The Best Banks in Spain for Foreigners: Which One to Choose and Why?

If you have just arrived in Spain or are thinking of moving, opening a bank account may be one of the first tasks on your list. However, if you are a foreigner, you may encounter certain obstacles: complicated requirements, banks asking for the famous NIE (Foreigner’s Identity Number) and fees that may surprise you.

That’s why in this article I’ll tell you which are the best banks in Spain for foreigners, what you need to open an account and some tricks to avoid unnecessary commissions. Let’s get down to business!

INDEX

📌 Why is it important to choose your bank in Spain wisely?

Not all bank accounts are the same, and even less so if you come from another country. In some cases, banks make life much easier for foreigners; in contrast, others can complicate it with unnecessary paperwork.

Choosing your bank well can make a difference in aspects such as:

✅ Ease of opening: do they ask for NIE or is your passport enough?

✅ Fees: Some accounts are free, others have hidden costs.

✅ Online access: If you prefer to do everything from your mobile, a digital bank is better.

✅ Available languages: If you are not fluent in Spanish, this can be key.

Now, let’s see which are the best options according to your profile.

🏦 Best banks in Spain for foreigners

1. BBVA – Easy, digital and commission-free

📌 Ideal for: Foreigners looking for a simple online account, without many complications.

– Opening 100% online from the app, no need to go to a branch.

– Account without commissions or conditions.

– Free debit card.

– You don’t need a NIE to open the account, just your passport.

The best: BBVA’s digital banking is one of the most advanced in Spain. If you prefer to do everything from your mobile, this is a great option.

The worst: Some specific transactions may require you to go to a branch.

2. Banco Santander – The more traditional option

📌 Ideal for: Those who prefer a bank with many branches and ATMs in Spain and abroad.

– Online account without commissions.

– Extensive ATM network in Spain and abroad.

– Allows you to open an account with a passport if you do not yet have a NIE.

– Face-to-face service in branches.

The best: You can find a Santander branch in practically any city or town in Spain.

The worst: Some banking products may have commissions if you do not meet certain requirements.

3. N26 – The perfect digital bank for nomads

📌 Ideal for: Expats and digital nomads looking for an account without borders.

– 100% online opening in minutes.

– No NIE required, just your European passport.

– No maintenance fees.

Free virtual card and physical card option.

The best: It is a fully digital bank, ideal if you move around several countries.

The worst: It has no physical offices in Spain.

4. CaixaBank (HolaBank) – Designed for foreigners

📌 Ideal for: Resident foreigners looking for attention in their language and extra advice.

– Specific accounts for expatriates.

– Attention in English, French and German.

– Extra services such as legal and financial advice.

– Free debit/credit cards for the first year.

The best: Perfect if you are retired or expatriate and need more than just a bank account.

Worst: Some accounts may have fees if you don’t meet certain requirements.

5. Banco Sabadell – Easy opening without NIE

📌 Ideal for: Those who don’t yet have NIE and need a bank account as soon as possible.

– Can be opened with passport without NIE.

– Free debit card for the first year.

– Customer service in English.

The best: Very flexible with the documents required for opening.

Worst: Some accounts may charge fees if certain requirements are not met.

💡Key tips for choosing the best bank in Spain

Avoid banks with high commissions. Look for options without hidden costs.

If you prefer online banking, choose BBVA or N26. They are the most convenient and modern.

Attention in English, CaixaBank or Sabadell can be good options.

If you don’t have a NIE yet, Sabadell and Santander will make it easier for you.

For those who travel a lot, choose N26. Their international transfers are cheaper.

🌍 Conclusion: Which is the best bank in Spain for foreigners?

There is no single answer, as it depends on what you need.

🔹 Looking for an easy and digital account? → BBVA or N26.

🔹 Prefer a traditional bank with lots of branches? → Santander or Sabadell.

🔹 Want attention in your language and extra advice? → CaixaBank (HolaBank).

But before you decide, check the conditions of each bank, and choose the one that best suits your situation.