How To Open An Offshore Bank Account Online

by World Offshore Banks

Most offshore banks allow you to open an account online without the need to personally visit the jurisdiction of your choice.

To open an offshore multi-currency bank account online, most banks will require the following documents for both personal and corporate accounts:

For a personal account, you will need:
1. A completed and signed application form (usually found online).

2. A due diligence form.

3. An online banking form.

4. A certified/notarized copy of a valid passport.

5. An original utility bill (electric, telephone, etc.) issued within the last three months.

6. An original personal bank reference, issued on the bank's official letterhead. The letter should include the account holder’s name, account type, date the account was opened, how the account is conducted, and whether the account is in good standing.

7. An official letter of reference from a certified accountant or lawyer who has known you professionally for at least two years.

8. Some banks may require an initial deposit.

For a corporate account, you will need:
1. A completed and signed application form (usually found online). It must be signed by authorized signatories to the account.

2. A due diligence form.

3. An online banking form.

4. Director and shareholder declaration forms.

5. A certified/notarized copy of a valid passport for each authorized signatory to the account, director, and beneficial owner.

6. An original utility bill (electric, telephone, etc.) for each beneficial owner, director, and signatory, issued within the last three months.

7. An original personal bank reference, issued on the bank's official letterhead for each beneficial owner, director, and signatory. The letter should include the name of the account, account type, date the account was opened, how the account is conducted, and whether the account is in good standing.

8. An official letter of reference from a certified accountant or lawyer for each beneficial owner, director, and signatory. This must be on official letterhead and based on a professional relationship of at least two years.

Company documents you will need:
1. A certified copy of the Certificate of Incorporation.

2. Certified Articles and Memorandum of Association.

3. A certified copy of the Share Register.

4. A certified copy of the Corporate Resolution of the Appointment of Directors, and the Register of Directors.

5. AA Certificate of Good Standing (only if the company is 12 months old or more).

Some banks may require additional documents, and each customer is evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

You will need to sign additional documents if you require debit or credit cards and other services.

While the process may seem tedious, most banks will assign a representative to help you complete it quickly.

The time it takes to open an account usually depends on the submission and verification of required documents by the bank.