Opening a Bank Account in Singapore as a Non-Resident
Banks known to accept non-residents: Pictet, Bordier, Julius Baer, UBS, DBS Private Bank. Availability changes — confirm current policy directly with the bank before travelling or wiring funds.
| Minimum deposit | No minimum at digital alternatives (Wise, Aspire, Airwallex); up to SGD 5,000 at retail banks (rarely realistic for pure non-residents); private banks set their own thresholds |
|---|---|
| Remote opening | Possible at some institutions — see note below |
| Typical timeline | 3–6 weeks at private banks with a properly assembled document package |
Remote opening in detail
Retail banks (DBS/OCBC/UOB) are not realistic for pure non-residents — remote opening is off the table there. Private banks (Pictet, Bordier, Julius Baer, UBS, DBS Private) offer remote opening via secure video conference as standard practice.
Documents you'll need
- Valid passport
- Proof of address
- Business/income justification
- Tax residency declaration (CRS compliance)
Is Singapore CRS-Compliant?
Singapore participates in the OECD Common Reporting Standard — your account details can be exchanged with your country of tax residence. Check the exact exchange status on our sister site's live CRS/FATCA jurisdiction checker.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a non-resident open a bank account in Singapore?
Retail banks (DBS/OCBC/UOB) are not realistic for pure non-residents — remote opening is off the table there. Private banks (Pictet, Bordier, Julius Baer, UBS, DBS Private) offer remote opening via secure video conference as standard practice.
What is the minimum deposit for a non-resident account in Singapore?
No minimum at digital alternatives (Wise, Aspire, Airwallex); up to SGD 5,000 at retail banks (rarely realistic for pure non-residents); private banks set their own thresholds
How long does it take to open a bank account in Singapore as a non-resident?
3–6 weeks at private banks with a properly assembled document package
Sources, last verified 2026-09-29:
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