As you start getting used to daily Spanish life, you’ll naturally want to open a bank account in Spain.
After all, the cashiers and stores keep getting confused when using your card; it’s just not like the Spanish ones!
Skip the confusion and open a bank account in Spain. The process of opening a bank account in Spain is simple and straightforward!
Follow our guide to see if opening a Spanish bank account is right for you and how to do it.
Why Do I Need to Open a Bank Account in Spain?
Are you unsure if you need a Spanish bank account?
If you’re studying in Spain for more than three months, using a Spanish bank will make a lot of your transactions easier.
If you want to find a job in Spain (and work on a student visa), it’s even better to have a Spanish bank account.
That way, you can keep all your earnings in Spain. Having a bank account in Spain also helps you avoid international transfer fees and out-of-network ATM withdrawal fees.
Most Spanish banks also have online banking, so it’s easy to keep track of your euros.
Another reason to open a bank account in Spain is to use the banking app Bizum.
It’s an easy way to send and receive money quickly without having to do a bank transfer. L
ots of Spanish students and 20-somethings use this app to pay each other, so you’ll fit right into Spanish culture! C
hecking out the best tapas bars in Barcelona with friends becomes worry-free when you can use Bizum to pay together.
How to Open a Bank Account in Spain
First thing’s first: you need to find the right Spanish bank for students!
You can find the best banks for expats and students in Spain here.
When you’re looking for the right bank for you, check which banks and ATMS are closest to you.
Some banks charge a fee to withdraw money using a different bank, so note this during your research.
Remember to note the available languages at your bank as well, as some banks only have service in Spanish.
Once you choose the bank for you, you’re going to need to prepare a few documents.
While online banks like N26 and Revolut only require a passport or national ID to sign up, most Spanish banks will ask to see your NIE.
Depending on the type of bank account you want to open, you may also need to show a proof of employment.
This is needed for accounts that have a minimum monthly deposit.
If you want to open a bank account in Spain, you will also need to show proof of address such as a utility bill, empadronamiento, or rental contract.
Gather up your documents, practice your Spanish banking vocabulary, and set up your Spanish bank account today!
