In a significant move to attract new customers, Santander UK has launched a compelling new current account switch deal today, offering £200 in free cash alongside a valuable family perk. The bank has explicitly stated that this promotion is for a limited time and may be withdrawn at any moment, urging potential switchers to act quickly.
How to Claim Your £200 Switching Bonus
Both new and existing Santander customers are eligible to pocket the £200 incentive. To qualify, you must switch your current account from an external provider (excluding Santander, cahoot, or Cater Allen) using the Current Account Switch Service (CASS) to one of the following accounts: Santander Everyday, Edge, Edge Up, Edge Explorer, or Private account.
The switch request must be submitted on or after November 10, 2025, and before the offer is withdrawn. You will not be eligible if anyone named on the new account held a Santander current account on January 1, 2025, or has previously received a switch incentive from the bank.
To secure the £200, you must fulfil several conditions within 60 days of initiating the switch:
- Complete a full switch, which involves closing your old external account.
- Deposit at least £1,500 into the new Santander account (this can be via one or multiple payments).
- Set up a minimum of two active household direct debits, such as for council tax, utilities, or broadband.
Once Santander confirms your eligibility, the £200 payment will be made directly into your account within 30 days.
Extra Perk: A Free 12-Month Kids Pass Membership
Beyond the cash incentive, Santander is sweetening the deal for families. Customers who open any Santander savings account or cash ISA will receive a complimentary 12-month Kids Pass membership, which is normally worth £39.99.
This membership offers discounts on a variety of family activities, including days out, cinema trips, restaurants, and holiday activities. To get this freebie, you need to deposit at least £100 into your new savings account or cash ISA within 30 days of opening it. A unique activation code will then be sent via online or mobile banking within 30 days of the deposit.
The Intensifying Battle for Bank Customers
Anthony Warrington, Head of Current Accounts at Santander UK, commented on the timing of the offer, stating, "Christmas is fast approaching, and we know that this time of year can really stretch people's finances, with shopping, social plans and rising household costs all adding up."
This move by Santander is part of a wider trend, as competition between current account providers heats up. Other major banks are also deploying aggressive tactics to lure customers:
- Barclays is offering £200 for a standard account switch or £400 for a Premier Current Account.
- Lloyds is tempting switchers with a £200 cash incentive.
- Nationwide Building Society, NatWest, and First Direct are all offering £175 to switch.
Furthermore, Lloyds has introduced a "refer a friend" scheme, where existing customers can earn £50 for each friend who switches, up to a maximum of £250. The new customer also receives £50, making it a mutually beneficial offer.
With these attractive deals available for a limited time, UK consumers have a prime opportunity to boost their finances simply by switching their bank account.
