What you need to open a NatWest savings account

NatWest lets you open a savings account online, by phone, or in a branch. The fastest route is online if you already have a NatWest current account — you can add a savings account in minutes through their app or website. If you don't have a NatWest account yet, you'll need to open a current account first, then link a savings account to it.

To start either way, you'll need proof of identity (a valid passport or UK driving licence) and proof of address (a recent utility bill, council tax letter, or bank statement dated within the last three months). You must be at least 18 years old and a UK resident. NatWest will also run a credit check as part of their verification process.

If you're opening online, have your documents ready to photograph or upload. If you're going to a branch or calling, a staff member will walk you through what they need. The whole process usually takes between 10 and 20 minutes online, or longer in person if the branch is busy.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a NatWest savings account online through the app or website if you already have a NatWest current account, or by visiting a branch or calling 0370 010 0000.
  • You'll need a valid passport or UK driving licence and proof of address dated within the last three months, such as a utility bill or council tax letter.
  • If you don't have a NatWest current account, you must open one first before you can add a savings account.
  • Online verification usually takes 10 to 20 minutes, and your account can be ready to use the same day or within one business day.

Opening online if you already bank with NatWest

Log into the NatWest app or visit natwest.com and sign in with your current account details. Look for the option to open a savings account or add a new product — this is usually on the home screen or under "Products" or "Accounts". Select the type of savings account you want. NatWest offers fixed-rate bonds, easy-access savings, and notice accounts with different interest rates and terms.

You'll be asked to confirm your personal details and choose how much money you want to deposit initially. Some accounts have a minimum opening deposit (often £1 or £100, depending on the account type). Review the interest rate, any withdrawal restrictions, and the terms before you confirm. Once you submit, NatWest will verify your identity using information they already hold about you from your current account.

Your new savings account should be ready to use within minutes or by the next business day. You can then transfer money into it from your current account or set up standing orders to save regularly. The account number and sort code will appear in the app or online banking once it's active.

Opening a current account first if you're new to NatWest

If you don't have a NatWest current account, you'll need to open one before you can add a savings account. You can do this online at natwest.com, by calling 0370 010 0000, or by visiting a branch. The online process takes about 15 minutes and requires the same identity and address documents as a savings account.

During the current account setup, you'll choose a PIN, set up online and mobile banking, and decide whether you want a debit card. Once your current account is open and verified (usually the same day), you can then add a savings account using the steps above. Some people prefer to do both in one visit to a branch or in one phone call, which can be faster than doing them separately online.

Opening in a NatWest branch

Visit your nearest NatWest branch with your passport or driving licence and proof of address. Tell the staff member you want to open a savings account. If you don't already have a current account with NatWest, they'll open that first. Bring the original documents or clear photographs if you prefer not to carry originals.

The staff member will fill in the application with you, verify your identity on the spot, and explain the different savings account options. They can tell you the current interest rates and help you choose an account that matches what you're saving for. If you want to deposit money immediately, you can do that in the branch, and your account will be active the same day.

Opening by phone

Call NatWest on 0370 010 0000 (Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm, Saturday 9am to 5pm, Sunday 10am to 5pm). A staff member will take you through the application over the phone. Have your passport or driving licence and proof of address ready to read out or describe. They'll verify your details, explain the account options, and set up your account.

After the call, NatWest will send you a confirmation letter and your account details. Your account should be ready to use within one business day. If you need to deposit money, you can transfer it from another bank account or arrange to pay in cash at a branch once your account is open.

What happens after you've opened your account

Once your savings account is open, you can start moving money into it. If you opened online or by phone, your account number and sort code will be shown in the app or sent to you by post. You can transfer money from your NatWest current account instantly, or from another bank within one to two business days using Faster Payments or BACS.

Interest on your savings is usually paid annually or monthly, depending on the account type. NatWest will tell you when interest is paid and how much you've earned. You can check your balance and transaction history in the app or online banking at any time. If you need to withdraw money, the rules depend on your account type — easy-access accounts let you withdraw anytime, while fixed-rate bonds lock your money away until the end of the term.

If something goes wrong during setup

If your online application is rejected or stalls, NatWest will usually tell you why. Common reasons include a failed identity check (often because the name or address on your documents doesn't match their records exactly) or a credit check issue. If this happens, call 0370 010 0000 to ask what went wrong and whether you can fix it.

If you're having trouble uploading documents online, try a different browser or device, or visit a branch instead. If you've opened an account but can't see it in the app, log out and log back in, or wait until the next business day — sometimes there's a short delay before new accounts appear. If the problem persists after a day, contact NatWest directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a NatWest savings account without a current account?

No. NatWest requires you to have a current account with them before you can open a savings account. If you don't have one, you'll need to open a current account first, which takes about 15 minutes online. Once that's active, you can add a savings account in a few more minutes.

How long does it take for my account to be ready to use?

Online applications usually take 10 to 20 minutes, and your account is often ready the same day or by the next business day. Branch and phone applications may take slightly longer if there's a queue, but usually complete within one business day. You'll receive a confirmation letter by post with your full account details.

What's the minimum amount I need to open a savings account?

This depends on the account type. Some NatWest savings accounts have no minimum opening deposit, while others require £1 or £100. When you choose your account type during setup, the minimum will be shown. You can deposit more money later whenever you want.

Do I need to be a UK resident to open an account?

Yes, NatWest requires you to be a UK resident and at least 18 years old. You'll need a UK address for proof of address. If you're moving to the UK or have recently arrived, contact NatWest directly to discuss your options, as some accounts may have different requirements.

Can I open a joint savings account with NatWest?

Yes, but you'll need to open a joint current account first. Both account holders must provide identity and address documents. Visit a branch or call 0370 010 0000 to set up a joint account, as this isn't available through the online application process.