You can add a new account from the Wallet at any time. The available account types are GIA, ISA, JISA, and Crypto. CFD and spread betting accounts are coming soon to the new IG app.
How do I open a new account?
Tap Wallet from the bottom navigation bar.
Scroll down and tap Unlock more accounts.
Swipe through the account type cards to browse and compare available accounts.
Tap the relevant button for the account you want and complete the application.
Agree to the terms and conditions.
Your account is ready. From here you can add money or explore the app.
How long does it take to open each account type?
The time estimate shown in the app for each account type is:
GIA — 1–2 min
ISA — 1–2 min
JISA — 3–5 min
Crypto — 5–10 min
What information is shown for each account type?
When you tap an account type card, you can see a detailed comparison including:
What you can trade (for example: Buy Stocks, ETFs, Complex ETFs, Investment Trusts)
What you own (for example: Own real shares and collect dividends)
Investment horizon (for example: Build wealth steadily over years)
Risk level (for example: Medium risk — steady market movements)
Deposits (for example: Flexible deposits and withdrawals / £20,000 annual allowance)
Contribution limits (for example: Unlimited / £20,000 annually / £9,000 annually)
Withdrawals (for example: Anytime / When child is 18 years old)
Tax treatment (for example: £500 dividend tax allowance annually / 100% tax-free)
Fees (links to charges and fees pages)
Are there any additional steps for certain account types?
Yes. Some account types require additional steps beyond the standard application:
Crypto — additional steps include an investor qualification check, terms and conditions, a knowledge quiz, and a mandatory 24-hour cooling-off period required by UK Financial Promotions regulations. You can explore crypto assets during the cooling-off period but cannot trade until it ends.
JISA — you must be the child's parent or legal guardian. The child must be 13 or under. JISAs cannot be opened for children who are not UK residents or for US citizen children. Manual verification for JISA can take up to 72 hours.
What happens if I already have an account of that type?
You can hold more than one GIA, ISA, or JISA. For Crypto, only one account is permitted.
What if my application is unsuccessful?
If we are unable to open an account for you, you will see one of the following:
You already have another application in progress. Please complete that first.
You have reached the maximum number of accounts for this product type.
Unfortunately we cannot unlock this product for you right now. Please contact support.
We couldn't verify your details. Our team can help explain your options. — tap Contact us to reach us on WhatsApp.
What is the identity verification process?
When you apply for a new account, IG verifies your identity automatically. There are several possible outcomes:
Automatic verification — completed instantly.
Quick document check (approx. 2 min) — you may be asked to upload a document.
Additional documents required — you will be prompted to upload further documents.
Manual review — our team reviews your details. This can take up to 72 hours for JISA applications.
We couldn't verify your details — our team will explain your options.
Frequently asked questions
Can I have multiple accounts under one profile?
Can I have multiple accounts under one profile?
Yes. You can hold more than one GIA, ISA, or JISA under the same profile. For Crypto, only one account is permitted.
How long does it take to open a new account?
How long does it take to open a new account?
GIA and ISA accounts take 1–2 minutes. JISA accounts take 3–5 minutes. Crypto accounts take 5–10 minutes. CFD and spread betting accounts are coming soon to the new IG app.
What are the steps to open a crypto account?
What are the steps to open a crypto account?
Opening a Crypto account involves an investor qualification check, agreeing to terms and conditions, completing a knowledge quiz, and a mandatory 24-hour cooling-off period required by UK Financial Promotions regulations. You can explore crypto assets during the cooling-off period but cannot trade until it ends.
Why can't I open a JISA for my child?
Why can't I open a JISA for my child?
JISAs can only be opened by the child's parent or legal guardian, for children aged 13 or under. JISAs cannot be opened for children who are not UK residents or for US citizen children. If your application is unsuccessful, contact us via Chat or WhatsApp for help.
What happens if my application is declined?
What happens if my application is declined?
If we are unable to open an account for you, you will see an on-screen message explaining the reason. If you see 'We couldn't verify your details', tap Contact us and our team will explain your options.
Why do I have to wait 24 hours to trade crypto?
Why do I have to wait 24 hours to trade crypto?
A 24-hour cooling-off period is required by UK Financial Promotions regulations before you can begin trading crypto. You can explore crypto assets during this time but cannot trade until the period ends.
