Bank Accounts

Non-Residents

Visitors can open a bank account with a non-resident certificate, which they can get from the local Spanish police office by presenting their passport and a copy of the original and completing the application form. Visitors must close these accounts if they become resident.

Residents

UK nationals resident in Spain can open a bank account with their NIE card/certificate. If they do not have a residence card, UK nationals can open a bank account with their passport and an NIE (Foreigner Identification number).

From 28 March 2007, Royal Decree 240/07 requires that all EU citizens planning to reside in Spain for more than three months register in person at the Foreigner´s Office (Oficina de Extranjeros) in their province of residence or at designated Police Stations.  However, they will no longer be issued with a residence card and, instead, will be issued a Residence Certificate stating their name, address, nationality, identity number and date of registration. 

EU citizens who already have valid residency cards need take no action until their card expires. On expiry they too must register at the Oficina de Extranjeros or designated police stations. For further information, please visit our section on residence requirements.

There is also provision for non-EU family members, who have entered on valid passports and visas (where required), to reside with EU citizens, providing they too register in person at the Oficina de Extranjeros or designated Police Stations within 3 months of entry.  They will be issued with Tarjetas de Residencia de Familiar de Cuidadano de la Union (Residency cards for family members of EU citizens).  Additional documents will be required.

You should obtain further information and application forms from the Ministerio del Interior or in person, by appointment only at the Oficina de Extranjeros or local police station in your province of residence.  

Oficina de Extranjeros:
Plaza del Mundo Nuevo, 3
28005 Madrid
Metro: Puerta de Toledo

To make an appointment, please call:
902 56 57 01

Labour Ministry´s Immigration Directorate helpline:
(+34) 91 363 9071/ 91 363 9069/ 91 363 7108

Transfer of Capital

There is generally no restriction on the import of capital into Spain, but it is advisable to check with your bank in case any special formalities are necessary.

Taxation

Britain has a double taxation agreement with Spain, to ensure people do not pay tax on the same income in both countries. However, taxation is a complex issue, and advice should be sought. The Spanish Finance Ministry publishes a book in English called 'Taxation Regulations for Foreigners'.