Opening a bank account in Portugal from abroad is sometimes possible, although the process depends on the bank, the applicant’s profile and the verification requirements involved.
This page provides general information only. Portuguese banks apply their own procedures, and requirements may vary depending on the institution and individual circumstances. Details should be confirmed with the bank, Portuguese authorities or a qualified professional.
Can You Open a Bank Account in Portugal from Abroad?
In some cases, yes. It may be possible to open a Portuguese bank account from abroad, although not all banks offer this option and requirements are usually stricter than in-person applications.
Applicants are typically required to provide full documentation, complete identity verification and meet compliance checks before the account can be opened.
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Table of Contents
How Opening a Bank Account from Abroad Works
Opening a bank account remotely usually involves submitting documents, completing identity verification and undergoing compliance checks without being physically present in Portugal.
This may include certified documents, video identification or working with intermediaries depending on the bank’s procedures.
In most cases, a Portuguese tax identification number (NIF) is required before the account can be opened.
Typical Requirements
Requirements vary between banks, but remote applications generally involve a more detailed review of documents and background information.
Common requirements may include:
- valid passport or national ID;
- Portuguese NIF;
- proof of address in the country of residence;
- proof of income or source of funds;
- foreign tax identification number;
- explanation of the intended use of the account.
For a full breakdown, see documents needed to open a bank account in Portugal.
Identity Verification and Compliance
Identity verification is a key part of the remote account opening process. Banks must comply with anti-money laundering regulations and customer identification rules.
Depending on the bank, verification may involve:
- video identification;
- certified copies of documents;
- notarised or apostilled documents;
- additional checks on tax residence and financial activity.
These requirements are typically stricter than for in-person applications.
Limitations of Opening from Abroad
Opening a bank account from abroad is not always available and may be limited depending on the bank and applicant profile.
Possible limitations include:
- restricted availability depending on country of residence;
- longer processing times;
- additional documentation requirements;
- limited product access until residency is established.
Some banks may require an in-person visit at a later stage to fully activate the account.
Opening from Abroad as a Non-Resident
Most remote applications are handled under non-resident conditions. This means the applicant is treated as living outside Portugal for banking purposes.
Non-resident accounts may involve additional checks, including verification of foreign address, tax status and source of funds.
See opening a bank account in Portugal as a non-resident for more detail.
Can You Open a Bank Account from Abroad Without a NIF?
In most cases, no. Portuguese banks generally require a NIF before opening an account, including remote applications.
Some exceptions may exist depending on the bank, but these should not be assumed.
See whether it is possible to open a bank account without a NIF.
Why People Open Accounts from Abroad
Opening a bank account before arriving in Portugal may be useful in several situations.
- preparing for relocation;
- buying property in Portugal;
- paying deposits or initial expenses;
- supporting visa or residency applications;
- organising finances before moving.
Where the account is part of a relocation plan, moving to Portugal may provide additional context.
When Professional Support May Be Useful
Professional support may be useful where the applicant is outside Portugal, needs certified documentation, does not yet have a NIF or is opening an account as part of a visa or property process.
Qualified professionals may assist with NIF applications, document preparation and communication with banks, depending on the situation.
This site does not offer legal, tax, banking or relocation services directly. Where needed, readers may be connected with independent professionals.
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Related Pages
- How to open a bank account in Portugal
- Opening a bank account in Portugal as a non-resident
- Documents required to open a Portuguese bank account
- Do you need a NIF to open a bank account in Portugal?
- How to get a NIF in Portugal
FAQ
Can you open a bank account in Portugal from abroad?
In some cases, yes. Some banks allow remote account opening, although requirements are typically stricter than for in-person applications.
Do you need a NIF to open a bank account from abroad?
In most cases, yes. Portuguese banks generally require a NIF before opening an account, including remote applications.
Is it possible to open a Portuguese bank account online?
Some banks offer partial online processes, but full account opening usually still involves identity verification and document checks.
Can non-residents open a bank account from abroad?
Yes. Non-residents may be able to open a Portuguese bank account remotely, subject to the bank’s requirements and verification procedures.
How long does it take to open a bank account remotely?
Processing times vary depending on the bank, documentation and verification process, but remote applications may take longer than in-person account openings.
This guide was prepared with care to provide clear, factual information based on official Portuguese sources and general banking practice. Requirements may change, and individual cases can vary. Readers should confirm details with Portuguese authorities, banks or qualified professionals before making decisions.
