One of the most important requirements for obtaining a visa to enter the United Kingdom for any purpose (education, work, or permanent residence) is proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses. Showing that you can support yourself financially without resorting to public assistance is a crucial criterion set by the UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI). This can be done by opening a bank account in India with approved financial institutions (UKVI). The selection and use of such banks are critical to the success of your visa application; we’ll walk you through the steps below on UKVI Approved Banks in India.

Understating list of approved banks for UK visas in India

Banks in India that have been granted UKVI approval are those that have met the rigorous standards imposed by the UK Visas and Immigration Service. These financial institutions have shown that they can assist international students and other visa applicants with their financial needs in the United Kingdom. Choosing a bank on the UKVI’s list shows the UK government that you have a valid way to pay for your stay in the country.

What should you remember while choosing UKVI-approved banks?

When selecting a UKVI-approved bank list in India, consider the following factors:

Recognition: Verify that the bank has been approved by UK Visas and Immigration. The UK government maintains a current list of licenced financial institutions online.

Documentation: To learn what documentation is needed to create a bank account for a visa, check the bank’s website or go to a branch. There may be a need to show identification, residency, and financial stability.

Services and Fees: Examine the costs, exchange rates, and other particulars of the bank’s overseas services. Pick a financial institution that provides you with simple, low-cost options for handling your international funds.

How do you open and manage your account?

Once you’ve selected a UKVI-approved bank, follow these steps:

Visit the bank: Take your documentation of support to the local bank branch. The helpful bank staff will guide you step-by-step through opening an account.

Prove funds: Show that you can afford to visit the United Kingdom by submitting the required paperwork. This may require providing proof of financial stability, such as bank statements.

Currency conversion: You can keep track of your money in both Indian Rupees and British Pounds with the help of multi-currency accounts offered by some institutions. 

Online banking: You may manage your accounts and conduct transactions conveniently from home with the help of the many online banking services provided by banks recognised by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

Maintain the required balance: Be sure to keep at least the minimum amount in your bank account to satisfy UKVI’s regulations.

UKVI-approved bank list in India

Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided in this article regarding the list of UKVI-approved banks in India is subject to change. Bank policies and facilities may vary over time, and therefore, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or current status of the information presented. It is recommended to verify with the respective banks or official sources for the most up-to-date and accurate details. We do not assume any liability for any inaccuracies or changes in the information provided.

“Please contact our counsellors to find out which banks are approved for UK visas in India.”

UKVI’s updated list of approved banks for UK visas in India in 2024

Scheduled Commercial Banks: IndiaKotak Mahindra Bank Limited
Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank LtdKarnataka Bank
American Express Bank LtdKarur Vysya Bank Limited
Arab Bangladesh Bank LimitedLord Krishna Bank Ltd
Allahabad BankMashreqbank psc
Andhra BankMizuho Corporate Bank Ltd
Antwerp Diamond Bank NVOman International Bank S A O G
Axis Bank LtdOriental Bank of Commerce
Bank International IndonesiaPunjab & Sind Bank
Bank of America NAPunjab National Bank
Bank of Bahrain & Kuwait BSCSociete General
Barclays Bank PlcSonali Bank Standard Chartered Bank
BNP PARIBASState Bank of Mauritius Ltd
Bank of CeylonSBI Commercial and International Bank Ltd
Bharat Overseas Bank LtdState Bank of Bikaner and Jaipur
Bank of BarodaState Bank of Hyderabad
Bank of IndiaState Bank of India
Bank of MaharashtraState Bank of Indore
Canara BankState Bank of Mysore
Central Bank of IndiaState Bank of Patiala
Calyon BankState Bank of Saurashtra
Citibank NAState Bank of Travancore
Cho Hung BankSyndicate Bank
Chinatrust Commercial Bank LtdThe Bank of Nova Scotia
Centurion Bank of Punjab LimitedThe Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi, Ltd
City Union Bank LtdThe Development Bank of Singapore Ltd (DBS Bank Ltd.)
Coastal Local Area Bank LtdThe Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Ltd
Corporation BankTamilnad Mercantile Bank Ltd
Catholic Syrian Bank LtdThe Bank of Rajasthan Limited
Deutsche Bank AGThe Federal Bank Ltd
Development Credit Bank LtdHDFC Bank Ltd
Dena BankThe Jammu & Kashmir Bank Ltd
Dhanlaxmi BankThe Nainital Bank Ltd
IndusInd Bank LimitedSangli Bank Ltd
ICICI BankThe South Indian Bank Ltd
IDBI Bank LimitedRatnakar Bank Ltd
IDFC Bank LtdThe Royal Bank of Scotland NV
Indian BankLakshmi Vilas Bank Ltd
Indian Overseas BankUCO Bank
Industrial Development Bank of IndiaUnion Bank of India
ING Vysya BankUnited Bank of India
J P Morgan Chase Bank, National AssociationVijaya Bank
Krung Thai Bank Public Company LimitedYes Bank

An essential part of applying for a UK visa is choosing a bank in India that is recognised by the UK Visas and Immigration Service. You can show the UK Visas and Immigration Department that you are financially stable by selecting a bank that satisfies their standards.

Before applying for a visa to study in the UK from India, it’s important to learn as much as possible about the services, costs, and documentation requirements of the bank you plan to use. With the proper financial institution by your side, you may confidently set out for the United Kingdom

FAQs

Which banks are approved for UKVI in India?

Major Indian banking companies like ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, and State Bank of India are now included on the updated list of approved banks for UK visa applications in India.

What are the UKVI-approved banks in India?

UKVI-approved banks in India are financial institutions that meet the specific criteria set by the UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) for visa applicants. These banks are recognised by the UKVI as reliable options for demonstrating your financial ability to support yourself during your stay in the UK.

Why do I need to open an account with a UKVI-approved bank?

Opening an account with a UKVI-approved bank is essential to providing evidence of sufficient funds for your UK visa application. It demonstrates to the UK authorities that you have a legitimate source of funds to cover your expenses without relying on public funds.

Where can I find a list of UKVI-approved banks in India?

The official UK government website provides an updated list of UKVI-approved banks in India. You can visit the website or consult your local UK visa application centre for the most accurate information.

Can I use any bank account for my UK visa application?

To meet UKVI requirements, it’s recommended to use an account with a UKVI-approved bank.

What documents are required to open a bank account with a UKVI-approved bank?

The required documents can vary from bank to bank, but generally, you will need to provide proof of identity (passport, PAN card, etc.), proof of address, and evidence of funds. Check your chosen bank’s website or contact them directly for a comprehensive list of required documents.

How long does it take to open an account with a UKVI-approved bank?

The account opening process’s duration can vary depending on the bank and the completeness of your documentation. It’s recommended to start the process well in advance of your visa application to avoid any last-minute delays.