Other banks do not require selfies, so there are other options
But they are verifying customers in person with account creation, this is an online bank
This is a 100% online bank account you typically open from an app. The typical clientele will just use the "selfie" auth.
Most banks now require selfies, try shopping around. KYC requirements get tightened all the time.
At least one traditional UK bank requires a selfie and a passport scan.