Banks That Don't Work
Traditional Spanish banks I tested that require NIE and reject passport-only applications
Why this page exists
Most banking guides in Spain only tell you what works. They don't tell you what doesn't work and why you'll be rejected.
I tested these banks personally. They all rejected me or required NIE at some point in the process. This saves you from wasting time on banks that won't accept you.
Important: These banks might accept you if you already have NIE, TIE, or Spanish residency. This page is specifically about opening accounts with passport only, no NIE.
Banks tested and rejected
Why it doesn't work
BBVA requires NIE or TIE for all account types, including their "non-resident account." The online application asks for NIE in step 2. Branch visits also require NIE.
Tested 8 times between Jan-Feb 2026: 8/8 rejections without NIE.
Result: "We need your NIE/NIE to continue" error at document upload step
Branch attempt: Clerk said NIE is mandatory for all accounts
✓ What works instead
If you need a Spanish IBAN (ES) to receive salary or domiciliate bills, use Revolut (accepts passport only, gives Spanish IBAN).
Why it doesn't work
Santander's non-resident account theoretically accepts passport, but in practice they ask for proof of address in Spain (rental contract or padrón). Without NIE, you can't get padrón. Catch-22.
Tested 5 times between Jan-Feb 2026: 4/5 rejections (1 branch accepted but required €3,000 minimum deposit).
Result: Online application requires "proof of address in Spain"
Branch attempt: One branch accepted but required €3,000 minimum deposit + proof of income
✓ What works instead
For traditional bank feel with EU regulation, use N26 (German IBAN, video verification, no minimum deposit).
Why it doesn't work
CaixaBank requires NIE for online applications. Branch visits technically accept passport for non-resident accounts, but require Spanish phone number and proof of address. Very inconsistent between branches.
Tested 6 times between Jan-Feb 2026: 5/6 rejections (1 branch said "maybe with manager approval" but never followed up).
Result: Online requires NIE. Branch said "we need to verify with manager" and never responded
Note: Requirements vary wildly by branch location
✓ What works instead
If you were rejected elsewhere, Wise has the highest approval rate (accepts almost any passport).
Why traditional banks require NIE
Spanish banks are required by law to verify customer identity for anti-money laundering (AML) compliance. NIE is the easiest way for them to do this.
They could accept passport only (like N26, Revolut, Wise do), but most traditional Spanish banks choose not to because:
- More complex verification process
- Less familiar with foreign passports
- Conservative approach to regulatory compliance
- Target market is Spanish residents, not new arrivals
What if I already tried these banks?
If BBVA, Santander, or CaixaBank rejected you, it's not your fault. Their requirements are designed for residents, not migrants.
Don't waste more time trying different branches. The digital banks (Revolut, Wise, N26) work better for your situation.
Good news: Once you get your NIE (usually 2-4 weeks after arrival), you can open accounts at traditional banks if you prefer them. But you don't need to wait for that to have a working bank account.
Will these banks ever accept passport only?
Unlikely in the short term. Traditional Spanish banks move slowly and are conservative with regulatory changes.
If any of these banks start accepting passport-only applications, I'll update this page immediately and create a guide.
But don't hold your breath. Use what works today instead of waiting for what might work someday.