Uksp

Hello,
Does anyone know which bank account is best for non resident lowest or no charges? Thanks

snikpoh

I think all non-resident bank accounts have charges.

Your best bet would be to look at an online account (like the one from BBVA) they are free and MAY be available for non-residents.

Loafing Along

ING Direct do commission-free banking but not sure it is available to non-residents , worth checking online. Otherwise you are stuck with the big ones Santander etc who definitely do charge for the privilege

guesswork

Sabadell do the Expansion acc for non residents Basically free as long as you put 650 euros per month in

tebo53

I have the Expansion account with Sabadell and had to be a resident. I have to deposit €700 per month to enjoy free banking. I don't think this account is available to non-residents.

Steve

guesswork

I’m non resident and have it. They knew this as I did my 2 year non res check at the same time

Eric S

We are non-resident and have the BBVA online account. We pay zero fees.

- Eric S.

Uksp

Did you have to visit in person to open it? Can it be done online? Do you have to have a minimum amount going in each month for it to be free from fees? Thank you

snikpoh

You fill in the application online and need NEVER visit a Branch.

bolton wanderer

We tried to open a online account with BBVA.
They first required a Spanish registered mobile number....No problem, we bought a cheap phone and signed up with "Hits", a Spanish PAYG.
They then required a NIE.... No problem, we had just bought the apartment and had copies of of NIE. However BBVA wouldn't accept scanned copies of the documents and insisted on sending a courier to pick them up.
At this point we abandoned the application.
Good luck if you persevere.

We've remained with Sabadell and the advantage of a branch service became apparent when we came to pay our non-resident tax. Filled in our forms and handed them over in the branch....simples!

Eric S

We opened ours in person. But after that, we do everything online. As far as I know, there is no minimum amount required.

- Eric S.

bolton wanderer

Hi UKsp,

Do please let us know how you get on and the name of bank you finally choose.
So many people ask for advice & then never leave feedback. People may search for similar advice later and any input from you be be really helpful.

Thanks in anticipation.

snikpoh

Try openbank from Santander

bolton wanderer

Account looks good, thanks. ...English version here https://www.openbank.es/en

However, unfortunately for us, we don't have a secure post box to receive the debit card. The communal one was damaged and mail stolen.

It's a real shame they don't allow pickup at a local Santander branch.

Edit.....Just seen this in the FAQ's under requirements "You must be of legal age, reside in Spain and have a valid identification document (DNI or NIE)." Does this mean the account is for residents only?