
Opening a DBS bank account as a foreigner can seem daunting, but it's actually a relatively straightforward process.
To start, you'll need to meet DBS's eligibility criteria, which includes being at least 18 years old and having a valid passport.
DBS offers a range of account options for foreigners, including the DBS Multi-Currency Account, which allows you to hold and manage multiple currencies in one account.
You can open a DBS account online or in-branch, with the online application process typically taking around 10 minutes to complete.
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Eligibility and Requirements
To open a DBS bank account in Singapore, you'll need to provide the required identification documents, including your passport, work permit or employment pass, FIN (Foreign Identification Number), and Singapore mobile number. It's also a good idea to have a SingPass account, which is a national digital identity for Singapore citizens and permanent residents.
Foreign entities are eligible to set up a bank account with DBS in Singapore, but they'll need to provide additional documentation, such as their certificate of incorporation, business registration, and proof of address.
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Here's a quick rundown of the identification documents you'll need to provide:
- Passport
- Work permit or employment pass
- FIN (Foreign Identification Number)
- Singapore mobile number
If you're a work permit holder, you'll also need to provide proof of residence and your Singapore mobile number. The minimum deposit required to initiate a savings account with DBS is $1,000, which is required to activate the account and maintain its status.
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Eligibility Criteria
To open a bank account with DBS in Singapore, you must meet certain eligibility criteria. You'll need to hold a valid work permit or employment pass, have a valid residential address, or be a student with a valid student pass.
As a foreigner, you'll also need to meet the specific eligibility criteria for the type of account you want to open. For example, to open a savings account, you'll need to meet the eligibility criteria outlined by DBS.
DBS also offers foreign currency accounts and multi-currency accounts for foreigners, but these may have additional requirements. For instance, the DBS Multi-Currency Autosave account is only available to Singaporean citizens and permanent residents.
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To open an account, you'll typically need to provide documents such as your passport and proof of employment. The account opening process can be done online or in person at a DBS branch.
Foreign entities are eligible to set up a bank account with DBS in Singapore, but they'll need to provide additional documentation, such as their certificate of incorporation, business registration, and proof of address.
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Employment and Status
To open a bank account with DBS as a foreigner, you must hold a valid work permit or employment pass in Singapore. You'll also need to have a valid residential address in the country.
If you're a student, you'll need to have a valid student pass. This is a specific requirement for students looking to open a bank account with DBS.
As a foreigner, you'll also need to provide your passport, work permit, proof of residence, and Singapore mobile number to open a DBS bank account. This is a straightforward process, but make sure you have all the necessary documents ready.
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Here's a quick rundown of the required documents:
- Passport
- Work permit or employment pass
- Proof of residence
- Singapore mobile number
DBS may also require you to provide a letter from your employer stating your salary and employment status if you hold an Employment Pass or S Pass. This is just an additional step in the process, but it's essential for verifying your employment status.
As a work permit holder, you can open a DBS bank account with a minimum deposit of $1,000. This deposit is required to activate the account and maintain its status.
Documents and Identification
To open a bank account with DBS, you'll need to provide several identification documents. You'll need your passport, work permit or employment pass, and Foreign Identification Number (FIN). You'll also need to provide your Singapore mobile number.
DBS requires you to have a SingPass account to open a bank account online. If you're a foreigner, you can apply for a SingPass account using your NRIC, passport, or national ID card.
Here's a list of the required identification documents:
- Your passport
- Your work permit or employment pass
- Your FIN (Foreign Identification Number)
- Your Singapore mobile number
Make sure to have all the necessary documents ready, and you'll be on your way to opening a bank account in Singapore as a foreigner.
Identification and Proof of Residency

To open a bank account in Singapore, you'll need to provide identification documents. Your passport is a must-have, as well as your work permit or employment pass. DBS also requires your Foreign Identification Number (FIN) and your Singapore mobile number.
DBS requires a SingPass account to open a bank account online, which can be applied for using your NRIC, passport, or national ID card.
To verify your identity, a valid passport or government-issued ID is needed. Foreigners must also provide their FIN details. Make sure the information on your ID matches the information in your application form.
You'll also need to provide proof of address, such as a utility bill or bank statement, to verify your residency status in Singapore. A utility bill must be valid and dated within the last three months.
Here's a list of the required documents:
- Passport
- Work permit or employment pass
- FIN (Foreign Identification Number)
- Singapore mobile number
- Utility bill or bank statement (dated within the last three months)
As a foreigner, it's essential to check with the bank you plan to open an account with to ensure you have all the necessary documents.
Visa Card

