Barclays to unveil global expat scheme

Barclays is targeting the 14 million Britons who live and work abroad by launching a one-stop shop global banking service, which will give them 24-hour access to their accounts anywhere in the world.

The scheme, called Global Solutions, will enable expat customers to carry out everyday banking services, from opening accounts and checking balances to paying bills and transferring cash, by telephone or online.

Barclays claims it is the first international banking scheme to offer a multi-currency service.

It will, for instance, enable someone working in the Middle East to view all their accounts – even those held offshore – on a single screen, so that they can transfer money, no matter what currency, between them.

Global Solutions also offers a wide range of lifestyle-related services such as emergency assistance, property management and tax planning.

The scheme was tested in the bank’s London international office in Knightsbridge and adopted by 95 per cent of customers.

Barclays director of international personal banking Bob Bashford says: “This package takes the hassle out of managing personal finances in different currencies and across time-zones.

“It will put globetrotters at ease with their finances,” he adds.

Marketing strategy for the scheme is still being finalised, although it will initially be promoted in-store and through direct mailings.

A Barclays spokeswoman says the bank has not ruled out using TV advertising to push the service.