Back to Menu
Back to Menu
Back to Menu
Back to Menu
Back to Menu
Back to Menu

Singapore banking is very different than other banking systems around the World. Singapore’s low tax rates certainly appeal to anyone looking to move to Singapore and save some money.

Singapore banking serves high net worth individuals and affluent families in its main markets in Asia, Greater China, the Indian Subcontinent and other international markets.

How Can I Open A Bank Account

Opening an account as a foreigner can be difficult as there are laws focused on stopping money laundering.

If you work in Singapore and you are over 18, the process is very simple. Most banks require you to come directly to the location to open an account.

Depending on the amount of regular travel and currency conversions, you may need accounts in multiple currencies. Singapore banking can provide these solutions.

As A Singapore Citizen

• You must be at least 18 years old.

• The balance ranges from SGD 500 to SGD 3,000.

• If your account does not have an average daily balance, you may be fined below price.

As A Foreigner

Even if you are a foreigner or do not reside in Singapore, you can open a bank account. Additional paperwork is required.

Required documents vary from bank to bank. You need:

• ID

• Address certificate

• Work visa, S pass or student visa

• Some banks may also require a reference or an invitation.

You may also need a lease, a letter from your employer, and an inquiry from your local bank.

As A Malaysian Citizen

Malaysia shares special privileges with Singapore because of its proximity and history.

These accounts can hold multiple currency sources without paying huge conversion fees.

How To Do Online Banking in Singapore

• You can also open a multi-currency online bank account.

• This eliminates the need to change currencies or pay large fees.

• It may be easier to open an online Singapore banking account.

Singapore Tax

Singapore is all about dealing with taxes fairly and foreigners have several benefits.

If you stay or work in Singapore for less than 60 days, you do not have to pay taxes.

If you work between 61 and 182 days, you are typically charged 15%.

Explaining How To Open A Bank Account İn Singapore

Check the type of account you need, the various fees and deposits, and the documents you need to present.

Like most offshore bank jurisdictions, Singapore’s offshore banks operate under low or non-tax laws.

Singapore banking charges are relatively low compared to Caribbean countries.

Under current Singapore offshore banking law, bank officials or representatives who have access to offshore banking records have a contractual obligation of confidentiality under Article 47 of the Banking Act.

This provides Singapore banking secrecy.

Singapore’s offshore banks often accept offshore companies from other jurisdictions through referrals from intermediaries, but companies need to provide strong business plans and legitimacy.

Having an Offshore Bank Account

While having an offshore bank account has its advantages, it is essential to have a good understanding of your business.

There are many banks around the world that have banking licenses.

Get expert advice on Singapore banking.

About Singapour Banking

Singapour banking was established on 29 January 2010 with the acquisition of ING Asia Private Bank.

The Bank of Singapore Center on Market Street was officially opened in June 2011.

In April 2016, OCBC Bank announced that its private banking subsidiary, Bank of Singapore, had acquired the wealth and investment management business of Barclays in Singapore and Hong Kong.

The transaction was completed in November 2016 and USD 13 billion of assets were transferred to Bank of Singapore.

List Of Singapour Banks

Currently, commercial banks and government banks with representative offices operate in Singapore.

Some well known Singapour banks:

• UOB
• Citibank
• Maybank
• Standard Chartered
• SBI
• Bangkok Bank
• CIMB Bank
• DBS

Visitor or tourist options:

• DBS offers applicants a multi-currency account option.

• OCBC Bank may require a Singapore resident to meet conditions.

• UOB Bank may require attendance in person at a branch.

Opening A International Bank Account In Singapore

Things to bring before applying:

• Certificate Confirming the Establishment of the Company (ACRA form)
• Work Profile
• Pay Shares Document
• Tax number (Tin code)
• ID cards of all members
• Original electricity bill or water bill as proof of residence
• Bank Statements for the Last 6 Months
• Related Certificate
• Resume

Singapore banking companies can open accounts in local banks, international banks, and offshore banks.

The procedure for opening a bank account is simplified and straightforward.

About Singapour Central Bank

DBS Bank is a Singapore-based bank established in July 1968.

DBS Bank is Southeast Asia’s largest bank in assets.

In 2018, the banking was named the best bank in the world by Global Finance.

What Is The Best Bank In Singapour?

Singapour is an international financial center whose government implements pro-business policies.

More than 200 banks operate in Singapour.

Singapore Development Bank (DBS) is the largest bank in Southeast Asia.

United Overseas Bank offers commercial and personal banking products and services.

Standard Chartered Bank operates with over branches in many countries.

logo
We Build Trust, Not Just Businesses
Personalized Banking Recommendation

Discover the Right Bank for Your Business

Forget complicated processes. We match the best banking solution for your company in seconds using our AI-powered algorithm.

Free consultation No obligation Expert guidance

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, foreigners can open a Singapore bank account, usually with ID, proof of address, visa or pass documents, and additional bank requirements.

Popular banks in Singapore include DBS, UOB, OCBC, Standard Chartered, Citibank, Maybank, and CIMB Bank.
Onur Gece

Onur Gece

Company Formation Cross-Border Banking Digital Banking Compliance (KYC/AML/EDD) Offshore Structuring Global Expansion Dual-Rail Banking Strategies Fintech & EMIs

I am the Managing Director of Lion Business Co., a global corporate services and banking advisory firm specializing in cross-border company formation, multi-jurisdictional banking, and compliance-driven expansion strategies. With extensive experience across Hong Kong, Singapore, the EU, UAE, and offshore jurisdictions, I have guided hundreds of entrepreneurs, SMEs, and high-growth companies through complex KYC/AML processes, tax structuring, and bank account approvals. Known for my deep understanding of high-risk sectors—including logistics, trading, e-commerce, shipping, and fintech—I simplify global expansion through bank-ready documentation, dual-rail banking strategies, and expert compliance insights. I currently lead Lion Business Co.’s international operations and advisory programs.

Need expert guidance on this topic? We are here to help.

Consultation / Contact