The Essentials: Everything You Need to Start Your New Life in Belfast

By Ruby Kayleigh Higgins

For students who have just moved to Northern Ireland, especially those who haven’t lived away from home before, starting over can be quite daunting. From phone plans to banking to making new friends, the list goes on and on. Well, don’t fret, we’re here to help!

Bank Account

First, you’ll need a bank account. This is essential for your new life in Belfast. The most common traditional banks in NI are Danske, Ulster Bank, Bank of Ireland, and AIB [1]. However, online ‘neobanks’ like Monzo are growing in popularity, especially among young people [2]. According to The Irish Times, “Northern Ireland customers ranked it number one for personal current accounts, with Bank of Ireland and AIB coming 11th and 12th out of 12 banks in the poll.” [2]

However, it is important to be aware that neobanks such as Monzo and Revolut have, in recent years, been fined millions due to failures in anti-financial crime processes like money laundering [2]. Their reliance on technology and the internet also means that if there are software outages, maintenance issues, or poor connection, you can be prevented from accessing your money [3]. They offer fee-free spending abroad, which is a big draw of their appeal; however, Danske Freedom accounts also offer this while still having a physical branch [4]. The decision on what bank you choose is up to you, however, it is very important to research all of your options thoroughly before making any decisions.

You should be able to fully complete your application online for both traditional and online banks [5]. You’re going to need to be 18+ (in most cases), provide proof of address, and have a valid photo ID (passport, driver’s license, or a valid alternative) [6]. You may also need proof of income, for example through payslips or bank statements. [6].

Phone Plan

Secondly, you are going to need to switch your phone provider to one of Northern Ireland’s 4 main Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) – O2, Vodafone, EE, or 3 [7]. You can also join one of the 60 Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) that have wholesale access agreements with the MNOs, meaning you get the same network access but with a different plan, benefits, and price than those offered by the big 4 [8]. The most common MVNOs are Giffgaff, Sky Mobile, Tesco Mobile, and Lebara [7].

If your phone supports dual SIM, you may be able to get your new NI SIM as an eSIM. According to Vodafone, “An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your device”, meaning that rather than inserting a physical SIM card, you simply download your plan to your device [9]. This means you can have both your home plan and your NI plan active at once, so you’re not on roaming when you return home. As well as this, getting a new plan here means needing a new number (if you don’t have a +44 number), so you will still have all your old contacts. It is important to get a new phone provider when you move to NI, as otherwise you will have to be on roaming for the duration of your stay, which can incur very high phone charges [10]. You will most likely have to buy this in person as networks tend to only sell eSIMs online to current customers. You will need valid photo ID and an NI bank account when you set it up.

GP

Lastly, you’re going to need a new General Practitioner – especially if you didn’t get your Hepatitis B shot before leaving for Belfast. First, find a GP practice near you using the NI Direct website. According to various Queen’s staff, most students tend to register with Queen’s Medical Centre, which you can find to the right of the Student Union when exiting it. If you’re coming from outside the UK, you will need to get an HSCR1 form, which you can pick up from the student finances desk on the 1st floor of the Student Union, or your chosen practice. You will also be given a separate letter specific to your GP practice, which is Queen’s Medical Centre if you get your form from the Student Union. Simply fill out the form and the additional letter and return it to your chosen medical centre.

You will also need to bring your passport, proof of address, and a visa (not applicable for ROI students). As with banking, you can get a proof of address from the front desk of your accommodation, or from the Service Requests section of Queen’s website. If you have a prescription, you will also need a summary of your medical history, including medications from your previous GP.

If you’re stressed, confused, overwhelmed, or just need more guidance, don’t panic! The dedicated team at the Student’s Union is always willing to help. The Student Advice Centre is located on the top floor of the Students Union and is there to help you through your journey. There is also a help desk on the first floor of the Student Union. You are not alone; there is so much support at Queen’s to make your transition to your new life in Belfast easier. 

References 

[1] The Department of Economy, “Mapping NI’s Financial Services Sector”, September 15th 2026, https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/articles/mapping-nis-financial-services-sector 

[2] The Irish Times, “Free banking and edgy banter: Monzo raises the stakes for traditional bank customers”, March 18th 2026 https://www.irishtimes.com/your-money/2026/03/18/free-banking-and-edgy-banter-monzo-raises-the-stakes-for-traditional-bank-customers/ 

[3] Finextra, “What are the Downsides of Neo Banks?”, August 7th 2023 https://www.finextra.com/blogposting/24712/what-are-the-downsides-of-neo-banks 

[4] Danske Bank, “ https://danskebank.co.uk/personal“

[5] PESA, “How to Open a Bank Account in the UK: A Step-By-Step Guide”, August 31st 2026 https://www.pesa.co/blog/how-to-open-a-bank-account-in-the-uk 

[6] HSBC UK, “What do you Need to Open a Current Account?”, September 15th 2026, https://www.hsbc.co.uk/current-accounts/what-do-you-need-to-open-a-current-account/ 

[7] The Department of Economy, “Understanding Mobile Phone Networks”, September 14th 2026, https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/articles/understanding-mobile-phone-networks 

[8] Lexis Nexis, “Mobile Virtual Network Operator Meaning”, September 14th 2026, https://www.lexisnexis.com/en-gb/legal/glossary/mobile-virtual-network-operator 

[9] Vodafone, “What’s an eSIM and How Does it Work?”, September 17th 2026, https://www.vodafone.co.uk/sim-only/esim 

[10] O2, “What is Data Roaming”, August 25th 2026, https://www.o2.co.uk/guides/what-is-data-roaming 

[11] O2, “Activating and Swapping your SIM”, September 17th 2026, https://www.o2.co.uk/help/phones-and-devices/sims-and-numbers/your-sim