You can use a DBS Visa Debit Card or Credit Card for making purchases online and in-store, withdrawing cash from ATMs, and enjoying exclusive promotions and discounts.
These cards also allow you to earn cashback on your spending with some cards.
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Bank Account Options
DBS offers a range of account products for foreigners, including savings accounts, multi-currency accounts, and fixed deposit accounts.
To open a DBS account online while abroad, foreigners need a Singapore mobile number and a valid passport, as well as proof of residence and their Employment Pass, S Pass, Student Pass, or Dependent Pass.
Foreigners can open a DBS account online or in person at a DBS branch, and will need to provide certain documents such as their passport and proof of employment.
DBS has a range of multi-currency accounts available for foreigners, including the DBS Multiplier account and the POSB SAYE account, which allow you to save in multiple currencies and earn bonus interest rates.
Foreigners can also consider the DBS Multi-Currency Autosave account, which is available to Singaporean citizens and permanent residents, but allows you to save in up to 12 different currencies.
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Foreign Multi-Currency

DBS offers a range of foreign currency accounts and multi-currency accounts for foreigners. These accounts allow you to save in multiple currencies and earn bonus interest rates.
The DBS Multi-Currency Autosave account is a popular option that allows you to save in up to 12 different currencies. However, it is only available to Singaporean citizens and permanent residents.
Foreigners can still open other multi-currency accounts, such as the DBS Multiplier account or the POSB SAYE account. These accounts allow you to save in multiple currencies and earn bonus interest rates.
To open an account with DBS as a foreigner, you will need to provide certain documents, such as your passport and proof of employment. The account opening process is straightforward and can be done online or in person at a DBS branch.
DBS Remit is a service that allows you to send money overseas quickly and securely, with competitive exchange rates and low fees.
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Minimum Balance and Initial Deposit Requirements

DBS does not require an initial deposit to open an account, making it an accessible option for those just starting out.
However, to open a DBS savings account as a foreigner, you will need to make an initial deposit of at least SGD 1,000.
Additionally, you will need to maintain a minimum balance of SGD 1,000 in your account at all times.
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Application and Process
To open a DBS savings account, you'll need to locate a branch near you using the branch locator on the DBS website.
You'll need to bring your passport and proof of address to the branch.
Inform the bank staff that you would like to open a savings account, and they'll provide you with an application form to fill in your details.
The application form will require you to submit your passport and proof of address, and the staff will process your application.
Once the staff has processed your application, they'll inform you of the outcome.
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The documents required for account opening may vary depending on your nationality and the type of account you are opening. It's best to check the DBS website or contact the bank directly for more information.
To open a DBS savings account as a foreigner, you can either do it online via the Digibank app or in person at a branch.
Fees and Charges
DBS bank account opening for foreigners can come with a range of fees and charges.
As a non-resident, you can expect to pay fees for services like ATM withdrawals, foreign currency transactions, and monthly account maintenance. These fees vary depending on the type of account and services required.
DBS provides a comprehensive list of charges on its website, which includes details on charges for banking services such as fund transfers.
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Fees and Charges
DBS charges fees for international payments, which vary depending on the currency and destination country.
These fees can include inward remittance fees, cable charges, and commissions. It's essential to check with DBS directly for the most up-to-date information.
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DBS uses the mid-market exchange rate for international payments, which is typically more favourable than the rate offered by other banks or money changers. However, it's still a good idea to compare rates to ensure you're getting the best deal.
As a foreigner opening a DBS account, you may be subject to additional costs, such as service charges or account fees. DBS provides a comprehensive list of charges on its website to help you understand the fees and charges associated with your savings account.
DBS charges fees for ATM withdrawals, foreign currency transactions, and monthly account maintenance for non-resident account holders. These fees vary depending on the type of account and services required.
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Minimum Deposit and Fall Below Fees
DBS does not require an initial deposit to open an account.
However, some accounts may come with fall below fees if your balance falls below a certain threshold. For instance, the DBS Multiplier Account requires a minimum monthly average balance of $3,000, or you'll be charged a $5 fee.
You'll need to maintain a minimum balance in your account to avoid fees, but what exactly is that minimum balance? For DBS savings accounts, it's SGD 1,000.
If you're a foreigner opening a DBS savings account, you'll need to make an initial deposit of at least SGD 1,000.
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Account Management

Account management is relatively straightforward for foreigners with a DBS account. They can access their account online, making it easy to manage their finances remotely.
To open a DBS account online while abroad, foreigners will need a Singapore mobile number and a valid passport. This is a requirement for foreign nationals who want to start banking with DBS remotely.
Having a DBS account online also means that foreigners can easily transfer money, pay bills, and check their account balances from anywhere in the world.
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No Minimum Balance
DBS offers a savings account option with no minimum balance requirement, called the DBS eMulti-Currency Autosave (eMCA) account.
This account allows you to save in multiple currencies without being subject to any minimum balance requirements.
The eMCA account is only available to Singaporean citizens and permanent residents.
DBS also offers the DBS Multiplier Account, which requires a minimum monthly average balance of $3,000 to avoid a $5 fall below fee.
Some accounts may have fall below fees if your account balance falls below a certain threshold, so it's essential to check the terms and conditions of your account.
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Is It Possible to Manage an Account Abroad?

