How to Open a Bank Account in Spain as a Foreigner: Step-by-Step Guide for EU and Non-EU Citizens
Hi! Moving to Spain or just visiting?
You’ll need a local bank account to pay rent, receive salary, or avoid high fees.
I’ll show you how to open one easily, whether you’re from the EU, USA, Latin America, or anywhere else.
Bring your passport + NIE (or proof of address), visit a bank like Santander or BBVA, fill a form, and get your account in 1–2 days.
No NIE yet? Some online banks (N26, Revolut) let you start without it.
Full Guide: Open a Spanish Bank Account (Step-by-Step for Everyone)
Works for EU citizens (Germany, France, Italy…) and non-EU (USA, Argentina, China…). I’ll cover traditional banks, online banks, and what documents you really need.
1. Understand the Types of Accounts
| Type | Best for | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Account | Living in Spain >3 months | Full services, debit card, IBAN |
| Non-Resident Account | Tourists, short stays | Limited, higher fees |
| Online Bank | Digital nomads | App-only, free, instant |
Pro tip: Start with online banks (N26, Revolut, Wise) — no branch visit needed.
2. Get Your Documents Ready (EU vs Non-EU)
| Document | EU Citizens | Non-EU Citizens |
|---|---|---|
| Passport or ID | Yes | Yes |
| NIE Number | Yes (for residents) | Yes |
| Proof of Address | Utility bill, rental contract, empadronamiento | Same + visa/residence permit |
| Proof of Income | Sometimes (job contract) | Often required |
| Phone Number | Spanish SIM | Spanish or international |
No NIE yet? Use Revolut or N26 — they accept passport only.
3. Choose Your Bank
| Bank | Best for | Fees | App |
|---|---|---|---|
| Santander | Branches everywhere | €0–€15/month | Good |
| BBVA | Free for <30 years | €0 if direct deposit | Excellent |
| CaixaBank | Expats in Catalonia | €12/quarter | OK |
| N26 | Online, English support | €0 | Best |
| Revolut | Crypto, multi-currency | €0 | Top |
| Wise | Transfers | €0 | Great |
Pro tip: BBVA Young Account = free for under 30, no NIE needed at first.
4. Open the Account (Step-by-Step)
Option A: Traditional Bank (Santander, BBVA, etc.)
- Book appointment → Call or use bank app (“cita previa”).
- Visit branch with all documents.
- Fill form (they help in English/Spanish).
- Sign contract → get debit card (same day or mailed).
- Activate online banking → download app, set PIN.
Time: 1–3 days
Cost: €0–€100
Option B: Online Bank (N26, Revolut)
- Download app (App Store / Google Play).
- Sign up with email + phone.
- Verify identity → selfie + passport photo.
- Add address (Spain or your country).
- Get virtual card instantly → physical card in 5–7 days.
Time: 10 minutes
Cost: €0
5. Fund Your Account
- Transfer from abroad → Use Wise (low fees, real exchange rate).
- Cash deposit → Only at branch ATMs (some free).
- Direct deposit → Give IBAN to employer.
Pro tip: Avoid Western Union — fees up to 10%!
6. Use Your Account Daily
- Pay bills → Bizum (like Venmo), SEPA transfers.
- Withdraw cash → Free at bank ATMs.
- Online shopping → Use virtual card.
- Taxes → Banks report to Hacienda (automatic).
7. Common Problems & Fixes
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| “Need NIE first” | Use N26 or Revolut |
| No proof of address | Get empadronamiento at town hall |
| High fees | Switch to BBVA Free or ING |
| Language barrier | Ask for English-speaking staff or use Google Translate |
Final Tips for Success
- Start online → N26/Revolut → switch to local bank later.
- Compare fees → Use HelpMyCash.com (Spanish bank comparator).
- Keep €500 buffer → Avoid monthly fees.
- Use Bizum → Send money to friends instantly.
- Close old accounts → Avoid double fees.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account without NIE?
Answer: Yes! N26, Revolut, Wise accept only passport.
Do I need to be resident in Spain?
Answer: No for online banks. Yes for full resident accounts.
Are there English-speaking banks?
Answer: BBVA, Santander, N26 have English apps/staff.
How long does it take?
Answer: 10 minutes online, 1–3 days in branch.
Can I open a joint account?
Answer: Yes — bring both passports + NIEs.
What if I’m under 18?
Answer: Need parent/guardian + birth certificate.
Best bank for expats?
Answer: N26 (English, free, fast) or BBVA (branches + app).
