Bank Account | Visas.pt

Bank Account

No flights required. We use a Power of Attorney to open your Portuguese bank account remotely — fully lawyer-backed and ready for your move.

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♙ Reviewed by: Joana Guerra (Portuguese Immigration Lawyer) : September 2026
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Method
100% Remote (PoA)
⏱️
Timeline
4–6 weeks
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NIF required
Yes — NIF first
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Service fee
€395

A Portuguese bank account is required to prove funds for visa applications like the D7 and D2, and to receive income or pay bills once resident. Visas.pt opens one remotely using a notarized Power of Attorney for €395, typically completing in 4–6 weeks, and requires a valid NIF first.

Who This Is For

Open your Portuguese bank account before you arrive

A Portuguese IBAN is essential for visa applications, property purchases, and everyday life in Portugal. We handle the entire process remotely via Power of Attorney.

✅ This service works if you…
  • 🏠
    Are buying or renting property in PortugalA local bank account is required for rental agreements, utility setup, and property purchases.
  • 📋
    Are applying for a D7, D2, or D8 visaMost visa packages include the bank account — or you can add it on its own.
  • 🌍
    Are still in your home countryNo need to be in Portugal. Our Power of Attorney handles everything legally.
  • 💼
    Need a Portuguese IBAN for salary or pensionEssential for receiving income in Portugal or transferring funds tax-efficiently.
⚠️ A few things to know first…
  • 🪪
    You must have a NIF number firstWe can't open a bank account without a valid Portuguese tax number. Don't have one? Get your NIF →
  • 📄
    A Power of Attorney requires notarisationThe PoA document needs to be signed and notarised — we guide you through this step.
  • ⏳
    Bank processing takes 4–6 weeksPortuguese banks are thorough. We manage the process and keep you updated throughout.
  • ✈️
    You may need to visit a branch once activatedSome banks require a brief in-person visit when you arrive to activate online banking.
Pricing

Choose the right level of support

No hidden fees. No surprises. Every package includes your NIF and bank account setup, with a 50% discount for the second person and a 70% discount for dependants.

Bank Account
€395
Remote opening, no branch visit needed
  • Apply for Bank account
  • Certify documents via video call
  • Power of Attorney (limited timeframe)
  • Process typically takes over a month
  • (estimated time based on after we have received your documents and is not guaranteed)
Talk to Us Add to Cart
NIF Number
€95
Portuguese Tax ID — required for everything
  • Apply for NIF
  • Certify documents via video call
  • Process takes within 7 business days
(+€50) Rush service: within 2 business days
(Choosing this option will prioritize your NIF application and reduce processing time.)
Learn More Add to Cart
The Process

How we open your account in 5 steps

We handle the complexity. You just need to sign one document and wait for your IBAN.

1
Book & Initial Consultation
We review your situation, confirm you have a valid NIF, and explain exactly what's needed. Takes 15–20 minutes by video call.
2
Power of Attorney Drafted
Our Portuguese lawyer prepares a Power of Attorney document authorising us to act on your behalf with the bank. We send it to you for signature.
3
Document Preparation
We prepare your full bank application pack — including source of funds declaration, certified passport copy, and all required forms.
4
Bank Submission & Liaison
We submit everything to the bank and manage the back-and-forth on your behalf. No waiting on hold — we handle all communication.
5
Account Opened — IBAN Received
Your Portuguese bank account is open. You receive your IBAN and can start transferring funds or receiving income immediately.
What You'll Need

Required documents

We'll tell you exactly what to gather after your booking. Here's the full list.

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Valid Passport
Certified copy of your passport — valid for at least 6 months beyond your application date.
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NIF Number
Your Portuguese tax identification number. Required before opening any bank account.
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Proof of Address (Home Country)
Recent utility bill or bank statement showing your current foreign address (within 3 months).
💰
Source of Funds Declaration
A brief declaration explaining where your funds come from — pension, salary, savings, etc. We help you draft this.
✍️
Signed Power of Attorney
The PoA we prepare — signed by you and notarised in your country. We explain exactly how to do this.
📋
Bank Application Form
We complete this on your behalf using the Power of Attorney. No form-filling required from you.
Already have a NIF? Perfect — you're ready to start. If not, we recommend getting your NIF first (€95) or bundling both services together.
Portuguese Banking

Why open a Portuguese bank account before moving?

A Portuguese bank account can make it easier to manage your move, hold funds in Portugal, pay local expenses and prepare for property or immigration-related financial arrangements.

Visas.pt provides a remote bank-account opening service using a Power of Attorney, so you can begin the process while still outside Portugal.

In short: you need a valid NIF first, the bank will carry out its own KYC and approval checks, and Visas.pt manages the application and bank communication on your behalf.
🏦
Portuguese IBANLocal account for Portuguese banking needs
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Apply from abroadRemote process using Power of Attorney
🔢
NIF firstA valid Portuguese NIF is required before opening
⚖️
Lawyer-backedVisas.pt manages the application and bank liaison
Why You May Need One

What can a Portuguese bank account be used for?

