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Bank Account Opening

Business setup & company support

Bank Account Opening

Bank account opening in the Philippines for foreigners refers to the legal process of setting up either a personal or corporate bank account with a local Philippine bank. Whether you’re a foreign resident, investor, digital nomad, or business owner, opening a Philippine bank account is essential for conducting daily transactions, receiving payments, and managing finances locally.

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Manila Cebu Work with us from anywhere

120+ businesses registered since 2019

Service overview

Key Benefits of Bank Account Opening in the Philippines

Banks in the Philippines offer Peso and Dollar accounts, online banking, checkbooks, debit cards, and business accounts with features tailored to expats and foreign-owned corporations. Opening a bank account as a foreigner typically requires valid identification, proof of legal stay, and documentation based on the account type.
Securely manage funds in the local currency (PHP) or foreign currencies
Receive payments locally for business, rent, or freelance work
Access to online and mobile banking platforms
Ability to pay bills, send money, and withdraw from ATMs nationwide
Required for registering a business, applying for visas, or investing
Allows for salary payments to employees for foreign-owned companies
Boosts financial credibility with government agencies, landlords, and partners
Enables international transfers and remittances

Requirements and details

Eligibility Criteria

Basic qualifications for Bank Account Opening:
  • For Personal Accounts: Foreigners with valid passport. Holders of legal visas such as: SRRV, 13A, 9G, Special Investor’s Resident Visa (SIRV), Long-stay tourist visa holders (depending on the bank’s policy), Proof of address in the Philippines (rental contract, utility bill, or barangay certificate)
  • For Corporate Accounts: SEC-registered corporations with foreign ownership or businesses with complete corporate documents, including: Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws, BIR Certificate of Registration (Form 2303), Mayor’s Permit, Board Resolution authorizing account opening, Valid IDs of authorized signatories and other requirements as prescribed by the designated bank.

How it works

Application Process

The exact requirements and timing depend on your circumstances, but most applications follow these stages.

  1. Initial Consultation

    We help determine the most suitable type of account for your needs: personal or corporate and assess bank-specific requirements based on your visa status, business type, and documentation.
  2. Document Preparation

    We tell you which documents your chosen bank requires, such as your passport and visa documents, and check them before your appointment.
  3. Bank Coordination & Appointment Scheduling

    We coordinate directly with trusted banks to: Pre-screen your application, Set your branch appointment, Prepare the bank forms ahead of time
  4. Onsite or Remote Support During Account Opening

    Our team assists you during the bank visit or onboarding process to ensure a smooth experience—from verifying documents to submitting your application.

What Our Service Includes

Since 2019 we have registered more than 120 businesses for local and foreign founders. Our service fee covers everything below, from the first document to the final approval.

  • Documents prepared and notarizedWe prepare every document your application needs, and our in-house attorneys notarize them.
  • With you at government officesOur staff assist you on site at your government appointments, so you never face an agency alone.
  • We deal with the agenciesWe coordinate with the agencies, follow up on your application and keep you updated at every step.
  • Accredited with DOLE and BIC&G is accredited with the Department of Labor and the Bureau of Immigration.
  • An experienced teamOur team, including two attorneys, has more than 10 years of experience in business and immigration consulting.
  • No hidden feesYour quote shows our service cost and the government fees separately, so you know the full cost before we begin.
  • Manila, Cebu or remoteMeet us at our Manila or Cebu office, or work with us remotely from anywhere.

Written and reviewed by the C&G business services team. Last updated . Government requirements and fees change, so confirm the details for your case before filing.

★★★★★

4.9 across 100+ Google reviews.

Read what clients say about working with our Cebu and Manila teams.

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