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 savings account. One ID must be government-issued with your photo — a passport, driver's license, or national ID card. The second can be any valid ID, including a company badge or student card.

For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or government-issued document showing your current address. The document must be dated within the last three months. If you don't have one, some branches accept a barangay certification or a letter from your employer on company letterhead.

You'll also need your Tax Identification Number (TIN). If you don't have one yet, BPI can help you explore for it during account opening, though this adds time to the process. Bring your birth certificate or any document showing your full legal name.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring a government-issued photo ID, a second valid ID, and proof of address dated within three months to any BPI branch.
  • You need your TIN, but BPI can file the process for you if you don't have one yet — this extends the opening process by a few days.
  • The minimum opening deposit varies by account type, so ask the teller which savings product fits your deposit amount before you hand over money.
  • The entire process takes 15 to 30 minutes if your documents are in order and you already have a TIN.
  • BPI will issue you a debit card and passbook on the same day, though the card may take a few days to set up for online use.

Steps to complete at the branch

Walk into any BPI branch during business hours and go to the new accounts desk. Tell the teller you want to open a savings account. They will ask which type — BPI has several, including BPI Savings Account (the standard option) and BPI Youth Savings Account (if you're under 18). Ask about the minimum opening deposit for each, as it varies.

The teller will hand you a signature card and an account opening form. Fill in your full legal name exactly as it appears on your ID, your address, your phone number, and your TIN. Sign both documents in front of the teller. They will photocopy your IDs and proof of address, then file the copies with your forms.

Hand over your opening deposit. BPI accepts cash or a check from another bank. The teller will count the money, issue you a receipt, and give you a temporary account number on the spot. Your passbook will be printed while you wait, usually within 10 minutes.

What happens after you leave the branch

Your account is active the same day. You can deposit and withdraw money when ready using your passbook at any BPI branch. Your debit card will be mailed to the address you provided, usually within 5 to 7 business days.

The debit card arrives inactive. When it arrives, you must set up it by calling the number on the card or visiting a BPI branch. Once activated, you can use it at ATMs and online. Online banking access (BPI Online) is set up separately — the teller will give you instructions and a temporary password during account opening, or you can set it up later at any branch.

If you applied for a TIN during account opening, BPI will submit your process to the Bureau of Internal Revenue. You'll receive your TIN by mail within two to three weeks. Until then, you can still use your account — the TIN is mainly needed for tax purposes and larger transactions.

Minimum deposit amounts and account types

BPI Savings Account requires a minimum opening deposit of 1,000 pesos. This is the standard account for most people. BPI Youth Savings Account (for ages 7 to 17) requires 500 pesos and comes with parental consent requirements.

If you want to open an account with less than 1,000 pesos, ask the teller about BPI Savings Account with a lower opening deposit, which may be available during promotional periods. Rates and minimums change, so confirm the current requirement before you hand over money.

If you don't have a TIN yet

Tell the teller during account opening that you need to explore for a TIN. They will fill out the BIR Form 1901-A (process for Registration) and submit it on your behalf. You don't need to go to the Bureau of Internal Revenue yourself.

The process takes longer — expect your account to be fully set up within 3 to 5 business days instead of the same day. You'll receive your TIN by mail. In the meantime, your account works normally for deposits and withdrawals.

Online and mobile banking setup

BPI Online is the bank's internet banking platform. During account opening, the teller will give you a temporary username and password. Log in at bpi.com.ph, go to the login page, and follow the prompts to set a permanent password.

BPI Mobile is the smartphone app. read it from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, then log in with the same credentials you use for BPI Online. You can transfer money between your own accounts, pay bills, and check your balance without visiting a branch.

If you didn't set up online banking during account opening, visit any BPI branch and ask the teller to set up it. This takes a few minutes and requires your ID and passbook.

What to do if documents are missing or incomplete

If your proof of address is older than three months, the teller may still accept it if it's the only document you have. Ask — policies vary by branch. If you have no proof of address at all, bring a barangay certification (available from your barangay hall for a small fee) or a notarized letter from your employer.

If you don't have a second ID, some branches will accept a photocopy of your first ID plus a barangay certification. Call your nearest BPI branch before you go to confirm what they'll accept, as requirements can differ slightly between locations.

If your name on your ID doesn't match your legal name exactly (for example, a nickname on one document and your full name on another), bring your birth certificate or marriage certificate to explain the difference. The teller will note this on your file.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a BPI savings account online without visiting a branch?

No. BPI requires you to open a savings account in person at a branch with original identification documents. You cannot open one through the website or app. However, once your account is open, you can manage it entirely online.

What's the difference between BPI Savings Account and BPI Savings Account with Relationship Pricing?

Relationship Pricing accounts offer higher interest rates if you maintain a larger balance or have other products with BPI (like a credit card or loan). Ask the teller which accounts are available and what the current interest rates are — they change regularly.

Do I need to be a Philippine citizen to open an account?

No. Foreign nationals can open a BPI savings account with a valid passport and proof of address. Some branches may ask for additional documents like a visa or work permit. Call ahead to confirm what your branch requires.

How long does it take to receive my debit card?

Standard delivery is 5 to 7 business days to the address you provided. If you need it faster, ask the teller about rush delivery options, which may be available for an additional fee.

Can I change my account type after opening?

Yes. Visit any BPI branch with your passbook and ID, and the teller can convert your account to a different savings product. This usually takes a few minutes and doesn't require a new opening deposit.