The reason for opening an account depends on your relocation plans, financial arrangements and the requirements of the bank or transaction.

🛂

Visa preparation

A Portuguese account can be part of preparing financial evidence for certain Portugal residence-visa applications. The exact evidence depends on the route and your circumstances.

🏠

Property & rent

A local account can make it easier to manage rental payments, property-related expenses and other transactions in Portugal.

💼

Salary or pension

People moving to Portugal may want a Portuguese IBAN for receiving income or managing regular payments.

💡

Household bills

A Portuguese account can be useful for recurring local payments such as utilities and other household expenses.

💶

Holding funds

You can use a Portuguese account to transfer and manage funds in Portugal, subject to the bank's account terms and controls.

🌍

Before arrival

Remote account opening can allow you to have banking arrangements underway before you physically move to Portugal.

Eligibility

Can a foreigner or non-resident open a Portuguese bank account?

Yes — non-residents can apply

Foreign citizens can apply for Portuguese banking services even when they are not yet living in Portugal. The bank will decide whether to open the account after completing its own identification, compliance and approval checks.

Can I apply before moving?

Yes. The Visas.pt service is designed for applicants who are still abroad. The application is handled remotely through a Power of Attorney, subject to the bank accepting the application and documentation.

Do I need a Portuguese address?

The bank may request proof of your current residential address and other information during its onboarding checks. Your exact documentation depends on the bank and your circumstances.

Does opening an account guarantee approval?

No. The bank makes the final decision. Professional assistance can help prepare the file and manage communication, but it cannot guarantee that a bank will approve an account.

NIF First

Do I need a NIF before opening a Portuguese bank account?

Yes. Your current Visas.pt service requires a valid Portuguese NIF before the bank-account application can proceed. If you do not have one, Visas.pt can obtain the NIF first or combine the NIF and bank-account services.

Already have a NIF?

You can move directly to the bank-account preparation stage once your other required documents are ready.

Start Bank Account Service →

Don't have a NIF?

Get the Portuguese tax identification number first, then proceed with the bank-account application.

Get Your NIF →
Documents

What documents are needed to open a Portuguese bank account?

The bank can request additional information depending on its KYC and compliance requirements. The current Visas.pt service identifies these core documents.

Valid passportCertified copy of your passport according to the application requirements.
NIF numberYour Portuguese tax identification number must be available before the account application.
Proof of addressA recent utility bill or bank statement showing your current home-country address may be required.
Source of fundsA declaration or supporting evidence explaining where your funds originate, such as salary, pension or savings.
Power of AttorneyThe signed and notarised PoA authorising the Visas.pt team to act on your behalf.
Bank application formsThe forms required by the selected bank, prepared and handled as part of the service.
Important: Banks can request additional documents or information. KYC, source-of-funds and anti-money-laundering checks are controlled by the bank.
Remote Opening

How can I open a Portuguese bank account from abroad?

1

Book & initial consultation

We review your situation, confirm your NIF and explain the documents required for the application.

2

Power of Attorney

A Portuguese lawyer prepares the PoA authorising the team to act on your behalf with the bank. You sign and notarise it as instructed.

3

Document preparation

Your passport, NIF, proof of address, source-of-funds information and other required documentation are prepared for submission.

4

Bank submission & liaison

Visas.pt submits the application and manages communication with the bank while its checks are completed.

5

IBAN received

Once the bank approves and opens the account, you receive the account details and can follow the bank's next activation steps.

Time & Approval

How long does it take to open a Portuguese bank account?

4–6 weeksThe current Visas.pt service estimate for the bank-account process once the required documentation is available.
Bank checksThe bank controls its own KYC, compliance and approval process.
Documents firstDelays can occur if documents or information are incomplete or additional evidence is requested.
UpdatesVisas.pt manages communication and keeps you informed during the process.
Timeline is not a guarantee. The current service page states 4–6 weeks, but actual completion depends on document readiness, bank checks and the bank's processing time.
Bank Selection

Which Portuguese bank is best for expats?

There is no single best bank for everyone

The most suitable bank can depend on your nationality, residency plans, account purpose, source of funds, fees and the bank's current onboarding requirements.

Millennium BCP & Caixa Geral de Depósitos

Visas.pt's current page identifies major Portuguese banks including Millennium BCP and Caixa Geral de Depósitos as institutions it works with for non-resident applications.

What should I compare?

Consider account fees, online banking, cards, transfer options, customer support, minimum balances and the bank's requirements for your particular circumstances.

Who makes the final decision?

The bank. Visas.pt can recommend and manage the application based on your situation, but the bank controls account approval.

After Approval

What happens after my Portuguese bank account is opened?

Receive your IBAN

Once the account is opened, you receive your Portuguese IBAN and the account information supplied by the bank.

