Your landlord wants rent by bank transfer. Your employer needs a Spanish account. At some point, every expat in Spain needs a local bank account. The process is more straightforward than most people expect.

Do You Need a NIE to Open a Bank Account?

Technically, no. Some banks will open an account with only your passport. But most high street banks will ask for a NIE. If you do not have one yet, online banks are your best stopgap.

Types of Bank Accounts

Resident Account

Standard account for residents. Needs NIE/TIE + empadronamiento. Full banking access.

Non-Resident Account

For non-residents. Easier with just a passport, but with more limitations and higher fees.

Required Documents for a Resident Account

• Valid passport or national ID
• NIE or TIE card
• Empadronamiento certificate
• Proof of income (some banks ask, some do not)

Which Banks Work Best for Expats?

• Santander — widely available, English-speaking staff in larger branches
• BBVA — excellent app, some English support
• N26 — no Spanish NIE required to open. Good stopgap.
• Revolut — widely used by expats. Accepted everywhere.

Need Help Getting Set Up?

If you want support with the full admin setup — NIE, empadronamiento, Social Security, healthcare — get in touch.