Can I Open a Bank Account Without a NIE Number in Spain?

If you’ve spent more than five minutes researching life in Spain, you’ve probably heard this phrase shouted across forums, Facebook groups, WhatsApp chats, and pub conversations in coastal towns:

“You can’t do anything in Spain without a NIE.”

Sounds terrifying, right?

Now here’s the truth — and it might surprise you:

👉 Yes, you can open a bank account in Spain without a NIE number.
👉 But not all bank accounts.
👉 And not in all situations.
👉 And not without a few catches.

This article explains exactly how it works, when it’s possible, when it’s not, which banks allow it, what type of account you’ll get, what it costs, and — most importantly — when getting a NIE first actually saves you time, money, and stress.

No myths. No fluff. No outdated advice from 2014.

Let’s get into it 🇪🇸💳

---

The Short Answer (Before the Real Explanation)

Yes, you can open a Spanish bank account without a NIE, but only as a non-resident, and it usually comes with:

• Higher monthly fees
• More paperwork
• Fewer features
• Extra scrutiny
• And eventual pressure to get a NIE anyway

So while it is possible, it’s often not the best long-term solution.

Now let’s break down why.

---

What Is a NIE — and Why Banks Care So Much

A NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is Spain’s official identification number for foreigners.

Banks care about it because it allows them to:

• Verify your identity with Spanish authorities
• Link you to tax and compliance systems
• Satisfy anti-money-laundering regulations
• Confirm residency status
• Report interest to the Spanish tax office (when required)

Without a NIE, banks treat you as temporary, external, and higher risk.

That doesn’t mean no account — it just means a different type of account.

---

The Two Types of Spanish Bank Accounts (This Is Crucial)

1️⃣ Non-Resident Bank Accounts (No NIE Required)

This is the account most people get before their NIE.

Key features:

• Designed for tourists, second-home owners, and short-term visitors
• Requires a passport instead of a NIE
• Subject to stricter checks
• Higher monthly fees
• Often limited functionality

These accounts exist specifically for people without a NIE.

2️⃣ Resident Bank Accounts (NIE Required)

This is the normal, everyday Spanish bank account.

Key features:

• Requires a NIE
• Much lower (or zero) monthly fees
• Easier online banking
• Direct debits, salary payments, utilities
• Accepted everywhere without issues

Most people eventually need this account.

---

So Yes — You Can Open a Bank Account Without a NIE (Here’s How)

To open a non-resident Spanish bank account, you’ll usually need:

• Valid passport
• Proof of address outside Spain
• Proof of income or funds (sometimes)
• Non-resident declaration form
• In-person visit to a branch
• Patience 😄

Some banks may also ask for:

• Spanish phone number
• Explanation of why you need the account
• Source of funds declaration

---

Which Spanish Banks Allow Accounts Without a NIE?

Most major banks technically allow it, but the experience varies wildly by branch and staff member.

Common banks offering non-resident accounts include:

• Banco Santander
• BBVA
• CaixaBank
• Sabadell

Important reality check:

👉 There is no “national rule” applied consistently.
👉 Branch discretion matters more than bank branding.

One branch may say “Impossible without a NIE”, while another does it in 20 minutes.

Welcome to Spain 🇪🇸

---

The Hidden Cost of Non-Resident Accounts

Here’s where most people get caught out.

Typical Non-Resident Account Fees

• Monthly fee: €15–€30
• Annual cost: €180–€360
• International transfer fees
• Card fees sometimes charged separately

Some banks also charge a non-resident verification fee every two years.

Compare that with many resident accounts:

• €0 monthly fees
• Free debit cards
• Free SEPA transfers

Suddenly, getting a NIE doesn’t feel optional anymore…

---

Can Tourists Open a Spanish Bank Account Without a NIE?

Yes — tourists absolutely can.

But it’s usually only worth doing if:

• You’re buying a property
• You need to pay Spanish taxes
• You’re staying long-term seasonally
• You need a Spanish IBAN urgently

For short holidays?
👉 It’s usually unnecessary.

---

Can I Open a Spanish Bank Account Online Without a NIE?

This is where misinformation explodes online.

The truth:

❌ Most Spanish banks do not allow full account opening online without a NIE
❌ Apps often stop halfway and request NIE details
❌ Video ID checks still lead to branch visits

Some fintechs offer IBANs, but:

• They’re not always accepted for utilities
• Some Spanish authorities reject them
• They don’t replace a traditional bank account

---

Will the Bank Eventually Ask Me for a NIE?

Almost always.

Common scenarios:

• Account review after 6–12 months
• Compliance audit
• Large transfers
• Property purchase
• Utility payments setup

Banks may say:

“Please provide your NIE or we may restrict the account.”

This is normal, not personal.

---

Do I Need a NIE to Buy Property If I Already Have a Bank Account?

Yes. 100%. No exceptions.

Even if you opened a non-resident bank account:

• Notary requires NIE
• Property registry requires NIE
• Taxes require NIE

A bank account does not replace a NIE.

