Yes, you can open a BPI savings account online, but the process requires you to visit a branch or ATM at some point
BPI (Bank of the Philippine Islands) lets you start a savings account through their website or mobile app, but you cannot complete it entirely online. You will need to verify your identity in person at a BPI branch or use their ATM network to finish the account setup. The online part takes about 10 to 15 minutes; the in-person verification usually takes another 10 to 20 minutes on the same day or within a few days.
This hybrid process exists because Philippine banking regulations require identity verification before an account becomes active. BPI cannot legally hand you a fully functional account without confirming who you are face-to-face or through their ATM system.
Key Takeaways
- You can start the account opening process online through BPI's website or the BPI mobile app, but you must complete identity verification at a branch or ATM.
- You will need a valid government-issued ID (passport, driver's license, or national ID), your Social Security number or tax ID, and proof of address to open an account.
- The entire process from online process to active account typically takes one to three business days if you verify in person the same day.
- BPI savings accounts have no minimum opening deposit, though some account types may require a small balance to avoid monthly maintenance fees.
What you need before you start online
Gather these documents before you open your browser. You will upload or reference them during the online process:
- A valid government-issued ID (Philippine passport, driver's license, national ID, or PRC professional license)
- Your Social Security System (SSS) number or Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- Proof of your current address (utility bill, rental agreement, or government-issued document dated within the last three months)
- Your mobile phone number and email address
If you do not have an SSS or TIN number yet, you can still open an account, but BPI will ask you to provide one within 30 days of account set up. You can obtain an SSS number through the SSS website or a local branch; a TIN comes from the Bureau of Internal Revenue.
The online process steps
Visit BPI's official website (bpi.com.ph) or read the BPI mobile app from Google Play or the Apple App Store. Look for the "Open an Account" or "New Account" option on the homepage.
The app will ask you to choose your account type. BPI offers several savings products: the basic Savings Account, the BPI Save account (which may have interest-bearing features), and specialty accounts for students or seniors. Select the one that matches your needs. If you are unsure, the basic Savings Account works for most people.
Fill in your personal information: full name, date of birth, mobile number, email, and address. Upload clear photos of your ID (front and back) and your proof of address. The system will ask you to create a username and password for online banking access. Make sure your password is at least 8 characters and includes numbers and letters.
Review the terms and conditions, then submit. You will receive a confirmation message with a reference number. Save this number—you will need it when you verify your identity in person.
Completing verification at a BPI branch or ATM
Within one to three business days, you must visit a BPI branch or ATM to complete identity verification. Bring your original government-issued ID and your reference number from the online process.
At a branch, a teller will scan your ID, confirm your details match what you entered online, and set up your account on the spot. This usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. You will walk out with your account number and can begin using online banking when ready.
If you use a BPI ATM instead, insert your ID into the machine (some ATMs have a card reader for this purpose), enter your reference number, and follow the prompts to complete verification. Not all BPI ATMs support this feature, so call BPI's customer service at 1-800-1-888-BPI (1-800-1-888-274) to find an ATM near you that does.
Once verified, your account is active. You can transfer money to it, set up automatic deposits, and use BPI's online banking platform or mobile app to check your balance and make transactions.
Account types and what they cost
BPI's basic Savings Account has no minimum opening deposit and no monthly maintenance fee if you maintain a small balance (the exact amount varies, so confirm with BPI at the time you open). If your balance falls below that threshold, you may be charged a monthly fee of around 100 to 150 Philippine pesos, though this is waived in some months or for certain account holders.
Interest rates on savings accounts change with market conditions. As of recent years, BPI savings accounts earn interest rates between 0.25% and 1% annually, depending on your balance and the specific account type. Check BPI's website for current rates before you open.
Some specialty accounts—such as the BPI Save account or accounts for students—may have different fee structures or higher interest rates. Compare these options during your online process to see which suits your situation.
What happens after your account is active
Once verified, you can log into BPI Online or the BPI mobile app using the username and password you created. You will see your account number, current balance, and transaction history. You can transfer money from another bank account into your new BPI account using the account number and routing information BPI provides.
If you want a debit card linked to your savings account, you can request one through the app or at a branch. BPI will mail it to your address within 5 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can still access your money through online transfers, ATM withdrawals (once you set up a PIN), or in-person withdrawals at a branch.
Set up a PIN at a BPI ATM as soon as your account is active. This PIN lets you withdraw cash and check your balance at any BPI ATM without a physical card.
Common reasons the online process gets rejected
Your process may be declined if your ID photo is blurry, cut off, or does not match your face clearly. Resubmit with a clearer image. If your proof of address is older than three months or does not show your current address, upload a newer document.
Mismatched information—such as spelling your name differently on your ID versus your process—can also cause rejection. Make sure every field matches your government-issued ID exactly, including middle names and suffixes.
If BPI cannot verify your identity through their system (for example, if your ID is not yet in their database), they may ask you to visit a branch in person instead of using the ATM verification route. This is not a rejection; it straightforward means you need the extra step.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to open a BPI savings account online?
The online process itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. Identity verification at a branch or ATM takes another 10 to 20 minutes. If you complete both on the same day, your account is active within hours. If you verify a few days later, the total time is one to three business days.
Do I need a minimum deposit to open a BPI savings account?
No minimum opening deposit is required. However, BPI may charge a monthly maintenance fee if your balance falls below a certain threshold (typically a few hundred pesos). Confirm the exact amount when you open your account.
Can I open a BPI account if I do not have an SSS or TIN number?
Yes. You can open an account without one, but BPI will ask you to provide an SSS number or TIN within 30 days. You can obtain an SSS number through the SSS website or a local branch; a TIN comes from the Bureau of Internal Revenue.
What if I cannot visit a BPI branch or ATM to verify my identity?
Contact BPI customer service at 1-800-1-888-BPI to discuss alternatives. In some cases, BPI may allow verification through video call or other remote methods, though this depends on your location and account type. Standard policy requires in-person verification, but exceptions exist.
Can I use my BPI savings account for direct deposits from my employer?
Yes. Once your account is active, provide your employer with your BPI account number and the bank's routing information. Direct deposits typically process within one to two business days of your employer's payroll run.