Opening a bank account and getting a card in Indonesia as a foreigner

Overview

Foreigners can generally open a rupiah savings account at Indonesian banks. The documents and conditions depend on the bank, the branch and your immigration status. Some branches are stricter than the bank's published rules. Check the requirements with the specific branch before you go.

Banks to consider

• Large state and private banks such as Mandiri and BCA have the widest branch and ATM networks. BCA publishes foreigner-specific document rules on its own site. Mandiri's requirements are described in an expat community guide (see sources).
• Digital banks are often used by residents, but foreigner eligibility varies. Check the app or the bank's website before relying on one.

Documents

The core documents are described in expat guides, which are community and media sources, not bank rules:

• A valid passport.
• A valid Indonesian visa or stay permit. Some sources say this can be a tourist visa or visa on arrival. Others say a KITAS (limited stay permit) is needed. Banks differ on this, and a KITAS or KITAP (permanent stay permit) is the safest status to hold.
• BCA's site lists a KITAS or KITAP as the stay-permit document for foreign customers on at least some of its products.
• Banks may also ask for a local address, a tax number (NPWP), a phone number or proof of income or employment. Confirm which of these your branch requires.

Typical steps

1. Choose a bank and check the foreigner requirements on its website or by phone.
2. Visit a branch in person with your original passport and permit, plus copies.
3. Fill in the application form and the opening deposit. The minimum deposit depends on the product, so ask for the current amount.
4. Receive the account book or digital access and a debit card. Some branches issue the card on the spot and others later. Activate mobile or internet banking at the branch.

Common mistakes and risks

• Arriving with a permit that is about to expire. Banks may refuse, or may close the account when your status ends.
• Assuming one branch's answer applies everywhere. Staff practice varies.
• Lending your account or card to others. Accounts are monitored under Indonesian anti-money-laundering rules, and misuse can lead to account closure and legal trouble.
• Not keeping your contact details current. Banks may block dormant or unverifiable accounts.

What to check before you go

Check the current minimum deposit, monthly fees, whether a tourist visa is accepted, and whether an NPWP is required. Use the bank's official website or customer service for these.