What you need to open a BPI savings account
BPI (Bank of the Philippine Islands) offers several savings account types, each with different opening requirements. The most common option for individual savers is the BPI Savings Account, which requires a minimum opening deposit that varies by account type — typically between ₱1,000 and ₱10,000 depending on whether you choose a regular or high-yield variant.
To open an account in person at a BPI branch, bring a valid government-issued ID (passport, driver's license, national ID, or PRC license), proof of billing address (utility bill or bank statement dated within the last three months), and your opening deposit in cash or check. If you are opening an account for a minor, a parent or legal guardian must be present with their own ID and the child's birth certificate.
BPI also offers online account opening through its website and mobile app for certain account types, which requires the same identity verification but can be completed from home. The online process typically takes 15 to 30 minutes and generates your account number immediately, though full activation may take one to two business days.
Key Takeaways
- BPI Savings Accounts require a minimum opening deposit between ₱1,000 and ₱10,000, depending on the account type you choose.
- You can open an account in person at any BPI branch with a valid ID, proof of address, and your opening deposit.
- Online account opening is available through the BPI website or mobile app and takes 15 to 30 minutes to complete.
- Your account number is generated immediately upon online opening, but full activation and card issuance may take one to two business days.
- Monthly maintenance fees vary by account type and balance; some accounts waive fees if you maintain a minimum balance.
Opening an account at a BPI branch in person
Walk into any BPI branch during business hours with your required documents and opening deposit. Tell the teller or account officer you want to open a savings account. They will ask you to fill out an account opening form (BPI Form 001 or similar, depending on the branch) with your personal information, contact details, and initial deposit amount.
The teller will verify your ID, check your proof of address, and process your opening deposit. This takes 10 to 20 minutes. You will receive a temporary account number on the spot, and your passbook or debit card will be issued within one to three business days — the branch will call you when it is ready for pickup, or it may be mailed to your address on file.
If you are opening a joint account, both account holders must be present with their own IDs and proof of address. BPI will ask you to specify who can withdraw funds and whether both signatures are required for withdrawals above a certain amount.
Opening an account online through BPI's website or app
Download the BPI mobile app or visit bpi.com.ph and select "Open an Account" or "New Account." The online process asks for your personal information, contact details, and a photo of your valid ID. You will need to take a selfie for identity verification — BPI uses facial recognition to match your photo ID to your face.
After submitting your information, BPI will send you a one-time password (OTP) via SMS to verify your phone number. Once verified, your account is created and you receive an account number immediately. You can begin using your account for online transfers and bill payments right away, though your physical debit card will arrive by mail within five to seven business days.
The minimum opening deposit for online accounts is typically ₱1,000, which you transfer from another bank account or pay through BPI's partner payment channels. Some online account types do not require an opening deposit at all, though you must fund the account within 30 days of opening or it will be closed.
Account types and their minimum balances
BPI offers several savings account variants, each with different minimum opening deposits and monthly maintenance fees. The BPI Savings Account (regular) typically requires ₱1,000 to open and has a monthly maintenance fee of ₱150, which is waived if you maintain a minimum balance of ₱5,000. The BPI High-Yield Savings Account requires a higher opening deposit (often ₱10,000 or more) but offers better interest rates and may have lower or no maintenance fees depending on your balance.
BPI also offers specialized accounts such as the BPI Youth Savings Account for minors (ages 7 to 17), which has a lower opening deposit and no monthly maintenance fee. Student accounts and senior citizen accounts have their own fee structures and benefits. Ask the branch officer or check the BPI website for the current rates and requirements, as these change periodically.
If you do not maintain the minimum balance, you will be charged the monthly maintenance fee. Some accounts allow you to waive the fee by setting up automatic transfers or maintaining a certain number of transactions per month — ask about this when you open your account.
What happens after you open your account
Once your account is open, you can deposit money through any BPI ATM, at a teller window, or via online transfer from another bank. Your account number and routing information will be provided in your welcome materials or displayed in the BPI app. You can begin receiving salary deposits, pension payments, or transfers from other people immediately.
Your debit card will arrive by mail within five to seven business days (or one to three days if you picked it up at the branch). Activate it by calling the number on the back of the card or through the BPI app. Once activated, you can withdraw cash at any BPI ATM, make purchases at merchants that accept BPI cards, and transfer money online.
BPI will send you a monthly statement by email or mail, depending on your preference. You can also check your balance and transaction history anytime through the BPI app or by calling the BPI customer service line at 1-800-1-888-BPI (1-800-1-888-274).
Documents you need for each opening method
| Opening Method | Required Documents | Time to Complete |
|---|---|---|
| In-person at branch | Valid government ID, proof of address, opening deposit in cash or check | 10–20 minutes |
| Online via website or app | Valid government ID (photo), selfie for verification, phone number for OTP | 15–30 minutes |
| For minors (in-person) | Parent/guardian ID, child's birth certificate, proof of address, opening deposit | 15–25 minutes |
Common reasons your account opening may be delayed
If you open an account online, BPI may place a hold on your account while it verifies your identity — this is standard anti-fraud procedure and typically resolves within one to two business days. If BPI cannot verify your identity through the app, they may ask you to visit a branch in person with your original ID.
If you submit an opening deposit by check, the check must clear before your account is fully activated. This takes three to five business days. If the check bounces, BPI will close the account and return your documents.
If you do not fund your online account within 30 days of opening, BPI will close it automatically. If this happens, you can reopen the account by visiting a branch or submitting a new online application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a BPI savings account without going to a branch?
Yes. BPI allows online account opening through its website and mobile app for most account types. You will need a valid ID, a selfie for verification, and a phone number to receive a one-time password. Your account is created immediately, though your physical debit card arrives by mail within five to seven business days.
What is the minimum amount I need to open a BPI savings account?
The minimum opening deposit is typically ₱1,000 for standard BPI Savings Accounts, though some online accounts have no opening deposit requirement. High-yield or premium accounts may require ₱10,000 or more. Check with your branch or the BPI website for current minimums, as these vary by account type.
How long does it take to receive my debit card after opening an account?
If you open an account in person at a branch, your debit card arrives within one to three business days and the branch will notify you for pickup. If you open online, your card is mailed to your address and typically arrives within five to seven business days. You can use your account for online transfers and bill payments before your physical card arrives.
Will I be charged a monthly fee if I do not maintain a minimum balance?
Yes. Most BPI Savings Accounts charge a monthly maintenance fee (typically ₱150) if your balance falls below the required minimum (usually ₱5,000). The fee is waived if you maintain the minimum balance. Some account types waive the fee if you complete a certain number of transactions per month instead — ask about this option when you open your account.
Can I open a joint account with someone else?
Yes. Both account holders must visit the branch in person with their own valid IDs and proof of address. BPI will ask you to specify withdrawal permissions — whether both signatories are required for all withdrawals or only for amounts above a certain threshold.