Sorting out your banking is one of the first practical steps to settling into life in Spain. While it isn’t a legal requirement, having a Spanish bank account makes day-to-day life smoother, especially when paying bills, transferring money or arranging a mortgage.
Although many banks in Spain have English-speaking staff, it’s helpful to understand the paperwork involved and the fees you might face when setting up your account. With that in mind, here’s what you need to know to open a bank account in Spain.
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Contents
- Why open a Spanish bank account?
- What documents do you need?
- Resident and non-resident accounts
- Bank fees and money transfers
- FAQs
Why open a Spanish bank account?
It isn’t compulsory to open a Spanish account, but it makes managing your finances easier. Utility companies, internet providers and local tax authorities often prefer payments from a domestic bank. In addition, some UK banks no longer allow non-residents to have accounts. If you’re buying a property, a Spanish account also helps you pay notary fees, property taxes and ongoing community charges more easily.
What documents do you need?
Banks in Spain follow strict anti-money laundering regulations, so you’ll need to provide several documents. These usually include:
| Requirement | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Passport | Valid proof of identity | Must be in date |
| Proof of address | Recent utility bill or rental contract | UK or Spanish address usually accepted |
| Proof of employment status | Employment contract, student card or pension certificate | Unemployed applicants may need official documents |
| NIE certificate | Foreigners’ identification number | Essential for most financial and legal matters |
Documents not in Spanish will usually need an official translation by a traductor jurado and may also require legalisation with an Apostille stamp.
Resident and non-resident accounts
Banks in Spain offer two main account types. A resident account is for those living permanently in Spain and usually has lower fees. A non-resident account is for those spending part of the year in Spain or not officially resident. These can have higher charges, but they are easier to open if you haven’t yet relocated full-time.
Bank fees and money transfers
Spanish banks often charge monthly maintenance fees, card fees and transfer costs. These can vary widely, so it’s worth comparing different banks. To avoid losing money on exchange rates when transferring funds from the UK, use a specialist currency provider such as Smart Currency Exchange rather than relying on your bank’s rates.
FAQs
What is the best bank account for non-resident in Spain?
The best option depends on your circumstances. Popular choices for non-residents include large banks such as Santander, Caixabank and Sabadell, which often have English-speaking staff. Compare monthly fees, online banking services and branch availability before deciding.
Do I need an address to open a bank account in Spain?
Yes, banks will ask for proof of address, but this can usually be either a UK or Spanish address if you are a non-resident. A rental agreement, utility bill or council tax statement is usually accepted.
Can I open a Spanish bank account without an NIE number?
Most banks require an NIE certificate, even for non-resident accounts. Some may allow you to open an account temporarily without one, but you’ll usually need to provide it within a set timeframe. Online banks often don’t require an NIE and are popular among expats and digital nomads.
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