Bank Accounts
You can either open a bank account in Barcelona or work with your bank at home through a bank card or credit card. You can find ATMs at most banks and savings banks (cajas/caixas). In fact, "la Caixa" boasts the largest network of ATMs in Barcelona. However, check with your home bank to make sure you can use your card in Spain and under what conditions. Some ATMs don't accept a PIN of more than 4 digits, for example.
Opening a bank account in Spain is simple. You will need to show your passport to open the account and make transactions. Many foreign banks such as Barclays, Citibank, BNP and Deutsche Bank have local branches in Barcelona.
As soon as you get your student resident card (NIE), it is advisable to change your account from non-resident to resident status to save in bank charges. You will also save yourself some hassle if you receive transfers larger than 2,700 euro, as current legislation requires thorough reference checks that may take as long as six weeks to clear.
There are two bank offices at the UPF Campus that cater to students: Banco Santander and Caixa Catalunya. You will find three banking options inside Bellaterra Campus: Banco Santander Central Hispano at Technical Engineering School, "la Caixa" at the Rectorate Building and Caixa Catalunya at Plaça Cívica.
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