Bank accounts
While you’re living in Spain you’ll find it very useful to have a bank account so you can safely and securely keep track of all your expenses and income (renting a flat, applying for a grant, receiving money from home...) and to be able to withdraw money at cashpoint machines at any time of day or night.
In order to be able to open an account in a bank or a building society, you first need to provide proof that you are a resident or non-resident.
If you are a resident, all you need to do is present your NIE (foreign national identity number) to open an account.
If you are not a resident you can:
1. Request a non-resident’s certificate directly from the General Directorate of Police and present it at the bank together with your passport. They will open an account for you that will be operative immediately.
You can also apply for a non-resident’s certificate through the Foreign Nationals Offices or at certain police stations; and if you are not in Spain at the time of your application, through the General Office of Foreign Nationals and Borders (Comisaría General de Extranjería y Fronteras) in Spanish consulates abroad.
You can find all the information at:
http://servicioselectronicos.policia.es:38092/portalCiudadano/extranjeria/pr_cer_no_residen.html
2. Or you can go directly to a bank with your passport and ask them to process your non-resident’s certificate for you.
They charge approximately €15 for this service. Remember that they will make you sign an authorisation and that the account will not become operative until a few days later.
Things to remember
You will find convenient bank branches on most campuses which have some kind of agreement with the universities, and sometimes even process the enrolment fees for you. Ask for more information in the branches themselves.
Many banks offer discounts and special offers for young people and students. Find out about the advantages and don’t forget to take your student card if you have one. Compare a range of different bank accounts to find out whether they offer the option of paying in instalments, the commissions they charge for opening and maintaining the account and any credit or debit cards, online banking facilities...
If you withdraw money from a cashpoint machine which does not belong to your bank, you will generally be charged a commission.
Credit cards are accepted in most business establishments and shops.
If you need to change money, you can do so at any bank branch, in foreign exchange bureaus and in numerous hotels and travel agencies.