How to open a bank account in Singapore

If you dream of living in a warmer climate, but you’re not ready to retire just yet, you might want to consider a move to Singapore. At 739 square kilometres, Singapore isn’t exactly a big country. In fact, it would be more accurate to call it a small city.

Despite its size, Singapore is a global world city and one of the most popular destinations for expats. This isn’t surprising at all. The weather’s great, there are lots of career opportunities (especially in the financial sector) and [taxes are really low. As a plus, opening a bank account is fairly easy, at least if you’re a resident. Here’s what you need to know.

What documents do I need?

While some banks do allow online applications from expats, as a general rule you will need to visit a branch. Either way, you’re going to need at least two documents:

1. your passport; and
2. your employment pass or study pass.

These are fairly straightforward requirements. You need to obtain your employment pass or study pass before you arrive - without them, you can’t legally work or study in Singapore. Some banks may also require additional documentation, including:

• a document to prove your address;
• a recommendation from your home bank;
• your home tax or national insurance number;
• an introduction from one of the bank’s current customers.

Documents acceptable as proof of address include: - a recent (less than 3 months old) utility bill;

• a phone bill (less than 3 months old);
• official correspondence from the government or a public authority;
• a bank statement (unusually, an e-statement is also acceptable);
• a rental agreement; and
• a formal letter from your employer confirming your employment, together with proof of employment (such as a copy of your employment contract or a payslip, for example).

In addition, if your address is shown on your passport, this is also acceptable as proof of address. It’s always best to get in touch with your bank beforehand, as they can give you a better idea of what documents you’ll need and what to expect during the application process.

Can I open a bank account in Singapore as a non-resident?

At the very least, most Singaporean banks will require your passport and your employment or study pass in order to consider your application. You can only apply for an employment pass through your employer, which means you can’t get one unless you have a job. In the same way, you’ll need to submit a number of documents in order to obtain a student pass, including a study plan. Unfortunately, these requirements make it very difficult to open a bank account in Singapore if you’re just visiting and don’t plan to settle there. It will also make it difficult to open an account in your own name if you’re moving with your significant other and don’t plan to work or study.

Can I open a bank account before I arrive in Singapore?

Because Singapore is a global financial hub, many international banks operate there. Familiar names with operations in Singapore include ABN-AMRO, ANZ, BNP Paribas, Citibank, HSBC and Standard Chartered. If you have a bank account with one of these banks in your home country, they can help you set up a Singaporean bank account before your move. Keep in mind that many banks’ international services are aimed at high net worth individuals, so they may not be the right choice for you. It’s likely you’ll be required to make a large minimum deposit (even up to S$1 million), maintain a large in-credit balance (S$10K+) and pay various account opening fees and charges. Once you have the right documentation, opening an account is really straightforward (and can be done online), so it’s probably a good idea to wait until you’re in Singapore to open your account.

Which bank is best for my needs?

Singapore’s largest banks are: Development Bank of Singapore (DBS), Oversea Chinese Banking Corporation (OCBC) and United Overseas Bank (UOB). Let’s have a look at what each has to offer.

DBS

DBS is the largest bank in Singapore and the whole of Southeast Asia. It has more than four million customers in Singapore alone. If you’re new to Singapore, it’s a great bank to go with, as it has a tailored Expatriate Program you can apply for in branch or even online. The product includes a multi-currency account, which allows you to deposit Singaporean Dollars and up to 12 other currencies in the same account, and a visa credit card that’s fee-free for two years. You’ll also get a bunch of other benefits, including free air miles for using your credit card and exclusive invites to events. If you’re a student, the DBS Remix eSavings Plus account has daily interest and a visa debit card that gives you 0.3% cashback on purchases every three months. You can also apply for a business account. This includes free travel insurance, 0.3% cashback and even invitations to networking events.

OCBC

OCBC have three basic accounts: Frank, Statement Savings and 360 Account. You can only apply for a Frank account if you’re between 16 to 29 years old. It requires no initial deposit or minimum daily in-credit balance, and can earn you up to 0.4% interest per annum - ideal if you’re a student. Both the Statement Savings and 360 Account will require an initial deposit of S$1,000 and a minimum daily in-credit balance. However, you can earn up to 3.25% in interest a year and get bonuses and cashback when you pay bills or even credit your salary by GIRO. You can also apply for a business account, whether you’re registered in Singapore or abroad. However, the products are only available for registered businesses, not sole traders.

UOB

UOB’s One Account offers up to 3.33% interest per year and cashback on debit card transactions. There’s also a Campus Account for students, which comes with a free visa credit card and up to 0.10% interest per annum on your balance. And if you’re a business owner, the business current account has a free corporate ATM card, planned overdraft facilities and up to 20% in rebates.

What are the costs?

While most banks in Singapore offer bank accounts with no monthly fees, you can expect at least some additional costs. Each bank will have its own specific fee structure, so it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with your bank’s terms and conditions. Broadly speaking, you can expect the following fees and charges:

Minimum Deposit Amount and Fall Below Fees

Very often, you’ll need to meet a minimum deposit requirement, which is normally between S$1,000 and S$3,000. Most banks also have a minimum in-credit balance requirement, and you’ll be charged a fee if your balance falls below it.

Early Closure Fees

Many banks require you to keep your account open for a minimum period of time, normally set at six months. Close your account before this period expires, and you’ll be slapped with an early closure fee in the region of S$30.

ATM Fees

Withdrawing from your bank’s ATM machines is free; and some banks will also give you at least a set number of free withdrawals a month from other ATMs. However, as a general rule, it’s better to use your bank’s ATMs. That way, you’re sure you’re not being charged for making a withdrawal. Withdrawing from an ATM whilst overseas is rarely free. Chances are you’ll be slapped with an administration fee and a service charge, as well as an unfavourable exchange rate. That said, OCBC does offer free withdrawals from its ATMs in Hong Kong, Macau, Indonesia and Malaysia. Of course, while the withdrawal itself is free, you may still be charged an unfavourable exchange rate. You should always withdraw money in the local currency, so as to minimise this cost as much as possible.

Unsorted cash bills charge

One really unusual charge you’ll need to look out for is the fee some banks charge for depositing unsorted and unfolded bills. If you use a bank teller to deposit cash, you’ll need to make sure all the banknotes are unfolded, sorted by denomination and front side facing up, as otherwise you may be slapped with a S$50 fee for extra processing time.

International Transfer Fees

Using your bank to make international transfers can get very expensive. You should expect to be charged a transaction fee and a handling fee, as well as agency fees for each transfer. Depending on the bank, this may be either a flat fee or a percentage commission. Either way, the cost will add up. It at all possible, you should avoid using your bank to make international money transfers.

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