Your legal rights
Under the EU Payment Accounts Directive, implemented in Ireland by the European Union (Payment Accounts) Regulations 2016, all consumers legally resident in the EU have the right to open a basic payment account. This applies regardless of nationality, income, or financial history.
A basic payment account must allow you to: deposit money, withdraw cash, make and receive payment transfers (SEPA), and use a payment card for purchases. Banks cannot refuse to open a basic payment account for a person legally resident in Ireland without a legally permitted reason.
Why banks refuse in practice
Despite the legal right, refusals happen for several practical reasons:
Insufficient documentation
The most common reason. The specific documents requested by the bank were not provided. Solution: find out exactly what they need and reapply with the correct documents.
PPS number issues
New PPS number not yet in Revenue system, or PPS number not provided. Solution: wait 4–6 weeks, register with Revenue, then reapply.
Enhanced due diligence triggering delays or refusal
Banks apply enhanced checks for customers from certain countries or with certain immigration statuses. This is legal but can result in lengthy delays that feel like refusals. Solution: request a specific explanation in writing and escalate if the reason is not legitimate.
Branch staff error or excessive caution
Individual branch staff sometimes apply their own — incorrect — interpretation of requirements. Trying a different branch of the same bank sometimes resolves this.
Steps to take after a refusal
- 1
Request the reason in writing
Ask the bank to explain the specific reason for refusal in writing. They are legally required to tell you why. A written reason tells you exactly what to address.
- 2
Try a different branch or apply online
Branch staff discretion varies. If one branch refuses without a clear reason, try another branch or apply through the bank's online channel instead.
- 3
Try An Post Money or a credit union
An Post Money cannot refuse a basic account without a legally permitted reason, and in practice is the most accessible account in Ireland. A local credit union is the next alternative.
- 4
Make a formal complaint
If you believe a refusal is unlawful, complain formally to the bank first. If unresolved within 40 business days, escalate to the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman (FSPO) at fspo.ie. The FSPO investigates complaints about financial services providers and can order remedial action. This service is free.
More bank account guides
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