Yes, but the process depends on your residency status and which bank you choose
You can open a bank account in Israel as a foreigner, but Israeli banks treat residents and non-residents differently. If you have an Israeli ID number (which requires residency), the process is straightforward. If you don't, most major banks will still open an account for you, but you'll need to visit a branch in person, bring specific documents, and expect the process to take longer and sometimes cost more.
The two main paths are: open an account as a resident (if you have a visa that grants residency status) or as a non-resident (if you're visiting or working on a temporary visa). Non-resident accounts exist, but not all banks offer them, and some charge monthly maintenance fees that resident accounts don't.
Key Takeaways
- Israeli banks require either an Israeli ID number (for residents) or a passport plus proof of address to open an account as a non-resident.
- You must visit a branch in person; no Israeli bank allows you to open an account entirely online if you don't already have residency status.
- The major banks—Bank Leumi, Bank Hapoalim, Bank Mizrahi-Tefahot, and Discount Bank—all accept non-residents, but fees and account features vary.
- Non-resident accounts may carry monthly fees (typically 20–50 Israeli new sheqels per month) and may not include overdraft or credit card options.
- If you plan to stay longer than a few months, applying for residency status through the Interior Ministry makes banking simpler and cheaper.
What documents you need to bring to the bank
For a resident account, bring your Israeli ID number, proof of address (a utility bill or rental agreement), and a valid passport. Most banks also ask for a phone number and email address.
For a non-resident account, bring your passport, proof of address (this can be from your home country or a hotel booking confirmation if you're staying in Israel), and proof of income or employment (a letter from your employer, a contract, or recent pay stubs). Some banks also ask for a reference from another bank you use in your home country. Call the branch ahead of time to confirm what they need; requirements vary slightly between banks and sometimes between branches of the same bank.
If your documents are not in Hebrew or English, bring the originals plus Hebrew or English translations. The bank will not translate them for you.
Which banks accept non-residents and what they charge
All four major banks—Bank Leumi, Bank Hapoalim, Bank Mizrahi-Tefahot, and Discount Bank—accept non-resident accounts. Smaller banks and credit unions (called amutot in Hebrew) may also offer them, but they are harder to find and often require a local sponsor.
Non-resident accounts typically cost 25–50 new sheqels per month in maintenance fees. Some banks waive the fee if you maintain a minimum balance (usually 5,000–10,000 new sheqels) or if you set up a regular deposit. Resident accounts are usually free or cost 10–20 new sheqels per month depending on the bank and account tier.
Non-resident accounts usually come with a debit card and online banking access, but credit cards, overdraft, and loans are rarely available unless you later obtain residency status. Check with the specific branch about what services they offer; policies differ.
How long the process takes and what happens next
Opening the account itself takes 30 minutes to an hour at the branch. The bank will ask you to sign forms, verify your identity, and provide contact information. You'll receive a temporary debit card on the spot or within a few days, and online banking access usually activates within 24 hours.
However, the bank may place a hold on certain transactions (like international transfers) for 5–10 business days while they verify your information. This is normal and does not mean there is a problem with your account.
Once your account is open, you can deposit money via bank transfer, cash deposit at a branch, or (with some banks) through ATMs. Withdrawing money works the same way as in any other country: debit card at ATMs, checks (though checks are less common in Israel), or bank transfers.
Opening an account if you're on a work visa or student visa
If you're in Israel on a work visa or student visa, you may be may be able to access for residency status, which makes banking much simpler. Contact the Interior Ministry's Population and Immigration Authority to learn whether your visa grants residency. If it does, you can obtain an Israeli ID number, and then open a resident account at any bank without the non-resident fees and restrictions.
The process of obtaining an ID number takes several weeks and requires an appointment at the Interior Ministry office. Bring your passport, visa, proof of address in Israel, and a completed form (available on the Interior Ministry website). If your visa does not grant residency, you'll need to open a non-resident account instead.
Some employers and universities help their workers and students with this process, so ask your employer or school first.
International transfers and moving money in and out
You can receive money from abroad into your Israeli bank account via SWIFT transfer (international wire transfer). Provide the sender with your bank's SWIFT code, your account number, and your name exactly as it appears on your account. Transfers typically arrive within 3–5 business days, though some banks hold the money for verification.
Sending money out of Israel works the same way: your bank can initiate a SWIFT transfer to any bank in the world. Fees vary by bank but typically range from 50–150 new sheqels per transfer, plus the receiving bank's fees. Non-resident accounts sometimes have lower limits on outgoing transfers (for example, 50,000 new sheqels per month), so check with your bank.
Some people use digital payment services like Wise (formerly TransferWise) or Payoneer to move money more cheaply, but these services require a valid Israeli bank account to receive the funds, so you'll still need to open one first.
What to do if a bank refuses to open an account for you
If a major bank turns you down, ask why. Common reasons include: you don't have proof of address, your documents are not in Hebrew or English, or the bank's compliance team flagged your country of origin for additional review (this happens occasionally and is not personal). Ask what additional documents or information would help, and provide them if you can.
If one bank refuses, try another. Bank policies differ, and a branch manager sometimes has discretion to override a standard policy. Smaller banks and credit unions are sometimes more flexible with non-residents, though they may charge higher fees.
If you plan to stay in Israel for more than a few months, the fastest path forward is to apply for residency status through the Interior Ministry. Once you have an Israeli ID number, every bank will open an account for you without question.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an Israeli phone number to open a bank account?
No, but the bank will ask for a phone number where they can reach you. You can use your home country number, though the bank may ask you to provide an Israeli number later (you can get a prepaid SIM card at any phone shop for 20–50 new sheqels). Some banks send security codes via SMS, so having a working phone number is important for online banking.
Can I open an account online without visiting a branch?
Not as a non-resident. All Israeli banks require you to visit a branch in person to verify your identity and sign documents. Residents can sometimes open accounts online or via video call, but this varies by bank.
What if I'm only staying in Israel for a few weeks?
You can still open a non-resident account, but the monthly fee may not be worth it for a short stay. Ask the bank whether they offer a temporary account or waive fees for short-term visitors. Alternatively, you can use your home country debit card at Israeli ATMs, though you'll pay foreign transaction fees.
Can I open a business account as a foreigner?
Yes, but it's more complicated than a personal account. You'll need to register your business with the Israeli tax authority (Mas Hachnasot), obtain a business tax ID, and provide additional documents like articles of incorporation or a partnership agreement. The process takes several weeks. Consult a local accountant or business lawyer before starting.
What happens to my account if I leave Israel?
Your account remains open and active. You can continue to use it for transfers and deposits from abroad. However, if you don't use the account for several years, the bank may close it or freeze it for inactivity. Check your bank's policy on dormant accounts.