Opening a bank account in Sweden
On this page, you will find helpful tips and general guidelines on how to go about to open a bank account in Sweden as an international student.
Might be tricky and time-consuming
Due to strict regulations and security aspects, it can be tricky for international students to open a bank account in Sweden. Banks are required to carry out a stringent check of customer identity. On top of that, every bank has its own rules, so the information on this page should be seen as a guideline and not as a rule.
However, it is possible to open a bank account – as long as you prepare well and are aware of the fact that it can take time. Before going to a bank, you should read Becoming a bank customer in Sweden on the Swedish Bankers' Association's website.
Having a Swedish personal identity number (personnummer)
If you have a Swedish personal identity number and a Swedish ID card, it will be easier to open a bank account. Please note that it can take a few weeks before you receive your personal identity number and you should have it before you open a bank account.
To open a bank account, prepare the following documentation
- A valid passport.
- Your residence permit (if applicable)
- Proof of your admission to KI, also showing the duration of your studies
- Your Swedish home address
- A birth certificate from the Swedish Tax Agency showing your Swedish personal identity number (if you have one)
Good to know
- Swedish banks have limited opening hours, most of them require that you book an appointment in order to open a bank account. Book a time once you know that you have all the documents that are required to open a bank account.
- Swedish banks charge a fee for their offers and services, so you need to do some research to see what the banks offer to match your needs and budget.
- Moving within Stockholm is not unusual for any student. Always keep your bank informed with your correct home address
- If you move from Sweden, close your Swedish bank account before you leave. This is easiest done at the same office where you opened it. Some students forget to close their bank account but keep in mind that you will still pay for the bank’s services for as long as the account exists.