What is a proof of address and how to get one?
When you move abroad there are a number of logistical things you’ll probably need to arrange before you can start your new life. You’ll almost certainly need to open a bank account, register with a doctor - you may need to get a new driver's licence, or you may want access to government benefits or services. In all these cases you’ll need to provide proof of your address. This is a document that has your full legal name and address printed on it — but not just any document is sufficient.
To help you get started, and manage your new life abroad more easily, we’ve written this article to clarify the ins-and-outs of proofs of address. It will explain what qualifies as a proof of address, and where you can access them. We hope you find it useful.
Table of contents
WorldRemit Content Team
• 3 mins read • Updated
What is a proof of address?
As the term suggests, a proof of address refers to a document that verifies where you live. It may also be known as a proof of residence. Most banks will require this as a security measure to ensure that you’re not lying about where you live. But it’s not just with banking where it’s required; in many other aspects of managing your life, a proof of address is a crucial document.
What counts as proof of address documents?
When it comes to different institutions, each one may have a specific list of documents and rules to validate proof of address. Many places will ask for two or three proofs of address documents to verify your residential status. They usually require original documents and won’t accept copies. Generally, a proof of address can be one of the following documents:
Utility bill (such as water, electricity, gas, telephone, or Internet). This usually has to be a recent bill.
Driver’s licence
Credit card bill, or statement
Bank statement, or reference letter
Mortgage statement, or contract
Letter issued by a public authority (like a courthouse)
Company payslip
Car or home insurance policy
Letter of employment
Authorised change of address form
Car registration document
Official letter from an educational institution
Municipality (council tax) bill, or government tax letter
Residence permit
Lease agreement for you residence
How to get a proof of address
There are a number of ways to find an appropriate proof of address. Here are a few:
Utility bills as proof of address
You can use various utility bills as proof of address, including: gas, electric, water, internet and landline bills. They usually have to have been issued within three months. Also, many institutions don’t accept mobile phone bills as valid proof of address. If these bills are sent to your home, you may well find one in your pile of mail. If you have gone paperless you may be able to request a paper copy online.
Bank statements as proof of address
Your bank statements and credit card statements will, of course, have your address on. If you use these as proof of address, they should be no more than three of four months old. And they must contain transactions within the last 12 months. If you aren’t sent your statements by post, you can go to your online banking page, which will list out all of your statements. From there, you can download a PDF or order a paper version by mail.
Other ways to find your proof of address
You can fill out a change-of-address card at the post office and use the confirmation you get back in the mail as proof of address.
Do you live with family? They can provide proof of address documents with their names on, then you need to provide proof of your relationship with them.
Use your most recent paycheck which you may be handed, mailed, or can find online.
A tax form dated within the past 12 months provides proof of residency.
Any residential contract (leasehold or mortgage) can be used to prove where you live.
Register to vote online and wait for your card in the mail. This is another great option if you've recently moved! When you register to vote online, your new voter registration card gets mailed to you and it will include your full name and address.
Living abroad with WorldRemit’s help
We hope that you’ve found this article helpful. For more insights about life in another country, make sure to check out our blog. You’ll find a selection of articles put together especially for people living and working abroad.
And, if you’re sending money to loved ones back home, we can help. At WorldRemit, our service is fast, secure and reliable. Plus, our low fees will save you money.
So, why not make a money transfer today?
Proof of address: FAQs
What doesn’t count as proof of address?
It’s always a good idea to check with the institution asking for proof of address what documents they will accept. But usually:
your ID is not a proof of address - only a way to verify your identity, even if it contains your address
any document that is too old is unacceptable
Originals, not copies are usually required
Can I open a bank account without proof of address?
Yes, there are some online financial institutions that allow customers to open a bank account without a proof of address - all thanks to technology. Rather than proving your address, they prove that you are who you say you are via face recognition to prevent fraud.
How do I get a bank statement?
It’s simple. If you aren’t sent your statements by post, you can go to your online banking page, which will list out all of your statements. From there, you can download a PDF, or order a paper version by mail.
The contents of this blog post does not constitute legal or financial advice and is provided for general information purposes only. If you require specific legal and / or financial advice you should contact a specialist lawyer or financial advisor. Information true at time of publishing.
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