Banking in Cuenca

by Jim
(Cuenca)

What's required by a bank to open an account as a foreigner?

Thanks.

Jim

PS I live here now in Cuenca.

*****

Hi Jim.

You'll need your passport (or your cédula, if you already have that). Note that usually you can only open a savings account if you have a passport.

You'll also need a bank reference. That's someone who banks at that institution. Best would be someone who banks at that branch. But someone using another branch should be okay.

You'll also need a personal reference. That's someone else, a person who knows you.

Finally, you'll need a utility bill with your address on it. It doesn't have to have your name on it, but that would be best. A water or gas bill won't have your name unless you own the house/condo. An internet, cable TV or satellite bill will usually have your name on it.

As a general rule of thumb, take whatever you can think of, and have photocopies of everything. That's doubly important when you're dealing with any form of government.

Jeff