What Documents Do You Need to Open a Bank Account in Cyprus? (2026 Checklist)

The documents you need to open a Cyprus bank account depend on which bank you choose and whether you are a resident, non-resident, EU citizen, or non-EU citizen. This guide breaks it down clearly.

For Revolut or Wise (Online — Simplest)

You need only two things:

• ✅ Passport or national ID card
• ✅ Selfie photo (taken in-app)

That is it. No proof of address. No proof of income. No branch visit. No waiting. Open in 15 minutes from anywhere in the world.

This is why we recommend opening Revolut first, before dealing with local banks.

For a Traditional Cypriot Bank (Branch Visit Required)

Local banks require more documentation. Here is what to bring:

Essential Documents (Everyone)

• Valid passport — original, not a photocopy. Some banks also accept a national ID card for EU citizens.
• Proof of address — a utility bill (electricity, gas, water, landline — not mobile), bank statement, or official government letter. Must show your full name and address and be dated within the last 3 months.
• Tax Identification Number (TIN) from your home country — your NI number if British, your TIN if from another country.

Proof of Income / Source of Funds

Banks are required by law to verify where your money comes from. Bring one or more of:

• Recent payslips (last 3 months)
• Employment contract
• Pension statement or pension award letter
• Company accounts or financial statements (for self-employed/business owners)
• Investment account statements
• Property sale documents (if funds come from a property sale)

Additional Documents for Non-Residents

If you do not have a Cyprus address:

• Your foreign proof of address (utility bill, bank statement, etc. from your home country)
• Sometimes: a letter from your Cyprus employer or a Cyprus-based reference
• Sometimes: proof of connection to Cyprus (property ownership, employment offer, business registration)

Additional Documents for Non-EU Citizens (Including British Post-Brexit)

• Valid visa or residency permit (if applicable)
• Proof of right to work in Cyprus (if employed)
• Sometimes: employer reference letter

Bank-by-Bank Checklist

Tips for a Smooth Application

Bring originals, not copies. Banks will photocopy your documents themselves. Bringing only photocopies will result in your appointment being rescheduled.

Get documents apostilled if they’re from outside the EU. Some banks require non-EU documents to be formally authenticated (apostilled). Check with your specific branch before attending.

Translate if necessary. Documents in languages other than English or Greek may need a certified translation. English documents are accepted at all major banks.

Bring more than you think you need. It is far better to bring extra documents and not need them than to make a second trip. Bring 6 months of bank statements, 3 months of payslips, and your full employment contract even if you’re only asked for some of these.

Book an appointment. Don’t walk in cold. Call the branch or book online. Some branches have specific slots for new account openings with English-speaking staff.

Your Printable Checklist

Copy this before your bank visit:

Essential:

• Original passport (+ photocopy)
• Proof of address (dated within 3 months)
• Tax ID number from home country
• 3 months bank statements

Income evidence (bring all that apply):

• Last 3 payslips
• Employment contract
• Pension statement
• Self-employment accounts

Non-residents additionally:

• Foreign proof of address
• Cyprus connection evidence

Non-EU citizens additionally:

• Visa/residency documentation
• Employer reference

See our full guide to opening a bank account in Cyprus →

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