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    Can foreigners open a bank account in Finland?

    The right to a basic account and what the bank may ask for.

    Answered at: Checked at:

    Short answer

    Yes. Under the Finnish Credit Institutions Act, deposit banks must offer basic banking services to consumers who are legally resident in the EU or EEA. The Financial Supervisory Authority says a Finnish personal identity code cannot be a condition for opening the account. The bank must still check your identity and may ask about the purpose of the account.

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    Why

    1. The right to basic banking services comes from the Credit Institutions Act (610/2014).
    2. FIN-FSA says a Finnish personal identity code cannot be required for a basic account.
    3. Info Norden explains the documents banks usually ask newcomers for.

    Details

    Banks usually ask for a valid passport or ID card and details of where you live and work or study. Know-your-customer checks can take time, so book an appointment early.

    Tip

    Ask the bank for a list of the documents it needs before your visit. It saves a second trip.

    What may differ

    Online banking codes and some services may need a Finnish identity code or a Finnish ID card. Each bank has its own practice.

    Common misconception

    You cannot open a bank account in Finland without a Finnish identity code.

    What actually happens

    FIN-FSA says the identity code cannot be a condition for basic banking services.

    People also ask

    • What is included in a basic bank account in Finland?
    • Can tourists use MobilePay?
    • How do I get a Finnish personal identity code?

    Sources

    This answer is for reference only. Banks set their own terms, so check the details with the bank before you act.

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