formerlondoner

Thanks, that is good to know. I just had a contact elsewhere mention that they aren't as geared up to deal with fraud issues as a bank would and this could result in delays. I won't worry so much about it anymore but I'm glad I've had a workaround with the UK HSBC alternative to Barclays. The other thing with Wise is that it is taking me two business days for transfers out which in this day and age is an eternity.

As an update to this thread, I found out I could set up a new British HSBC account by applying at https://www.hsbc.com.au/international/overseas-account-opening/ and providing my Australian details. Some remote authentication methods ensued but it was all relatively straightforward. It may not be as fully featured as my old account but it will do the job. I had set up a Wise account prior to this but I learned that, as has been posted here, they don't have the same fraud protections as other banks.

If I am transferring money to a Wise account from my UK account will I pay a fee? Someone said it won't cost money to go from GBP to GBP but does Wise include a UK sort code?

Hi all, This is my first post here. I came here also looking for advice as I also got a rude text from Barclays saying they had to close my account, which I've had for more than 20 years. As I get a regular GBP allowance into it and also use my debit card to pay for some UK based services fee-free, I need a new account with a UK sort code, and I would also need to transfer the GBP I already have in the account straight into GBP without incurring any exchange fees. Does anyone know if Wise does that? There are international options with some very high minimum requirements which I can't meet. But do you think any would allow some flexibility if contacted directly? Also - I've already sent Barclays my Australian tax details, so they aren't closing it because of that. It's just the 'too expensive/complicated basket' for them I think. I always declare my allowance to the ATO.