What banks need
NIE, passport, proof of address (utility bill, less than three months old), proof of income (last three pay slips or tax return). Some now also ask for a Spanish phone number.
Banks that take non-residents smoothly
Sabadell runs a dedicated non-resident department in English. CaixaBank HolaBank is built for foreign buyers and waives the €15/month non-resident fee for clients with mortgages. BBVA has the best mobile app in English.
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Start matchingNo-NIE digital alternatives
Wise and Revolut open EUR accounts with Spanish IBANs in minutes, accepted by most utilities and landlords. Good for initial transfers and rent before NIE arrives. Not suitable for mortgage drawdowns.
The non-resident certificate
To open as a non-resident you need the certificado de no residencia — bank typically requests it from the police on your behalf for €15. Allow 7–14 days.
See our NIE number step-by-step guide.
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