The bank’s seventh annual quality of life index suggests that 98% of British expats said access to online and telephone banking is “essential,” with 75% using a banking app.
The survey – which is in conjunction with the Centre for Future studies – also indicates that 86% of expats have a smart phone, and 89% trust the security of online and telephone banking facilities.
Popular services accessed through the mobile banking services include checking account balances (78%) and paying bills (32%).
Despite this, a significant proportion of expats are still engaged with traditional banking methods, such as visiting branches and speaking to call centre agents.
Social media has entered into the range of communication systems used by expats, with one in seven contacting their bank via Twitter, and one in five using Facebook.
"Reflect changing attitudes"
NatWest International Personal Banking (IPB) has said these shifts reflect changing attitudes towards banking, with 68% of expats admitting that they do not consider human contact as important for the majority of banking services.
“We have seen banking for expats alter exponentially by the advent of online banking and mobile banking apps.
“The enthusiasm that expats have shown for this type of engagement with banks, demonstrates the need among this community.”
