What you need to bring to BPI
BPI (Bank of the Philippine Islands) requires two forms of identification and proof of address before you can open a checking account. One ID must be government-issued with your photo — a passport, driver's license, or national ID. The second can be any valid ID, including a company badge or student card. Proof of address means a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or government document showing your name and current address, dated within the last three months.
You will also need to decide on your initial deposit amount. BPI's minimum opening balance varies by account type — some checking products require 10,000 PHP, others 25,000 PHP or higher. Bring cash or a check from another bank. If you are opening the account in person, the teller will process the deposit when ready and credit it to your new account on the same day.
If you have an existing BPI savings account, bring your passbook or ATM card. BPI may waive some requirements for existing customers, though this depends on your branch and account history.
Key Takeaways
- You need one government-issued photo ID, one additional valid ID, and proof of address dated within three months to open a BPI checking account in person.
- Minimum opening deposits range from 10,000 PHP to 25,000 PHP depending on the account type you choose, so confirm the exact amount at your branch before you go.
- The entire process takes 30 to 45 minutes at the branch, and your account becomes active the same day you deposit funds.
- BPI offers online account opening for some checking products, which requires the same documents but allows you to complete the process from home.
Opening an account in person at a BPI branch
Walk into any BPI branch during business hours with your documents and initial deposit. Tell the teller you want to open a checking account. They will ask which account type you want — BPI has several checking products aimed at different needs, such as accounts with higher transaction limits, lower fees, or bundled services. Ask the teller to explain the differences if you are unsure.
The teller will fill out the account opening form with your information. You will sign it, provide your documents, and hand over your initial deposit. The teller will give you a receipt showing your new account number. Your ATM card is usually mailed to your address within 5 to 7 business days, though some branches can issue a temporary card on the spot.
Your account is active when ready after the deposit clears, which happens the same day for cash deposits. You can begin using your account number for transfers and bill payments right away, even before your physical card arrives. Ask the teller for your account number and the bank's routing code if you plan to receive transfers from other banks.
Opening an account online through BPI's website
BPI allows you to start a checking account process on its website without visiting a branch. Go to the BPI homepage, find the "Open an Account" section, and select the checking account product you want. You will upload photos of your two IDs and proof of address using your phone or computer camera. The images must be clear and show all four corners of the document.
After you submit your documents, BPI reviews them within one business day. If approved, you will receive an email with instructions to complete the account setup. You will choose a PIN, set up online banking access, and arrange your initial deposit. Most online accounts require you to transfer funds from another bank account you own, rather than depositing cash.
Once your deposit clears, your account is fully active. Your ATM card will be mailed to the address you provided. The entire online process takes two to three business days from submission to account set up, though the card itself arrives separately within 5 to 7 days.
What happens after you open the account
Your account number is yours to use when ready. You can receive salary deposits, set up automatic bill payments, and request transfers to other banks using your account details. Your ATM card, when it arrives, works at any BPI ATM and at partner ATMs nationwide. You can also withdraw cash at any BPI branch using your account number and ID.
BPI will send you a welcome package with your debit card, a checkbook (if you requested one), and information about online banking. Set up your online account access as soon as you receive the materials — this lets you monitor your balance, review transactions, and manage your account from your phone or computer. BPI's online platform is called BPI Online, and you can read the mobile app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Your first statement will arrive 30 days after your account opens. It will show all deposits, withdrawals, and fees charged during that period. Review it carefully to make sure all transactions are yours. If you see something you did not authorize, contact BPI's customer service when ready.
Fees and account maintenance
BPI checking accounts have a monthly maintenance fee that varies by account type, usually ranging from 300 PHP to 500 PHP. Some accounts waive the fee if you maintain a minimum balance — typically 50,000 PHP or higher — or if you receive a salary deposit each month. Ask the teller which fee structure applies to the account you are opening.
Other common fees include charges for excess withdrawals beyond your monthly limit, overdraft fees if you spend more than your balance, and fees for stop-payment requests on checks. ATM withdrawals at BPI machines are free, but withdrawals at partner ATMs may have small charges. Ask for a fee schedule before you open the account so you understand the full cost.
To keep your account active, you must use it at least once every 12 months. If you do not, BPI may freeze the account and charge an inactivity fee. Reactivating a frozen account is free — just visit a branch or call customer service and request that they reopen it.
If you need a checkbook
When you open your checking account, you can request a checkbook. BPI will print your name, account number, and routing code on each check. The first checkbook is usually free or included in your account opening package. Subsequent checkbooks cost between 200 PHP and 400 PHP depending on how many checks you order.
Checks take 5 to 7 business days to arrive after you request them. You can order checks through BPI Online, at any branch, or by calling customer service. Write your account number on the check stub so you can track which checks you have written. When someone deposits your check, it typically clears within two to three business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a BPI checking account if I do not have a government ID?
No. BPI requires at least one government-issued photo ID as part of its account opening process. If you do not have a passport or driver's license, you can obtain a national ID from the Philippine Statistics Authority. This process takes several weeks, so plan ahead if you need one.
What is the difference between BPI checking and savings accounts?
Checking accounts are designed for frequent transactions — you can write checks, make unlimited transfers, and withdraw cash without penalty. Savings accounts have limits on how many withdrawals you can make per month and do not include a checkbook. Checking accounts typically have higher monthly fees but more flexibility for business or active personal use.
How long does it take to receive my ATM card after opening the account?
Standard delivery takes 5 to 7 business days to your registered address. Some BPI branches can issue a temporary card when ready, which works at BPI ATMs while you wait for your permanent card. Ask the teller whether your branch offers this service.
Can I open a BPI checking account online without visiting a branch?
Yes, BPI allows online account opening for most checking products. You upload your documents through the website, and BPI reviews them within one business day. You will need to arrange your initial deposit through a transfer from another bank account you own. The entire process takes two to three business days.
What should I do if I lose my ATM card?
Call BPI customer service when ready to report the card lost or stolen. They will block it so no one else can use it. You can request a replacement card at any BPI branch or through the phone. A replacement card arrives within 5 to 7 business days. In the meantime, you can withdraw cash at any BPI branch using your account number and ID.