How to open a bank account in Singapore as a non-resident (UK)

Singapore is known for warm weather, strong job prospects and has a big international community. Whatever your reason for relocating there from the UK, one thing you may need when you arrive is to open a bank account. The process of opening a bank account in Singapore as a foreigner is a little different.

This guide will help you with the process and covers eligibility, documents, online applications, fees and the main bank options for new arrivals.

We’ll also introduce the Wise account so you can send, spend and receive multiple currencies, including Singaporean dollars (SGP). It’s not a bank account but offers some similar features, and your money is safeguarded.

Over 18.9 million people worldwide use Wise to send, spend and convert money in pounds, euros and 40+ more currencies – for low, transparent fees* and no-markup exchange rates close to what you can see on Google. Plus, you’ll get dedicated support and volume discounts when sending large amounts.

➡️ Learn more about the Wise account

Can a foreigner open a bank account in Singapore?

Singapore has a large expat community, so banks are used to applications from people moving there for work or study. If you hold a relevant pass, such as an Employment Pass, S Pass or Student Pass, opening an account is often quite straightforward.¹

For UK citizens, nationality is usually less important than whether the bank can verify your ID, address and tax residency but rules vary by bank and by pass type.

Can you open a Singapore bank account without a visa or as a non-resident?

Yes, sometimes, but it tends to be harder. If you do not have a relevant Singapore pass, some banks may still consider your application as a non-resident, but they often ask you to visit a branch in person and may expect a higher minimum balance or extra documents.

Being a non-resident does not mean it’s impossible, it just means more checks. One alternative is to open a Wise account before you arrive so you can sort your money setup while you compare banks.

What documents do I need to open a bank account in Singapore?

The exact list can vary, but most banks will ask for a core set of documents when you're opening a bank account in Singapore:²

• A valid, up-to-date passport
• Proof of address
• Proof of tax residency
• An employment or study pass, if you're not using Singpass
• An optional valid phone number, usually only if your number has been recycled

Some banks may also ask for a recommendation from your home bank or an introduction from an existing customer. It's worth contacting your chosen bank in advance so you can confirm the full list before you apply.

How to open a bank account in Singapore as a non-resident from the UK

If you're opening a bank account in Singapore as a non-resident from the UK, the process is usually a mix of document checks, ID verification and account selection.

1. Research the eligibility and requirements for your chosen bank and account
2. Gather the required documents and prepare clear copies
3. Apply online through the bank's app or website or using Singpass where available
4. Choose the account type that fits how you'll use it
5. Wait for approval, and be ready to send extra documents if requested
6. Get your account details and set up online or app access

You may still need an in-person branch visit for ID verification. This is especially common if you do not have an employment pass or student pass.

Singaporeans and residents can often speed up applications by pre-filling details through Myinfo via Singpass.³

Can you open a bank account in Singapore online?

Yes, in many cases. Most banks let you start, and often finish, the application online if you have the right paperwork. You will either upload scanned documents yourself or use Singpass to speed things up.³

Which bank is best for foreigners in Singapore?

There is no single best bank for foreigners in Singapore. The right choice depends on whether you need everyday banking, a student account, a foreign-currency option or a wide branch network. Singapore also has a large number of banks and banking institutions.⁶

As a foreigner, you can often access different account types, including savings accounts, student accounts and foreign-currency accounts. Because Singapore has a big expat community many of the banks there are expat-friendly with English-speaking staff available.

DBS Bank

DBS is widely known for its expat-focused onboarding and broad product range for people who are new to Singapore. It can be a practical starting point if you want a large local bank with a strong app and plenty of support for new arrivals.

The DBS Multiplier account is often mentioned by people who want everyday banking with savings features currently offering up to 4.1% per annum. DBS also presents some options suitable for students.⁵

OCBC Bank

OCBC offers several routes depending on what you need, with a range of deposit accounts for residents and foreigners.⁷ The 360 Account is designed for customers who want to earn interest if they meet certain conditions,⁸ while the OCBC Current Account is a simpler everyday option without interest.⁹

For younger customers, OCBC also promotes the FRANK Account for students and under-26s.⁴

UOB (United Overseas Bank)

UOB has personal accounts for expats, students and business customers, and its One Account is a well-known choice for people who want combined savings and spending features.¹⁰

A common point of friction is the application method. Foreigners often need to make an in-branch visit to open an account.¹⁰

POSB Bank

POSB is part of DBS and is often considered by newcomers who want a simple everyday setup. POSB My Account is one option aimed at daily use, and the bank also points new arrivals towards opening through the digibank app with Singpass.¹¹

That can suit people who want a digital-first process once their Singapore documents are in place.

Other banks worth mentioning include HSBC, Citibank, Bank of Singapore and JPMorgan Chase.

What about fees?

Monthly fees may be low or waived, but that does not mean the account is cost-free. The risk here is usually not the headline fee, but the smaller charges that appear if you do not meet the account conditions. Read the account terms carefully before you apply.

• Fall-below fees: Some banks such as OCBC charge if your balance drops below a set minimum.⁹
• Cheque book fees: These can still apply on some current accounts.
• ATM fees: withdrawals are often free at your own bank's ATMs, but charges can apply elsewhere.
• International transfer fees: This is where total cost can rise quickly, because banks may charge a transfer fee and add a margin to the mid-market exchange rate. If you expect to move money from the UK, compare your options before you send money to Singapore.
• Early closure fees: Some banks such as POSB charge if you close the account soon after opening.¹²

Wise – an alternative to a bank account in Singapore

A Singapore bank account is not your only option if you mainly need to move, hold and spend money across currencies. A Wise account could be a useful alternative.

It covers most everyday transaction needs and you can also use it to convert currencies or send money to and from the UK, Singapore and many other countries.

✅ Sign up with Wise for free

Wise Interest disclaimer: Growth not guaranteed. Your balance will go down in the event of a government default or interest rates going negative. Taxes may apply. 3.32% variable rate on GBP is based on 7 day performance as of 05 Aug 2026. For full 5-year past performance and fund information, visit https://wise.com/interest. Investments are offered by Wise Assets UK Ltd. (FRN 839689)

Open a Wise Business account online

Sources used in this article:

1. DBS - new to Singapore: eligibility and account opening for foreigners
2. DBS - documents required for account opening
3. Gov.sg - Myinfo digital identity information
4. OCBC - OCBC FRANK account
5.
DBS - DBS Multiplier and accounts for new arrivals
6. Monetary Authority of Singapore - Number of banks and financial institutions in Singapore
7. OCBC - multi-currency USD current account
8. OCBC - 360 Account
9. OCBC - basic current account
10. UOB - One Account
11. POSB - new to Singapore account opening
12. POSB - deposits guide and pricing

Sources last checked on date: 10-July-2026