---

Can I Pay Bills Without a NIE?

Technically yes — but practically messy.

Some companies:

• Refuse non-resident IBANs
• Reject certain account types
• Flag accounts for compliance

Many utilities expect a resident account.

---

The Smart Route Most People Take (And Why)

Here’s what actually works best for most foreigners:

1️⃣ Open a non-resident account temporarily (if needed urgently)
2️⃣ Apply for a NIE as soon as possible
3️⃣ Convert or reopen as a resident account
4️⃣ Reduce fees and unlock full features

This avoids:

• Paying €300+ per year unnecessarily
• Bank freezes
• Rejected payments
• Stressful compliance emails

---

Why Banks Often Give Conflicting Answers

Three reasons:

1. Staff training varies
2. Internal policy changes frequently
3. Risk tolerance differs by branch

So when someone online says “I was told no” — it doesn’t mean you will be.

---

Is It Easier to Get a NIE First, Then Open a Bank Account?

In most cases?

👉 Yes. Massively easier.

With a NIE:

• Faster account opening
• Fewer questions
• Lower fees
• More banking options

This is why many people now sort the NIE first, then handle banking smoothly.

---

Common Myths (Let’s Kill These Once and For All)

❌ “You can’t open any bank account without a NIE”
✔️ False

❌ “Tourists are not allowed bank accounts”
✔️ False

❌ “Online banks avoid NIE rules”
✔️ Mostly false

❌ “Once opened, you’ll never need a NIE”
✔️ Very false

---

FAQs: Opening a Bank Account in Spain Without a NIE

Can I open a Spanish bank account with just a passport?

Yes — as a non-resident, depending on the bank and branch.

Is a NIE mandatory for all Spanish bank accounts?

No — only for resident accounts.

Are non-resident accounts safe?

Yes, but they’re more expensive and limited.

Can I receive money from abroad without a NIE?

Yes, but large transfers may trigger checks.

Can I later add my NIE to the same account?

Often yes — but sometimes banks require a new account.

Is a Spanish bank account required to apply for a NIE?

No — the NIE comes first, independently.

Will my account be closed if I don’t get a NIE?

It can be restricted or flagged over time.

Do UK citizens need a NIE to open a bank account after Brexit?

Same rules as other non-EU nationals — non-resident account first, NIE later.

---

Final Verdict: Should You Open a Bank Account Without a NIE?

Yes, you can.
But no, it’s not ideal long-term.

If you need:

• A temporary solution → Non-resident account works
• Full Spanish life setup → Get your NIE first

The Spanish system is built around the NIE. Banking is no exception.

Here are suggested banks where you can open a bank account in Spain without a NIE number (as a non-resident), including links to their official sites and a quick note on the situation 👇

🏦 1. Banco Santander

Non-Resident Account: Cuenta Online para No Residentes – you can open this account with just a valid passport if you live outside Spain. It’s designed for foreigners who don’t have a NIE yet, letting you receive payments and make transfers. 
🔗 https://www.bancosantander.es/en/particulares/cuentas-bancarias/cuenta-online-con-pasaporte

---

🏦 2. BBVA

Non-Resident Account: BBVA allows non-residents to open accounts using a valid passport in many branches. You’ll need to visit one of their offices to complete the process. 
🔗 https://www.bbva.es

---

🏦 3. Banco Sabadell

Non-Resident Account: Key Account is available for non-residents, and you can open it with just a passport and identity documents. It often includes a free debit card and basic banking features. 
🔗 https://www.bancsabadell.com/bsnacional/en

---

🏦 4. CaixaBank

Non-Resident Account: Although traditionally they ask for NIE for resident accounts, CaixaBank also supports non-resident accounts for foreigners; they have options tailored to people without a NIE. Check their Cuenta para Extranjeros for details and eligibility. 
🔗 https://www.caixabank.es/particular/cuentas

---

💳 5. Digital & Neobank Alternatives (often easier without NIE)

These aren’t traditional Spanish banks, but they let you get a European (often Spanish IBAN) account with just a passport — perfect if you don’t have a NIE and want an online solution:

• Revolut – open via app using passport and selfie, instant IBAN. 
  🔗 https://www.revolut.com
• N26 – mobile-first European bank with easy online signup. 
  🔗 https://n26.com

---

📌 Notes & Tips

• Non-Resident vs Resident: All of the above allow non-residents to open accounts without a NIE, but only non-resident accounts — you still might need a NIE later for resident accounts or advanced services. 
• In person vs online: Some banks require you to visit a branch to open the account in person, while others offer digital onboarding if you live abroad. 
• Documentation: You’ll usually need your passport, proof of address in your home country, and sometimes a non-resident certificate — but not a NIE upfront. 

Need a NIE? read our expert NIE Number guide by clicking here

MY NIE RATED AS 4.9 ON GOOGLE MAPS. OVER 500 5 star reviews. Read our reviews below