Transfer funds

You can transfer funds into the account subject to the bank's controls, transfer provider requirements and source-of-funds checks.

Activate online banking

Follow the bank's activation and security procedures. Some banks may require a brief in-person step after arrival.

Use the account for your move

Depending on the account terms, you can use it for Portuguese expenses such as rent, utilities, transfers and other local payments.

Common Questions

What if there is a problem with my bank-account application?

The bank asks for more documents

This is common during KYC and compliance checks. We help identify what the bank has requested and coordinate the response.

The application is delayed

Bank processing can take longer than expected. We follow up with the bank and keep you updated on the status.

The bank does not approve the account

Bank approval cannot be guaranteed. If an application is declined, the circumstances can be reviewed and an alternative route or bank may be considered where appropriate.

I already have an account elsewhere

Tell us about your existing banking arrangements. We can explain whether a Portuguese account would still be useful for your relocation plans.

Ready to Start?

Open your Portuguese bank account before you arrive.

Start with your NIF and let our team handle the Power of Attorney, document preparation and bank liaison remotely.

Book a Free Consultation → Send Us a Message
Bank Account Service
Open your Portuguese IBAN from anywhere in the world
Most Popular
Bank Account Opening
€395
Full PoA service — remote, lawyer-backed, 4–6 weeks.
NIF + Bank Account Bundle
€490
Get both at a reduced rate. NIF in 7 days, bank account in 4–6 weeks.
Included in Visa Packages
from €1595
Bank account + NIF included in Done With You and Done For You packages.
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FAQ

Questions about our Bank Account

Yes. Foreign citizens can apply for a Portuguese bank account, including in appropriate circumstances while still abroad. The bank performs its own identification, compliance and approval checks.

Yes. Non-residents can apply for Portuguese banking services. Requirements depend on the bank, applicant and intended use.

Yes. The current Visas.pt service is designed to help applicants open an account remotely before arriving, using a Power of Attorney.

Visas.pt offers remote bank-account assistance using a notarised Power of Attorney. Final approval remains with the bank.

Yes for the current Visas.pt bank-account service. A valid Portuguese NIF is required before the application can proceed.

If you do not have a NIF, you can obtain it first and then proceed with the bank-account application. Visas.pt also offers a separate NIF service.

The current service identifies a valid passport, NIF, proof of address, source-of-funds information, signed and notarised Power of Attorney and bank forms. Additional documents may be requested.

A recent utility bill or bank statement showing your current address may be required. The exact evidence depends on the bank.

It authorises Visas.pt to act on your behalf with the bank during the application process. The current service requires it to be signed and notarised as instructed.

Yes. The current Visas.pt process requires the Power of Attorney to be signed and notarised according to the instructions provided.

The current Visas.pt service gives an estimated timeline of 4–6 weeks. Actual processing varies with documents, bank checks and additional requests.

The current page lists a service fee of €395. Any separate bank or third-party costs should be confirmed for the individual application.

The appropriate bank depends on your circumstances and the bank's current onboarding requirements. Visas.pt works with Portuguese banks for appropriate applications.

There is no single best bank for everyone. Fees, features, online banking, requirements, nationality and intended use can affect suitability.

Bank selection depends on your circumstances, the service process and which banks accept the relevant application. This can be discussed during the initial assessment.

Yes, a Portuguese account can be an important part of D7 preparation and financial arrangements. Visa requirements should be assessed separately.

Yes. A Portuguese account can be part of D2 preparation and financial arrangements. The bank account and visa are separate processes.

A Portuguese account can be useful for someone relocating under D8, but the D8 requirements should be assessed separately from banking requirements.

It can make property payments and local financial arrangements easier. Whether it is legally required depends on the particular transaction.

It can make rent and household payments easier. Contract requirements depend on the landlord and circumstances.

A Portuguese IBAN can be used for eligible salary or pension payments, subject to the payer's and bank's requirements.

Yes, subject to the bank's terms, transfer-provider rules and any source-of-funds or compliance checks.

It can. Banks conduct KYC and anti-money-laundering checks and may request information or evidence about the source of funds.

The current Visas.pt service is designed for remote opening using a Power of Attorney. Some banks may still require an in-person step after arrival.

Possibly. The current Visas.pt page notes that some banks may require a brief in-person visit to activate online banking.

You receive the account information and IBAN and follow the bank's activation procedures. The account can then be used subject to its terms.

Additional requests can be part of normal compliance checks. Visas.pt can help coordinate the requested information and communication.

Processing can take longer than the estimate. Visas.pt follows up with the bank, but the bank controls its own processing time.

Bank approval cannot be guaranteed. If declined, the circumstances can be reviewed and another appropriate option may be considered where available.

No. A bank account and a visa are separate decisions. Opening an account does not guarantee visa or residence approval.
Ready to Start?

Get your Portuguese bank account open — before you land

Book now and our team will guide you through every step. Most clients have their IBAN within 4–6 weeks.

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