You can open a BDO Kabayan savings account entirely online through the BDO website or mobile app, without visiting a branch
BDO's Kabayan account is designed for overseas Filipino workers and their families. The online process takes about 10 to 15 minutes and requires a valid government ID, proof of address, and a source of funds document. You will need an active email address and a mobile phone number to complete registration and receive your account details.
The account opens with a minimum deposit of PHP 1,000, which you can transfer from another bank account or pay through BDO's partner payment channels. Once approved, you can access your account through BDO's online banking platform or mobile app within one to two business days.
Key Takeaways
- The entire BDO Kabayan account opening process happens online through the BDO website or mobile app without needing to visit a branch.
- You will need a valid government ID (passport, driver's license, or national ID), proof of address dated within the last three months, and a document showing your source of funds.
- The minimum opening deposit is PHP 1,000, which you can transfer from another bank or pay through BDO's partner payment options.
- Your account becomes active within one to two business days, and you can then log in to BDO online banking or the mobile app to manage your money.
What documents you need before you start
Gather these documents before opening your account. You will need one valid government-issued ID with your photo and signature — a Philippine passport, driver's license, national ID, or overseas worker ID all work. The ID must not be expired.
You also need proof of your current address. This can be a utility bill, bank statement, credit card statement, or government-issued document showing your name and address. The document must be dated within the last three months. If you live overseas, a document from your country of residence is acceptable.
Finally, you need a document showing where your money comes from. For overseas workers, this is typically a letter from your employer on company letterhead, a recent payslip, or a contract showing your employment. If you are receiving money from family or another source, a bank statement showing regular deposits or a letter from the sender works.
Step-by-step process to open your account online
Start by visiting the BDO website at www.bdo.com.ph or downloading the BDO mobile app from your phone's app store. Look for the "Open an Account" or "Kabayan" option on the homepage. The app and website both offer the same process, though many people find the app faster on a mobile phone.
Click through to the Kabayan account section and select "Open Online." You will be asked to enter your email address and create a password. BDO will send a verification code to your email — check your inbox and spam folder, then enter the code to confirm your email is real.
Next, you will enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, nationality, and mobile phone number. Use the name exactly as it appears on your government ID. BDO will send a one-time password (OTP) to your phone number to verify it works.
Upload clear photos of both sides of your government ID and your proof of address document. The photos must show the entire document with all text readable. If the image is blurry or cut off, BDO will ask you to resubmit. Then upload your source of funds document the same way.
Review the account terms and conditions, then sign the digital agreement. You will be asked to set up security questions and confirm your contact details. Once you submit, BDO sends a confirmation email to the address you provided.
How to make your first deposit and activate the account
After you submit your application, BDO reviews your documents — this usually takes a few hours to one business day. You will receive an email when your account is approved, along with your account number and temporary login credentials.
To activate the account, you must make a deposit of at least PHP 1,000. You can transfer money from another bank account using your new BDO account number, or you can pay through BDO's partner payment channels. Common options include online banking transfers from other Philippine banks, remittance centers, or BDO partner payment platforms.
Once your deposit clears — usually within one to two business days — your account is fully active. You can then log into BDO online banking or the mobile app using your email and password to check your balance, transfer money, and manage your account.
What happens if your application is rejected or delayed
BDO may ask for additional documents if your submitted photos are unclear or if they need more information about your source of funds. Check your email regularly for any requests. If you receive a message asking for more documents, upload them as quickly as you can — delays in responding can slow down approval.
If your application is rejected, BDO will send an email explaining why. Common reasons include an expired ID, proof of address older than three months, or unclear photos of your documents. You can reapply immediately with corrected documents.
If you do not hear back within three business days, contact BDO customer service through their website chat, call their hotline at 1-800-631-8000 (toll-free in the Philippines), or visit a BDO branch with your documents. Have your email address and the date you applied ready when you contact them.
Using your account once it is open
Once your Kabayan account is active, you can receive money transfers from overseas through BDO's international remittance channels. Many overseas employers and remittance services send money directly to BDO accounts. You can also transfer money between your Kabayan account and other BDO accounts you own.
You can withdraw cash at any BDO ATM using your debit card, which is mailed to you after account opening. The card usually arrives within five to seven business days. Until it arrives, you can withdraw at BDO teller windows by presenting your ID and account number.
The Kabayan account has no monthly maintenance fee and no minimum balance requirement after your initial PHP 1,000 deposit. Interest rates vary and are posted on the BDO website. You can check your balance and transaction history anytime through online banking or the mobile app.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a BDO Kabayan account if I am not currently working overseas?
Yes. The account is designed for overseas workers, but BDO also opens them for family members receiving remittances and for people planning to work abroad. You will still need to show a source of funds — this can be a letter from a family member abroad, a remittance receipt, or employment documentation showing you are about to start working overseas.
What if my government ID is expired?
BDO will not accept an expired ID. You will need to renew your ID through your country's government agency before you can open the account. If you are overseas, many embassies and consulates can renew IDs by mail or appointment.
How long does it take to receive my debit card after opening the account?
Your debit card is mailed to the address you provided during registration. Delivery typically takes five to seven business days within the Philippines. If you are overseas, delivery can take two to four weeks depending on your country. You can withdraw cash at BDO tellers before the card arrives by showing your ID and account number.
Can I open the account on my phone, or do I need a computer?
You can open the account entirely on your phone using the BDO mobile app. The app works on both Android and iOS. Many people find it easier on a phone because you can take photos of your documents directly in the app rather than uploading files.
What if I do not have a Philippine address for proof of address?
You can use a document from your current country of residence — a utility bill, lease agreement, or government document showing your name and address. It must be dated within the last three months and show your full address clearly.