Managing an account abroad is definitely possible with DBS. You can even open an account online while abroad, which is super convenient.
To do this, you'll need a Singapore mobile number and a valid passport. Having these documents ready will make the process much smoother.
DBS also has requirements for proof of residence, which may vary depending on your situation. If you're a student, you'll need to provide your Student Pass, while if you're working, you'll need your Employment Pass.
Having a valid passport is a must, and it's good to know that DBS accepts it as a form of identification for opening an account online.
Special Cases
DBS allows foreigners to open an account online while abroad, but they must have a Singapore mobile number and a valid passport.
To open an account, foreigners will also need to provide proof of residence and their relevant pass, such as an Employment Pass, S Pass, Student Pass, or Dependent Pass, depending on their situation.
Students and Dependents

As a student or dependent in Singapore, you're likely to have a few questions about opening a DBS savings account. You're in luck because the process is relatively straightforward.
You'll need to provide your passport, student or dependent pass, and proof of address in Singapore. This is a must-have for any foreign student or dependent looking to open a DBS savings account.
DBS may also require a letter from your educational institution or sponsor stating your status and financial support. This is just a formality, but it's essential to have all the necessary documents in order.
One of the best things about opening a DBS savings account as a student or dependent is that there's no minimum balance and no monthly fees. This makes it an excellent option for anyone looking to save money in Singapore.
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Bank Account for Work Permit Holders in Singapore
As a work permit holder in Singapore, you're in luck because you can open a DBS bank account. You'll need to provide your work permit, passport, proof of residence, and Singapore mobile number.
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The minimum deposit required to initiate a savings account with DBS is $1,000, which is a small price to pay for the convenience of banking in Singapore. This deposit is required to activate the account and maintain its status.
You can open a DBS savings account by visiting a DBS branch in person with your passport and proof of address, or you can apply online if you have a Singpass. Alternatively, you can also visit a DBS branch in person with your passport and proof of address.
DBS requires foreigners to provide proof of employment and income before opening a savings account, which can be a work permit or an in-principle approval letter from the Ministry of Manpower. You'll also need to provide proof of tax residency, such as a tax return or a tax residency certificate.
As a work permit holder, you'll need to provide a letter from your employer stating your salary and employment status when opening a DBS savings account. This is a standard requirement for all foreign nationals opening a DBS account.
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DBS Bank Features

Opening a DBS bank account is a great way to manage your finances in Singapore, as it offers a range of features and benefits.
DBS has a variety of account products available to suit the needs of foreigners, including options that cater to their specific requirements.
As a foreigner, opening a bank account with DBS is a straightforward process that allows you to enjoy a range of features and benefits.
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Products
DBS Bank offers a range of account products to suit your needs, including options for foreigners looking to open a bank account in Singapore.
DBS has account products specifically designed for foreigners, making it easier for them to manage their finances in Singapore.
DBS offers a range of account products to suit different needs, including those for foreigners looking to open a bank account in Singapore.
DBS's account products for foreigners include options that cater to their unique requirements, making banking in Singapore more accessible and convenient.
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Banking Features & Benefits

DBS Bank offers a range of features and benefits that make it a great choice for foreigners in Singapore.
One of the key benefits of opening a DBS account is the ability to earn interest on your savings. With a DBS savings account, you can earn competitive interest rates that can help your money grow over time.
DBS offers a variety of account types, including NRE Accounts, which provide 3% interest on deposits and allow for 100% repatriation of deposits and interest income back to the USA.
You can also enjoy no minimum balance requirements and no fall-below fees with most DBS accounts, making it easy to manage your finances.
DBS offers a range of foreign currency accounts and multi-currency accounts, including the DBS Multi-Currency Autosave account, which allows you to save in up to 12 different currencies.
Here are some key features of DBS's foreign currency and multi-currency accounts:
DBS also offers multi-currency and FX services, including DBS Remit, which allows you to send money overseas quickly and securely with competitive exchange rates and low fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
What bank account can a foreigner open in India?
A foreigner can open an NRO (current/savings) account in India with funds remitted from abroad or by selling foreign exchange brought into the country. This type of account is suitable for non-Indian foreign nationals visiting or living in India.
Sources
- https://kaizenaire.com/sg/dbs-open-account-foreigner-singapore/
- https://www.accreditloan.com/singapore-dbs-savings-account-can-foreigners-now-open-one-too/
- https://www.uslegalforms.com/form-library/232399-dbs-bank-account-opening-form
- https://www.investasian.com/offshore-banking/singapore-bank-account-foreigner/
- https://www.dbs.com/in/treasures/en_us/nri-banking/nri-accounts/savings-accounts/nri-savings-account/nri-savings-account-from-usa
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