The short answerYes. Andre opened a BBVA account in Colombia with his US passport, without a Colombian ID card (cédula). He lists four things to bring: your passport, a statement from your US bank, proof of income or employment, and a Colombian address, which can be a hotel or Airbnb. Banks change their rules, so confirm with the branch first.
Why open a local account
Andre says frequent visitors lose real money to international ATM and transfer fees. A Colombian account lets you move money to yourself once and pay local bills without a fee on every withdrawal.
What to bring
- Your passport.
- A statement from your US bank. Andre calls this good to have rather than a must.
- Proof of income or employment, such as recent bank statements.
- A Colombian address. A hotel or Airbnb address works, he says.
Watch: How to open a bank account in Colombia with your passportAndre walks through the documents and the BBVA process. Opens on YouTube.
How it works
- Start online from the US, or go to a branch in Colombia.
- In a branch, Andre says you receive your bank card once everything is done.
- Use your own bank's ATMs. Andre says other banks' machines charge a small fee.
Before you move money: ask the bank for its current requirements, and if you plan to stay long term, ask a Colombian accountant how money you bring into the country is treated for tax. Do not rely on rules of thumb from social media.
Quick questions
Can I open the account before I arrive?
Andre says the BBVA account can be started online from the US. If you open it in a branch in Colombia, he says you leave with your card.
What if I do not speak Spanish?
Andre suggests telling the bank you do not speak Spanish so they can find someone to help, or bringing someone who can translate.
Sources
- Love Crossing Borders: How to open a bank account in Colombia with your passport
- BBVA Colombia (official site)
Shared from personal experience. Not legal, tax, immigration or medical advice.
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