International Account FAQs

1. Why should I bank with Lloyds TSB International?

Whether you're looking for an offshore bank account while you're abroad, or just want to hold money outside of your home country, Lloyds TSB International gives you the security you can trust.

When you bank or invest with Lloyds TSB International you enjoy:

• a current account with a Visa debit card in Sterling, US Dollars or Euro
• offices and staff located around the world
• a bank based in a politically and economically stable jurisdiction — so you can enjoy the peace of mind of knowing your money is in safe hands
• the assurance of banking with a bank that's part of the Lloyds Banking Group*

2. Could I benefit by putting my money offshore?

You could benefit from offshore banking if you:

• are planning to move or retire abroad, or are already living in another country.
• have homes or commitments in more than one country.
• live in a country which is politically or economically unstable, and want to protect your assets more effectively.

3. Do I have to pay income tax on income I've earned offshore?

Some countries require residents to declare their income on a worldwide basis.

In certain circumstances the income of an entity which you control may also be taxable. For this reason, many countries have no restrictions on where your business interests, investments or bank accounts are located.

It is your responsibility to ensure that any tax liability in relation to funds deposited is accounted for by you to your appropriate tax authorities.

As an International Account holder, you can get tax advice through our partners.

4. What currencies can I bank in?

Our instant access International Accounts are available in Sterling, US Dollars and Euro.

You can apply for fixed term deposit accounts in a variety of other currencies. For more information, see the treasury savings section.

5. What rates and charges are associated with the International Account?

The International Account requires a minimum deposit of £1,500, US$1,500 or €1,500 (depending on the currency in which your account is held) within 6 weeks of account opening. The monthly fee for an offshore account is just £7.50, $7.50 or €7.50.

You'll need to pay costs to transfer or receive money when abroad. These vary depending on the method of payment. To find out more, see our International Account fees and charges.

6. What are the differences between the Sterling, Euro and US Dollar accounts?

If you choose a Sterling International Account, you can also have a US Dollar and/or Euro account at no extra charge. Similarly, a Dollar account is available with the Euro international account and vice versa.

There are differences in fees and charges for the different currency accounts. To find out more, see our International Account fees and charges.

7. How can I access my money with an International Account?

To give you worldwide access to your money, we'll provide you with a debit card in Sterling, Euro or US Dollars, depending on the account.

US Dollar and Euro Amex charge cards are also available. You can get Sterling credit cards from Lloyds TSB Plc.

We'll send your cheque book within 10 days of your application (Sterling accounts only).

8. Can I access my International Accounts online?

Yes. With Lloyds TSB International 24-hour multicurrency Internet Banking you can:

• carry out banking enquiries such as checking your balance or transferring funds
• access your account at any time of the day, wherever you are in the world

To log on or register for internet banking, go to the Lloyds TSB International homepage.

We also offer 24-hour telephone banking.

9. How can I get help with my online application?

For instructions on applying for an international account, see How to apply.

You can call us for help at any stage during the application process.

• From the UK, call 0800 876 6555
• Outside the UK, call +44 (0) 1624 638000

10. Can I track the progress of my application?

Yes. If you don't hear from us when you expect to, please contact us to check on the progress of your application.

• Call +44 (0) 1624 638000
• Email internationalacctopening@lloydstsb-offshore.com

We'll open your account once we've received and processed your application and supporting documents.

You will receive a welcome letter within 5 working days of your account being opened, as well as your debit card(s) and cheque book within 10 working days.

11. My International Account debit card has been lost or stolen. What should I do?

If your card is lost or stolen, contact the Lloyds team who are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

• From the UK, call 0800 096 9779
• From overseas, call +44 (0) 1702 278270

12. My International Account debit card has been declined, or I have found unrecognised transactions on my statement. What should I do?

Call our 24-hour helpline on 0044 (0) 1539 736636 to speak to an advisor.

13. I'm living abroad and would like to discuss some of the Lloyds TSB International products. Who should I contact?

Lloyds TSB representatives are located worldwide.

• If you're resident in London, Cyprus, Dubai, South Africa, USA, Hong Kong, Shanghai or Europe contact your local office. To find your local office, see our contact details.
• If you are in the UK call 0800 876 6555.
• If you are living elsewhere outside the UK call +44 (0) 1624 638000.