If you are going to stay in Spain for longer than six months, you will probably need a bank account. In this article we will tell you about  opening a bank account in Spain. You should know that foreigners can have two types of bank accounts, one for residents and another one for non-residents.

To open a bank account if you are non-residentyou need to provide a photo identification document valid in your country, such as a passport or an ID card. Another point to keep in mind is that 15 days after opening the bank account, you must justify your status of non-resident providing a valid non-resident certificate (certificado de no residencia) You can apply for this and collect it at your nearest National Police station.

Thereafter, every two years the bank will perform a check on your non-resident status. In case that you do become a Spanish resident after opening the account, you must notify your residency situation to the bank and give them a copy of your residence card.

Requirements for opening a bank account in Spain

• You must be over 18 years old.
• Official document with photographic proof of identity, such a National Identity Card or a passport from your country of origin.
• To avoid money-laundering, the banks require proof of occupation or status, such as an employment contract, pension or disability payment confirmation, letter from lawyer, student card, etc.
• Confirmation of address trough utility bill or council tax bill (issued within the last three months)
• Residents in Spain also need to produce their Foreigner Identification Number and certificate (NIE or Número de Identificación de Extranjeros)
• Finally, its necessary to bear in mind that, if at the time of opening a bank account in Spain you make the initial deposit in foreign currency, your foreign currency will be converted into Euros. This measure is to avoid any potential problems later.

If you want more information about how to open a bank account in Spain, please contact us and we will be delighted to help you.