How to open a bank account in Spain

Whether you’re living in Spain or just planning a stay for a few months, having local account details makes everyday life much easier.

With an account that provides Euro details, you can pay rent and utility bills via direct debit, use a debit card for shopping, and manage your finances online. If you’re working in Spain, your employer can also deposit your salary directly into your account, simplifying your monthly budget.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics: how to open a bank account in Spain, the documents required, the fees you should expect, the difference between resident and non-resident accounts, and which providers are worth considering.

We’ll also look at the Wise multi-currency account, which provides you with Euro account details alongside details for several other major currencies.

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Should I open a resident or non-resident account in Spain?

Spanish bank accounts are available to both residents and non-residents.

• Resident account: If you plan to stay in Spain long-term and have applied (or intend to apply) for a residency permit, this is your best bet. These accounts are generally more flexible and often come with lower fees.
• Non-resident account: If your stay is short-term or you only need an account for specific transactions, you should opt for this. These can usually be opened with just a passport.

Regardless of which you choose first, you can always switch account types once you obtain Spanish residency. The process is straightforward: simply book an appointment at your local branch and bring the necessary documentation.

What are the fees for Spanish bank accounts?

Spanish banks are known for charging a variety of fees. Terms vary significantly between providers, so it’s worth comparing your options before signing up. You can often secure discounts or fee waivers if you deposit a regular salary or pension, if you’re under 30, or if you meet specific criteria set by the bank.

Here is a breakdown of the most common fees charged by Spanish banks ¹ ² ³ ⁴ ⁵:

• Account opening: Usually free in Spain.
• Maintenance: For non-resident accounts, this typically ranges between €140 and €160 per year. For resident accounts, maintenance is often free, especially with online-only accounts.
• Debit card fees: Usually between €35 and €50 per year, though many banks offer the first card for free.
• ATM withdrawals in Spain: Free at your own bank’s ATMs. Using other banks' ATMs will likely incur a fee.
• ATM withdrawals abroad: Usually around 4.5% (with a minimum charge of €3.50), plus any fees charged by the ATM provider.
• Card payments abroad: Purchases made outside the EU typically incur a fee of around 3%.
• Transfers within the EU: Many Spanish banks offer free SEPA transfers (Euro-to-Euro) online. However, some may charge up to €6, particularly for transfers initiated in a physical branch.
• International transfers (Non-EU): Approximately 0.7% of the total, with a minimum of around €20, plus SWIFT fees ranging from €20 to €25.
• Receiving international transfers: Roughly 0.5% (minimum €20), plus SWIFT fees of €20–€25.
• Exchange rate markups: When currency conversion is involved, Spanish banks typically use their own exchange rates rather than the mid-market rate. These markups are often around 3%.

Opening a bank account in Spain as a non-resident

To open a non-resident account, you will generally need:

• A valid, unexpired passport or national ID (for EU citizens).
• Proof of address: A recent bank statement or utility bill (issued within the last 3 months).
• Proof of income: A recent payslip, tax return, or government document confirming your status.
• A non-resident certificate: Issued by a consular office, police station, or immigration office (Oficina de Extranjería) in Spain.

Note that some banks may require official translations of your documents. Depending on your location, finding a certified translator before you travel could save you significant time.

Banks that offer non-resident accounts in Spain

While requirements vary by branch, the following banks are popular choices for non-residents:

• Santander: One of Spain’s largest banks. They offer the "Cuenta Santander" to non-residents.
• CaixaBank: Their "HolaBank" service is designed specifically for non-residents and expats.
• BBVA: Non-residents can open a "Cuenta Nómina Sin Comisiones" (No-Fee Salary Account) at most branches.
• Sabadell: Offers the "Key Account" for non-residents, which includes a free translation service for banking matters.

The Non-resident Certificate

Some banks require a Certificado de No Residente to confirm you do not live in Spain. You can obtain this at a Spanish consulate abroad or at an immigration office/police station once you arrive. To apply, you must complete Form 790-012, present your passport, and pay a fee of €7.31.

Opening a bank account in Spain as a resident

If you are a resident, you will typically need:

• A valid, unexpired passport or national ID (EU citizens).
• Proof of Spanish address: A rental agreement, utility bill, or bank statement.
• Your NIE number: The Número de Identidad de Extranjero is essential for non-Spanish citizens.
• Proof of employment: A work contract, student ID, or unemployment documentation.

Can I open a Spanish bank account online?

Most Spanish banks allow residents to open accounts online. However, for non-residents, opening an account online is rarely an option. You will usually need to visit a branch in person.

If you need a faster solution that works regardless of your residency status, Wise is a great alternative. The Wise multi-currency account can be opened 100% online in minutes using your phone or computer and a valid ID.

What is the best bank to open an account in Spain?

There's no single “best” Spanish bank – it all depends entirely on your situation. Think about how long you'll be in Spain, how often you'll make international transfers, and whether you need a card for overseas spending. Then compare the features of each option.
Here's a quick look at some of the most popular Spanish bank accounts for non-residents:

Discover the Wise account in Spain

If you want to skip the heavy paperwork of traditional Spanish banks, consider the Wise multi-currency account. It’s free to open, has no monthly maintenance fees, and the debit card comes without an annual subscription charge.

Please note: Wise is a payment institution, not a bank. In Spain, Wise offers a multi-currency account that allows you to manage your money efficiently across borders.

• Hold 40+ currencies: Manage Euros, US Dollars, British Pounds, and more in one place.
• Mid-market exchange rate: When you convert money or withdraw cash abroad, you get the mid-market rate—no hidden markups.
• Local account details: Get local details for 8+ currencies (including EUR) to receive payments like a local.
• ATM Withdrawals: Withdraw up to €200 per month for free at ATMs. Note: While Wise does not charge a fee for these withdrawals, some third-party ATM operators may apply their own charges.

Open a Wise account in Spain and start saving

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Last checked on April 23, 2026.