Staying current with UK banks This is certainly true for savings, but when it comes to current accounts many expats have accounts with locally owned banks. However, there are a number of current accounts offered to UK expatriates from the main high street banks and other, less-known names. Most offer a choice of being denominated in sterling, dollars or euros or a mixture. And just as with onshore banking, you can choose from simple accounts or "packaged" deals where you get a range of extras. New applicants for a Lloyds TSB International's Premier International account earn 4 per cent on balances between £10,000 and £25,000 for that period, which is an annual equivalent rate of 1 per cent. You need a minimum income of £50,000 or £25,000 on deposit. There are no fees as long as you maintain a balance of at least £2,500 (or €2,500 or $3,500) otherwise it is £20 (€20/$30) a month. If your account is denominated in sterling, you get free worldwide family travel insurance (unless you live in the US or Canada). There is also a concierge service and other offers. HSBC's offshore bank account has a Visa debit card in sterling or dollars. You need a minimum balance of £5,000 in the account (or $10,000/€10,000). The Jersey-based accounts are offered on two levels - HSBC Advance or Premier. For Advance, you have to have at least £25,000 across HSBC offshore to get free banking - otherwise it's £15 a month. For Premier, you must have £60,000 with the bank or you'll pay £35 a month. With NatWest Offshore there's the no-frills Current Plus account or for those wanting extras there is Advantage International or Advantage Cheque. Advantage International costs £150 a year but you can have multi currencies in the account as well as many extras such as free travel insurance, concierge services and discounts. Advantage Cheque is sterling only but comes with a chequebook. It costs £12 a month and also has discounts, travel insurance and discounts. With effect from last week all new RBS International accounts are being opened under the NatWest banner. Barclays International offers different levels of service for expats. The Relationship Manager Service Account demands a balance of £50,000 or more with no monthly fee and a dedicated relationship manager. Its iBank Plus account is ideal for those making frequent international payments and needs a minimum balance of £10,000 or more across Barclays international account. The iBank account, with a £5 monthly fee, demands a minimum balance of £5,000, held in sterling, euros or dollars.