How to Open a European Savings Account Online as an Expat

This guide explains how expats can open a savings account fully online, what documents are required, and which European banks offer the most convenient and accessible options.

Can expats open a European savings account online?

Yes. As of 2026, many EU and EEA banks allow online savings account opening for non-residents, digital nomads and newly arrived expats.
Requirements vary, but the general rules are:

• Passport or national ID required
• Proof of current address (even outside the EU) accepted by many digital banks
• Remote identity verification available in most countries
• EU deposit guarantee applies to savings accounts up to €100,000 per bank

Countries with the easiest expat onboarding include Germany, France, Portugal, Estonia, Lithuania and Ireland.

What documents do you need as an expat?

The documentation is similar across the EU, but digital banks are usually more flexible.

Typically required:

• Valid passport
• Proof of address (utility bill, bank statement, rental contract)
• Tax Identification Number (TIN)
• Phone number (EU or international)
• Optional: proof of income or employment for certain account types

Most banks now accept digital uploads or live verification via mobile app.

Online onboarding: which European banks offer it?

2026 is the strongest year yet for online banking options. Many institutions support fully remote onboarding, especially for savings accounts.

Types of banks offering online opening

• Digital EU banks (the easiest for expats)
• Traditional banks with online identity checks
• Fintech platforms offering cross-border savings products

What you can open online

• Basic savings accounts
• High-yield online savings accounts
• Instant access savings
• Fixed-term online savings (depending on the bank)

Digital onboarding is typically available in Germany, the Baltics, the Netherlands, Spain and Portugal.

Step-by-step guide: How to open a European savings account online (2026)

This is the most reliable sequence for expats:

1. Choose the country and bank

Compare EU savings rates, account features, and expat eligibility.

2. Check non-resident requirements

Some banks require a local address; many digital banks do not.

3. Prepare your documents

Digital copies are usually enough. Have your passport and proof of address ready.

4. Complete the online identification

Options depend on the bank:

• Video identification
• eID (electronic identity)
• NFC passport scan
• App-based verification

5. Open the account online

Fill out a short application, upload documents and confirm terms.

6. Transfer your first deposit

You can usually fund the new European savings account via:

• international bank transfer
• SEPA transfer
• funding from an existing EU account (if you have one)

7. Manage everything through the online dashboard

Banks provide real-time interest, balance tracking and deposit guarantee information.

This process works for nearly all banks offering online savings account opening in Europe.

Which European savings accounts are best for expats?

Although offers change, expats generally prefer banks that provide:

• Fast online verification
• English-language support
• Transparent fees
• Access from abroad
• High savings interest rates
• Strong online banking apps

Germany, Estonia, Ireland and Portugal have some of the most expat-friendly digital banks in the EU.

Are savings accounts guaranteed in the EU?

Yes. All regulated savings accounts are protected under the EU Deposit Guarantee Scheme, which covers up to €100,000 per person per bank.

This protection also applies to expats, regardless of citizenship or residence status.

Opening a European savings account online as an expat in 2026 is easier than ever. With digital onboarding, flexible document requirements and expat-friendly banking platforms, you can open and manage your account from anywhere - even before relocating.

Choosing the right country and bank ensures safe euro savings, competitive interest rates and full EU-level protection.