What you need to open a BDO Kabayan account
BDO Kabayan is a savings account designed for overseas Filipino workers and their families. To open one, you need a valid government-issued ID, proof of address, and an initial deposit. The account can be opened in person at any BDO branch in the Philippines, or online through BDO's website if you already have a BDO account.
The initial deposit requirement varies depending on the account type you choose. BDO Kabayan offers several versions — some with lower minimums for overseas workers, others for family members receiving remittances. You'll also need to decide whether you want a regular passbook account or a debit card account, as this affects which documents you'll submit and how you'll access your money.
If you're opening the account from abroad, you can authorize a family member in the Philippines to open it on your behalf using a notarized power of attorney. This is common for overseas workers who cannot travel home to do it themselves.
Key Takeaways
- You need a valid government ID, proof of address, and an initial deposit to open a BDO Kabayan account at any branch in the Philippines.
- The initial deposit amount depends on which Kabayan account type you choose, so confirm the current minimum with your branch before you go.
- If you're overseas, a family member can open the account for you using a notarized power of attorney and your signed documents.
- Online account opening is available only if you already have an existing BDO account with an active debit card.
Documents to bring for in-person opening
Bring your original government-issued ID and one photocopy. Acceptable IDs include a passport, driver's license, PRC license, or national ID. The ID must be current and show your full name, date of birth, and signature.
You'll also need proof of your current address. A utility bill, lease agreement, or barangay certificate dated within the last three months works. If your ID shows a different address than where you live now, bring both the ID and the address proof — BDO will use the address proof as your official mailing address.
Bring your initial deposit in cash or a check. If paying by check, it must be a personal check drawn on a Philippine bank account. Some branches accept checks from overseas banks, but call ahead to confirm. Have your TIN (Tax Identification Number) ready if you have one, though it's not required to open the account.
Steps to open the account in person
Go to any BDO branch during business hours with your documents and initial deposit. Tell the teller or account officer you want to open a BDO Kabayan account. They will ask which type of Kabayan account you want — this determines your deposit minimum and what features you get.
The account officer will fill out an account opening form with your information. Review it carefully for spelling and accuracy before signing. You'll sign the signature card, which BDO keeps on file to verify your signature on future transactions. If you're opening a debit card account, you'll also sign the debit card application form.
Hand over your initial deposit. The teller will count it, issue you a receipt, and give you your account number. If you opened a passbook account, you'll receive your passbook immediately. If you opened a debit card account, the card will be mailed to your address within 7 to 10 business days.
Opening a Kabayan account online
Online opening is only available if you already have an active BDO savings or checking account with a debit card. Log into your BDO online banking account and look for the option to open an additional account. Select BDO Kabayan from the account type menu.
You'll enter your personal information, which BDO will verify against your existing account. The system will confirm your identity using your registered mobile number and email. Once approved, your new Kabayan account will be active immediately, and you can transfer money into it from your existing BDO account to meet the initial deposit requirement.
Your debit card for the new Kabayan account will be mailed to your registered address within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your existing BDO debit card to access the Kabayan account through ATMs and online banking in the meantime.
Using a power of attorney if you're overseas
If you cannot travel to the Philippines to open the account yourself, have a family member or trusted representative open it for you. You'll need to sign a notarized special power of attorney (SPA) that authorizes them to open the account and sign documents on your behalf. The SPA must be notarized by a Philippine notary public or by a Philippine consulate in your country.
Send the original notarized SPA, a photocopy of your ID, and a photocopy of your proof of address to your representative. They will bring these documents plus their own ID to the BDO branch. The branch will verify the SPA, confirm your identity through the documents you've provided, and open the account. Your representative will deposit the initial funds on your behalf.
Some BDO branches require that you also send a signed letter stating that you authorize this specific person to open the account. Call your nearest BDO branch before your representative goes in, as requirements can vary slightly by location.
What happens after you open the account
Your account is active immediately after opening. If you opened a passbook account, you can start depositing and withdrawing money right away using your passbook at any BDO branch. If you opened a debit card account, you can use online banking and ATMs as soon as your account is set up, but you'll need to wait for your physical debit card to arrive before you can use it at merchants.
BDO will send you a welcome package with your account details and terms and conditions. Keep this for your records. If you opened the account online, you can download your account statement from your online banking dashboard. If you opened it in person, you can request statements at any branch or set up online banking to view your balance anytime.
Your Kabayan account works like any other BDO savings account for deposits and withdrawals. The main difference is that Kabayan accounts are designed to receive remittances from overseas and often have lower fees for international transfers. Some employers and remittance services recognize BDO Kabayan accounts and may offer faster or cheaper transfer options to them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a BDO Kabayan account if I don't have a Philippine address?
You need a Philippine address to open the account, even if you're overseas. Use your family's address or a relative's address as your mailing address. The address doesn't have to be your permanent residence — it just needs to be a valid location where BDO can send your debit card and statements.
What's the difference between BDO Kabayan and a regular BDO savings account?
BDO Kabayan is designed for overseas workers and their families receiving remittances. It often has lower initial deposit requirements and may offer reduced fees for international transfers. A regular BDO savings account has no special remittance features but works the same way for everyday banking.
How long does it take to receive my debit card after opening?
BDO typically mails debit cards within 7 to 10 business days of account opening. Delivery time depends on your address and postal service. You can use online banking and ATMs before your card arrives if you opened the account online or have an existing BDO account to link to it.
Do I need a minimum balance to keep the account open?
Minimum balance requirements vary by Kabayan account type. Some accounts have no minimum balance requirement, while others require you to maintain a small balance. Ask the account officer about the specific requirement for the account type you're opening.
Can I open a joint Kabayan account with another person?
Yes, BDO offers joint accounts. Both account holders must be present with valid IDs and proof of address, or one can authorize the other with a notarized power of attorney. Both signatories can withdraw money and access the account independently.