How to Buy Tesla Shares in the UK - A Step-by-Step Guide
Quick Answer: To Buy Tesla Shares, You’ll Need to…
Open an account with a UK-regulated broker
Verify your identity with ID and address documents
Deposit GBP into your account
Search for Tesla (TSLA) on NASDAQ
Place a buy order and confirm your investment
What is Tesla?
Overview of Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ: TSLA)
Tesla is a US-based electric vehicle and clean energy company listed on NASDAQ under ticker TSLA. Founded by Elon Musk and others, Tesla designs EVs, battery storage, and solar products. It is one of the most traded growth stocks worldwide, attracting global retail investors.
Is Tesla Stock a Good Investment in 2025?
Tesla’s 2025 outlook reflects strong EV demand, energy storage expansion, and software revenues. Over the past five years, Tesla’s share price has risen by more than 130%, highlighting long-term growth potential. However, volatility and global competition remain key risks (Yahoo Finance).
What Are the Risks of Buying Tesla Shares?
Tesla shares remain volatile, influenced by earnings results, market sentiment, and macroeconomic conditions. Risks include competition, supply chain challenges, and reliance on future growth projections. UK investors should consider currency risk when buying US-listed shares. Diversification is recommended, even if Tesla’s long-term growth story remains compelling.
How to Buy Tesla Shares in the UK (Step-by-Step)
Step 1. Choose a UK-Regulated Stockbroker or Trading Platform
To buy Tesla shares, select a broker regulated by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority. Popular options include eToro, XTB, and IG, all offering access to NASDAQ-listed shares. Look for low commissions, competitive FX fees, fractional share availability, and strong investor protections when choosing.
How do I know the broker is FCA-regulated?
Check the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) register for your chosen broker’s license details. FCA regulation ensures funds are safeguarded, complaints can be escalated, and trading practices meet UK standards. Trusted platforms like eToro, XTB, and IG clearly state FCA authorisation on their official websites.
Which stock trading platforms are popular in the UK?
UK investors often choose eToro, XTB, and IG due to accessible platforms, competitive pricing, and US stock access. eToro offers fractional shares, XTB is known for low commission structures, and IG appeals to experienced traders with extensive market research tools and flexible trading accounts.
For more on this check out our list of The Best Investment Platforms in the UK.
| Broker | US Share Commission | FX Fee | Trustpilot Score (2025) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| eToro | Commission-free | ~0.75% | 4.2 | Good for beginners and fractional shares |
| XTB | £0 | ~0.5% | 4.0 | Low-cost structure but more CFD-focused |
| IG | £10 (if <3 trades/month) | 0.5%-0.7% | 4.0 | Strong research tools and FCA-regulated |
Step 2. Create and Verify Your Brokerage Account
Open an account online or via app and complete verification. Provide a valid photo ID and proof of address, such as a utility bill or bank statement. Verification is normally processed within 24–48 hours, allowing you to begin funding your account and trading Tesla shares.
Step 3. Deposit Funds Into Your Account
Deposit GBP using methods like bank transfer, debit card, or e-wallet. Processing times vary, with bank transfers slower but often fee-free. Check minimum deposit requirements and watch for foreign exchange conversion charges, as Tesla trades in US dollars, requiring GBP-to-USD conversion when buying shares.
What payment methods can I use?
Most UK brokers accept debit cards, bank transfers, and sometimes e-wallets. Bank transfers may take longer but are cost-effective. Debit cards enable instant funding but may incur small fees. Always confirm accepted payment methods in advance and ensure you choose the option best aligned with your needs.
Are there fees for depositing GBP?
Deposits are often free, though fees depend on the broker and method. Bank transfers usually avoid costs, while card or wallet payments may incur small charges. Always review the broker’s fee schedule to avoid unexpected deductions before funding your account for Tesla stock purchases.
Step 4. Buy Tesla Shares (TSLA)
Search for Tesla (TSLA) within your broker’s platform. Decide whether to invest by share count or GBP value. Choose a market order for immediate purchase or a limit order to target a price. Confirm the trade and review the transaction summary to complete your Tesla investment.
How do I place a buy order for TSLA?
Log in, search for “Tesla” or “TSLA,” and select buy. Enter the number of shares or investment amount in GBP. Select market or limit order depending on your strategy. Review the details and confirm. The broker executes the order and updates your portfolio accordingly.
How can I review and confirm my purchase?
After execution, your broker provides confirmation showing trade price and fees. Check account balances or open positions to verify ownership. Many trading platforms also send email confirmations. Always confirm details match your intended trade, ensuring your Tesla purchase is properly recorded and aligned with your order.
Step 5. Store or Manage Your Tesla Investment
Your Tesla shares are held in a nominee account by the broker. Fractional shares remain custodied by the platform. Investors can track holdings, reinvest through recurring purchases, or sell easily. Regularly reviewing your portfolio ensures your Tesla investment aligns with your long-term financial objectives.
Should I keep shares in my broker account or transfer to a share dealing account?
Most UK investors leave shares in their broker account. Transfers are rarely necessary and can involve fees. Brokers safeguard shares through nominee structures. Unless advanced arrangements or external custody are required, keeping Tesla shares within your regulated broker account is secure and efficient.
Can I reinvest dividends or set up recurring investments?
Tesla does not currently pay dividends. However, many brokers allow recurring purchases, enabling investors to grow positions gradually. Automated investment features help average entry prices and encourage disciplined investing. For Tesla, the focus remains capital growth, making recurring purchases more relevant than dividend reinvestment.
Final Thoughts: Is Buying Tesla Shares Right for You?
Buying Tesla stock may suit growth-focused investors seeking exposure to electric vehicles and clean energy. However, its volatility and lack of dividends make it unsuitable for income investors. Assess your risk tolerance, portfolio mix, and long-term financial goals before investing.
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FAQs
Can I buy Tesla through a fund?
Yes, you can invest in Tesla indirectly through funds or ETFs that hold TSLA shares. Popular options include the ARK Innovation ETF and S&P 500 index funds, where Tesla is a major component. This approach offers diversification alongside exposure to Tesla.
What is the difference in buying TESLA stock vs shares?
In the UK, “shares” usually describe ownership in a specific company, such as Tesla. “Stock” is a broader American term referring to ownership in one or more companies. Practically, both terms mean equity ownership, and brokers use them interchangeably when offering investments.
What is the easiest way to buy Tesla shares in the UK?
The easiest way to buy Tesla shares in the UK is through a regulated broker like eToro, IG, or Hargreaves Lansdown. These platforms are beginner-friendly, FCA-regulated, and allow you to buy Tesla shares directly in GBP.
Is Tesla a good stock for long-term investment?
Tesla is considered a growth stock with potential for long-term gains due to its leadership in the EV and renewable energy markets. However, it’s also volatile, so ensure you understand the risks before investing.
Can I buy Tesla shares in an ISA or SIPP?
Yes, brokers like Hargreaves Lansdown and IG allow you to buy Tesla shares within a stocks and shares ISA (Individual Savings Account) or SIPP (Self-Invested Personal Pension) for tax-efficient investing.
