Why do we need documentary evidence?
In line with Money Laundering Regulations, we are required by law to have procedures in place to prevent criminals from using financial products or services to launder ‘dirty’ money.
A key defence against money laundering is to prevent accounts being opened using false identities. As criminals can appear to be law-abiding citizens, we apply our procedures to all customers to be fully satisfied that they are who they claim to be.
To open an account with ICBC (London) Plc, you must provide evidence of your identity and confirmation of your address. Please note the same document cannot be used for both identity and residency verification purposes. We do not accept internet statements.

Acceptable identification documents

✓ A valid passport
✓ A valid UK photocard driving licence
✓ A current EEA member state national ID card
✓ Original notification letter from Benefits Agency/Local Authority on official headed paper confirming your right to UK benefits from Benefits agency, Department of Work and Pensions (including Jobcentre Plus), Child Benefit Office or Veterans Agency.
✓ HMRC tax coding notification letter
✓ Self-employed in the Construction Industry – tax exemption certificate with photo of holder
✓ A valid firearms certificate or shotgun licence

Acceptable address verification documents

✓ Current council tax bill
✓ UK utility bill dated within the last 3 months (gas, electricity etc, mobile phones are NOT acceptable)
✓ Bank and building society statement from a UK institution (dated within last 3 months, showing your name, current address and transactional activity on the account
✓ A valid UK photo card driving licence
✓ Tenancy agreement from council or reputable letting agency
✓ Current mortgage statement from a recognized lender
✓ Solicitor’s letter confirming recent house purchase
✓ Original notification letter from Benefits Agency/Local Authority on official headed paper confirming your right to UK benefits from Benefits agency, Department of Work and Pensions (including Jobcentre Plus), Child Benefit Office or Veterans Agency.

Important Notice: Account Opening

ICBC (London) Plc will request all original documentation alongside the completed application form to be handed in person at our offices at 81 King William Street, London EC4N 7BG (nearest train station is Bank on the London Underground).

Our opening hours - Monday to Friday 9.30 a.m. – 4.00 p.m.

Account opening acceptance is subject to status and the Bank holds the right to decide whether your application for account opening is successful or if further information is required from you. We are NOT legally required to give any explanation for any refusal.

Closing Bank Account Application

For the customer that wishes to close their bank account, ICBC (London) Plc will request the completed application form to be handed in person at our offices at 81 King William Street, London EC4N 7BG (nearest train station is Bank on the London Underground).

Our opening hours - Monday to Friday 9.30 a.m. – 4.00 p.m.

You can retrieve the Account Closure Form here.