Ireland offers some products that can be opened online, but they are not current accounts. These include fixed-rate savings accounts, notice accounts, and investment products. To open these, you must already have an Irish address, an Irish phone number, and a PPS number. You will still need to provide ID and proof of address, but you can do this by uploading photos of your documents through the online form.

If you already have a Bank of Ireland current account, opening additional savings or investment products online is straightforward and takes about 10 minutes. If you do not have an existing account, you cannot use this route.

Some online banks and fintech companies operate in Ireland and do offer fully remote account opening, but they are not Bank of Ireland. If you need an account urgently and cannot visit a branch, research these alternatives — they may have different requirements and features.

If you are outside Ireland and want a Bank of Ireland account

Bank of Ireland does not open current accounts for people who do not have an Irish address. If you are a non-resident, you have three options: travel to Ireland and visit a branch in person, use a different bank that serves non-residents, or open an account with an online bank that operates internationally.

Some international banks and payment services (such as Wise, Revolut, or N26) offer accounts that can be opened entirely online and work across multiple countries. These are not Bank of Ireland, but they may meet your needs if you need to send or receive money to and from Ireland. Compare their fees, exchange rates, and features before choosing.

If you have family or a trusted contact in Ireland, they cannot open an account on your behalf. The account must be opened by the person whose name will be on it, and they must be present at the branch.

What to do if you cannot visit a branch

If you are in Ireland but cannot reach a branch due to distance or mobility issues, contact Bank of Ireland directly to ask about exceptions. Some branches may be able to arrange a phone or video appointment, though this is not standard and depends on the branch. Call 1800 365 365 (free from Irish landlines and mobiles) or visit your nearest branch to ask.

If you are outside Ireland and need an Irish bank account, your options are limited. Some Irish banks offer accounts to Irish citizens living abroad if they can provide proof of Irish residency (such as a previous address or family connection), but Bank of Ireland's policy is strict. Contact them directly to confirm whether you might be an exception, but do not expect a yes.

If you need to move money to or from Ireland regularly, a specialist money transfer service or an international payment app may be faster and cheaper than opening a traditional bank account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Bank of Ireland account if I do not have a PPS number yet?

No. You must register for a PPS number with the Department of Social Protection before you can open a bank account. Registration takes several weeks. If you are a non-Irish citizen working in Ireland, you can register online or at a local social welfare office. Start this process as soon as you arrive.

What if my proof of address is older than three months?

Bank of Ireland will not accept it. Get a new utility bill, bank statement, or mortgage statement dated within the last three months. If you have just moved, a tenancy agreement or a letter from your landlord with the current date works instead.

Do I need to book an appointment to open an account at a branch?

No, most branches accept walk-ins during business hours. You can book an appointment online or by phone if you prefer to avoid waiting, but it is not required. Call 1800 365 365 or visit your local branch to book.

How long does it take to get my debit card after I open an account?

Your debit card is posted to you within 7 to 10 working days. You can use online banking and mobile banking immediately after your account opens, so you do not have to wait for the card to start using your account.

Can someone else open an account on my behalf?

No. The person whose name is on the account must be present at the branch and must provide their own ID and proof of address. Bank of Ireland will not open an account for someone who is not physically present.