How to open a bank account in Spain with just your passport

Opening a bank account in Spain is a relatively straightforward process if you are a citizen or a legal resident. However, if you are living abroad or have just arrived, the requirements can feel a bit like a moving target.

Many banks claim you can open an account using just a passport, but in practice, it’s rarely that simple. Requirements often fluctuate depending on the specific bank and your individual circumstances.

In this guide, we break down what you can realistically expect, when a passport might actually suffice, and which additional documents you should have ready. We’ll also introduce Wise, a digital alternative that lets you manage your money without the usual banking red tape.

Learn more about Wise 🚀

Can you really open a Spanish bank account with just a passport?

The short answer is yes, but with caveats. It largely depends on the provider. A few banks have modernized their systems to allow non-residents to start or complete the application process using a passport.

The most prominent example is Santander’s online non-resident account. It is specifically designed for those living outside of Spain, provided the applicant is over 18 and holds a valid passport.

However, most traditional banks will ask for more than just a passport, especially if:

• You are opening the account in person at a branch.
• You intend to reside in Spain long-term.
• The bank requires extra documentation for compliance and "Know Your Customer" (KYC) checks.
• You qualify as a resident for tax purposes.

For instance, BBVA allows foreigners to open an account with a passport, but they typically require you to finalize the process in a physical branch. They also note that requirements vary depending on whether you are using a NIE (Foreigner Identification Number), TIE (Foreigner Identity Card), or a passport.

What documents might a Spanish bank ask for?

Even if a bank accepts your passport as primary ID, they may still request supporting documentation. Common requirements include:

• A valid passport.
• A Non-Resident Certificate: Some banks require proof of your non-resident status. You can obtain this at a Spanish consulate in your home country or at a police station in Spain by submitting form 790-012 and paying a small fee (currently around €7.31)¹.
• Proof of address: Usually a recent utility bill or bank statement from your home country.
• Proof of income or economic activity: To comply with anti-money laundering laws, banks need to verify the source of your funds. Recent payslips, your latest tax return, or an employment contract are usually sufficient.
• A Spanish phone number: Some banking apps require a local number for SMS verification.
• Video identification or an in-person check: Some digital processes require a video call or a scan of your national ID card to verify your identity.
• Declaration of Economic Activity (DAE): This is a standard form provided by the bank where you state your profession and income source.

Can you open a non-resident bank account online in Spain?

The digital landscape in Spain is changing, but it’s still hit-or-miss for non-residents.

• Santander: Offers an online account for those outside Spain. The process involves video identification via passport, though availability may depend on your country of residence.
• CaixaBank: Provides online accounts for foreign residents, but these typically require a NIE rather than just a passport.
• BBVA: While you can start the process online, passport-based applications often require a final visit to a branch to sign documents.

Ultimately, if you aren't physically in Spain, your options with traditional banks remain somewhat limited.

When are you considered a non-resident in Spain?

While most Spanish banks serve both residents and non-residents, the paperwork, product availability, and fee structures change significantly based on your tax residency.

According to Article 9 of Law 35/2006, you are generally considered a tax resident in Spain if:

1. You spend more than 183 days in Spain during a calendar year.
2. Your primary economic interests or professional activities are based in Spain.

Banks will categorize you based on these criteria, which determines which specific account types you are eligible for.

A simpler online alternative: Wise

If you want to skip the bureaucracy and don't strictly need a traditional Spanish bank, Wise is a powerful alternative. It’s built specifically for expats, frequent travelers, and digital nomads.

With a Wise account, you can manage your money in over 40 currencies. You also get dedicated local account details for 9+ currencies—including Eurozone IBANs, US Dollar account numbers, and British Pound sort codes. This allows you to receive money like a local and avoid expensive international wire fees.

The best part? When you spend or move money between currencies, Wise uses the mid-market exchange rate without hidden markups.

Learn more about Wise 🚀

Wise vs. Traditional Spanish Banks

Note: Wise is a regulated payment institution in the EU, not a traditional bank. Terms and conditions apply.

Understanding the fees for non-resident accounts

Traditional Spanish banks often waive fees for customers who deposit a monthly salary (nómina). However, for non-residents, this is rarely an option, leading to higher costs:

• Account Maintenance²: Expect to pay between €140 and €196 annually, often billed quarterly.
• Sending Money Abroad³: Banks typically charge around 0.7% of the total, with minimum fees between €20 and €35.
• Receiving Money Internally³: Even receiving funds can cost roughly 0.7% (minimum ~€20).
• Debit Card Fees⁴: Annual fees for a basic debit card are usually around $35.
• ATM Withdrawals⁴: Using an out-of-network or international ATM can cost 4.5% per transaction.
• Exchange Rate Markups⁵: Most banks add a hidden margin of 2.5% to 3% on top of the real exchange rate.

Summary: Is a passport enough?

A passport is the first step, but it’s rarely the last. While you can technically open an account with just a passport at certain banks, you should be prepared to provide proof of income and residence status to keep the account active.

If you need a Spanish IBAN quickly and want to avoid high maintenance fees, a digital solution like Wise often provides a smoother, faster, and more transparent experience.

Open your Wise account today

Last reviewed on March 30, 2026.