Going to be working abroad - who should get an international bank account?

There are many reasons why people may want to consider working abroad. Perhaps the company you work for is attempting to tap into a new market or you've been headhunted by a business that is based overseas.

Maybe you've always dreamed of living abroad and have finally decided to take the plunge and do it. No matter what your reason for working abroad is, you will find - as is the case back home - that you will need to keep on top of your finances - and this is where Lloyds TSB International's range of international bank accounts can come in handy.

What are the benefits of having an international bank account while living abroad?

Living and working abroad can take some time to get used to, it is rather different than going on holiday, so being able to keep a firm grip on your finances will be particularly important. While there is the option of opening up a bank account once you've arrived in your country of residence, you may find applying for the Lloyds TSB Premier International Account before you leave helps you to keep on top of your money from the moment you arrive.

Internet and telephone banking is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week with the international bank account, while the Visa debit card that comes with it can be used to pay for goods and services around the world. And as you can select the currency of your account - be it sterling, euro or US dollar - you do not have to attempt to convert currencies in your head in order to get an idea of exactly how much money you are shelling out every time you attempt to pay for something.

Worldwide family travel insurance is another feature of the Premier international account. This can be useful should you need to travel for business purposes or if you and your family are going away on holiday or flying back home for a short period. While living abroad you may want to get a foot on the property ladder and buy your own house.

By taking out a Premier International Account, you can benefit from a 50 per cent discount on arrangement fees attached to our international mortgage service. However, you will need to have at least £100,000 in your international bank account in order to benefit from this.

What do I need to do to open an international bank account?

If you're thinking of taking up a job that is located overseas, you may want to consider the range of international bank accounts that are on offer to those living and working abroad. All existing customers of the Lloyds Banking Group can apply for a Premier International Account.

But if you've never banked with them before do not worry, you may still be able to take advantage of our financial products while working abroad. In order to do so, you will need to have £25,000 or more to invest with us within the first three months of opening an account or have a gross annual income of at least £50,000.

However, if you have the equivalent of these sums of money in other currencies you can still take out the product, which may be useful if you are already living abroad. Whether you've been working abroad for some time due to your job or are thinking of doing this for the very first time, the range of international bank products and services available on the market can help you stay on top of your finances, wherever in the world you are. To find out more, visit Lloyds TSB International.