It’s hard to imagine living without a bank account in Portugal. That is why we are eager to tell you how exactly you can do this. Let’s begin the discussion then!
Considering the Very Beginning of the Process
Before you get to the actual procedure that will lead you to the result (which is to open a bank account in Portugal), you should receive a NIF. It is a tax identification number for those who plan to reside in Portugal. If you do not have it, it is going to be impossible not only to open an account in the bank but to proceed with other important stuff either.
After you have your NIF (by the way, you can order it online), you are free to get closer to opening a bank account. Note that it’s easier to cooperate with a nice company that will be helping you with all this. Once you stick to it, you won’t get into trouble or face some critical difficulties.
What Shall You Do Next?
A very important step is getting all the necessary documents ready. Here is a list of them:
- Proof of identity. It is represented by a valid passport;
- Proof of having a work;
- Statement of your address (non-residents provide the address from the country of their origin);
- Your NIF.
Note that the types of bank accounts in Portugal vary. So, if you plan to apply for a student account, you need to enclose the documents that will be proving your “student” status.
Besides, the process of opening an account can be different depending on the bank that interests you. At the same time, the list of the documents that have to be presented is pretty much identical.
Going to the Bank
Once you have determined what bank you will go to it’s time to proceed with the following activities:
- Prepare all the documents we have listed above;
- Find out whether there is an English-speaking staff in the bank you have selected (in case you experience any problems with Portuguese);
- Visit the bank.
When all your documents have been submitted, the bank staff will consider them. Normally, the process of opening an account in the Portuguese bank takes about half an hour.
Is It Reasonable to Stick to the Professional Assistance While Opening a Bank Account in Portugal?
Well, this is a nice question to ask. We are about to list the situations when such help is going to be relevant:

- You have some doubts regarding the whole process and feel like you won’t be that nervous if someone will be helping you;
- You want to speed up the process;
- You have some problems with speaking Portuguese;
- You just don’t want to bother and want to experience the result quickly.
If what we have highlighted refers to you, then, it might be a good idea to consider opening a bank account using the assistance of people ready to help with this.
Is It Real to Open the Bank Account Remotely?
Sure! Such a request takes place too. If you have such a necessity, feel free to do so!
In this case, opening a bank account can take about three or four weeks. People who decide to open an account this way should not worry about their bank cards. They will be delivered right to your door. Nevertheless, you’d better proceed with this process by means of professional assistance.
If you deal with a company, ask them what banks are available to open the account at. Study them and select the one that suits you the most.

Ayesha completed her Doctor of Philosophy in Biochemistry and started her career as a College Lecturer in 2013. Today, she’s a happy mom of 2 Kids in the field of digital marketing. She loves reading books, spending time with her family, and making delicious food for her husband.
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