Preparing documents to prove the origin of funds (Proof of Funds)
In the United Kingdom, the procedure for proving the origin of funds is a key element in many financial, migration and business processes. Are you opening a bank account, buying property, investing or applying for a visa? You will be asked to provide documents confirming the source of your funds.
A properly executed Proof of Funds (PoF) not only certifies the legality of the funds, but also demonstrates the client's financial transparency. Consultant Law Firm provides comprehensive support in preparing documents in accordance with the requirements of British banks, visa officers, notaries and regulators.
Documents to confirm the origin of funds: main types
Before submitting documents, it is important to gather evidence that clearly indicates that the funds were obtained legally, have a documented source, and that the movement of funds is logically justified. We analyse each case individually, but a typical package of proof of funding sources may include:
- Bank statements for the last 3–12 months showing regular income.
- Property purchase and sale agreements confirming the receipt of funds into the account.
- Tax returns from Ukraine or other jurisdictions showing legal income.
- Documents confirming inheritance or gifts (together with notarisation).
- Contracts for the provision of services/freelance work, if the funds were received for work or projects.
- Confirmation of dividend payments or investment income.
- Reports from sole proprietorships or companies, if the source is the client's business activity.
After collecting the documents, our team prepares an official cover letter explaining the structure of income, currency of transactions, duration of receipts, and additional comments for the bank or migration service.
When confirmation of the origin of funds is required
A request for PoF documents may come from a bank, lawyer, real estate agent, notary, visa service or government agency. The most common situations include:
- Opening a bank account in the UK — for personal or business needs.
- Submitting documents for immigration programmes, including investor, start-up or company founder visas.
- Purchasing property in the UK — for residence or investment.
- Investing in British companies, including through Equity or SAFE agreements.
- Establishing a legal entity if start-up capital is required.
- Transferring significant amounts from abroad that are subject to verification in accordance with AML practices.
If the documents are incorrectly or incompletely filled out, this may result in the refusal to open an account, the blocking of funds or the cancellation of the transaction.
Tips for avoiding risks when preparing PoF
Legal and banking practice in the UK is based on the principles of transparency, consistency and full disclosure of information. To avoid mistakes, we recommend that you adhere to the following principles:
- Avoid large cash transactions or transfers without documentary evidence.
- Do not mix personal funds with business funds, especially in the case of investments.
- Keep all documents in advance — even internal contracts, cheques or income statements.
- Consult before the transaction, not after the bank has started the verification process.
- Engage specialists for translation, legalisation and apostille of documents if the source is not from the UK.
These simple but effective steps will save you time and reduce the risk of financial processes being blocked.
Advantages of working with Consultant

Legal accuracy — we prepare documents in accordance with the requirements of AML, HMRC, UKVI, and banks.

Comprehensive support — from gathering evidence to a cover letter with explanations.

Support for international clients — from Ukraine, the EU, and the US.

Fast preparation — even with limited deadlines for submitting documents.
Frequently asked questions about preparing documents to confirm the origin of funds
Question
Do Ukrainian documents need to be translated for a bank in the UK?
Answer
Yes. Most banks require an official translation into English, preferably with an apostille.
Question
Is it possible to provide PoF without a tax return?
Answer
Yes, but then you must provide other documents (e.g. bank statements, contracts, inheritance certificates) that fully confirm the origin of funds.
Question
How long does it take to prepare documents?
Answer
On average, 2 to 5 working days, depending on the number of documents and the language of the originals.
Question
Is cryptocurrency income considered a source of PoF?
Answer
Yes, but only if there is official confirmation of transactions, wallet history and an explanation of the origin of the assets.
ConclusionProof of funds in the UK is more than a formality. It is a mandatory step in the implementation of any financial or immigration plans. Consultant lawyers help clients avoid problems, collect the necessary documents and meet the high standards of British banks and government agencies. Our goal is to make the PoF procedure understandable, fast and safe for you.