If you’re starting a business in the UK, one of your first steps will likely be opening a business bank account.
But what if you don’t have a physical office? Can you use a virtual address instead?
The short answer is yes, you can use a virtual address to open a UK business bank account. However, there are a few important things to keep in mind to make sure the process goes smoothly.
What is a virtual address?
A virtual address is a professional business address you can use without renting physical office space. It’s ideal for remote businesses, freelancers, and startups looking to protect their privacy while maintaining a professional presence.
A virtual office address can be used on your website and marketing materials, whereas a registered office address and directors’ service address is used to register with Companies House to keep your home address private.
With a provider like Virtually There, you can use your virtual address for:
- Opening a business bank account
Receiving HMRC and legal correspondence
Listing on your website and marketing materials
Virtual addresses are especially popular with home-based business owners who want to keep their residential address private while still meeting legal and professional requirements.
Why banks ask for an address
UK banks are legally required to carry out Know Your Customer (KYC) checks when opening a business account. This includes verifying your company’s address, as well as the identity of its directors and anyone with significant control over the business.
They want to confirm your business is legitimate, contactable, and operating within UK law. This is where many new business owners get stuck, especially if they run their company from home or operate entirely online.
Using your home address can raise privacy concerns. Leaving the address blank isn’t an option. This is why a virtual address is a perfect solution.
Use a virtual address that’s bank-ready
Not all virtual address providers are equal. Some banks won’t accept PO boxes or mailbox-only services. You need a real, reputable business address that aligns with the UK’s compliance standards.
At Virtually There, we provide virtual addresses that are fully compliant with UK banking law requirements. All our addresses are tied to real UK business centres in major cities like London, Manchester, Birmingham, and beyond, not just forwarding depots or drop points.
We’ve helped thousands of UK businesses open their first business bank account using our virtual addresses. Whether you’re a freelancer, e-commerce entrepreneur or limited company director, our locations are recognised and accepted by all the leading high street banks and digital banking platforms.
Tips for opening your UK business bank account
When applying for a UK business bank account using your virtual address:
Make sure your company is registered at the same address with Companies House
Have your ID and proof of address documents ready for KYC checks
Choose a virtual office provider, like Virtually There, that offers address verification or proof of address letters if needed
Open your account with confidence
Join the thousands of businesses using Virtually There to get a professional virtual address that works, not just for Companies House, but for your bank too.
Explore our virtual office and registered office address plans today and start building your business the smart way.
Paul Sandquest ,Head of Marketing
Paul is Head of Marketing at Virtually There and has over a decade of experience supporting businesses across the globe.
