In Peru, just like in any foreign country, it can be frustrating trying to open a bank account. Opening corporate and private bank accounts can take a lot of time, which in many cases will end up costing you money. However, it is an essential step when starting a business in Peru. In fact, without that bank account, you will not be issued a business license. It is therefore important to know when and where to start, Bizlatinhub offers an analysis.
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Bank Account Peru – Current Account Vs Savings Account
Considering the most common types of accounts, we must specify that the current account is one that is generated through the signing of a banking contract, whereby a financial institution is obliged to comply with its client’s payment orders up to the amount of money that the latter has deposited in it, or, if applicable, the amount of the credit that has been granted. The savings account is an ordinary deposit, in which the funds deposited have immediate availability and generate profitability or interest for a certain period and according to the amount saved. As a result of the signing of contracts for the opening of current accounts or savings accounts with banks, the additional benefits they provide such as access to credit, cards, etc. can be made available.
On the other hand, natural and juridical persons (the latter including the different types of companies such as SAA and Cerrada (SAC), Individual Limited Liability Company (EIRL), Civil Associations, etc.) may apply for both accounts and can do so in both domestic and foreign currency. Regarding the opening of accounts in foreign currency, dollar accounts are generalized, however, opening accounts in other currencies, will depend only on the financial institution.
Requirements for the Opening of a Bank Account in Peru
It is necessary to follow guidelines in order to guarantee the success of opening a bank account. There are various requirements which change between savings and current accounts. These requirements also change depending on the type of entity opening the account. In the table below you will find the requirements for the main types of bank accounts which can be opened in Peru.
| BANKING ENTITIES (Banco de Crédito del Perú, BBVA Continental, Scotiabank) | PERSONAL ACCOUNTS | CORPORATE ACCOUNTS |
| REQUISITOS
GENERALES | Both can open current accounts yet these can be turned down if they have a bad credit rating | |
| Identification
(National Identity of Foreigner’s Identity Card called Carné de Extranjera) | Documentation which proves the existence of the company and it’s recognition by the Public Register and the National Superintendency of Taxation Administration (SUNAT) | |
| Verified home address | An approved Legal Representative. | |
| Energy or water bills. | Legal Rep official documentation. (DNI or Foreigner’s Identity card) |
Can Foreigners open Bank Accounts in Peru?
It is important to note that foreigners who are in Peru as tourists and who have not obtained a foreigners card (Carné de Extranjería) will be unable to open a bank account, regardless of what bank they choose or what type of account they are opening. This makes sense due to it ensuring that people on tourist visas have limitations when it comes to working and setting up a business in Peru. In turn, it ensures that foreigners follow the Peruvian legal system and pay their taxes.
Biz Latin Hub can help you to open a corporate bank account in Peru
At Biz Latin Hub, we provide integrated market entry and back-office services throughout Latin America and the Caribbean, with offices in Bogota and Cartagena, as well as over a dozen other major cities in the region. We also have trusted partners in many other markets.
Our unrivaled reach means we are ideally placed to support multi-jurisdiction market entries and cross border operations.
As well as knowledge of how to open a corporate bank account in Peru, our portfolio of services includes hiring & PEO, accounting & taxation, company formation, bank account opening, and corporate legal services.
Contact us today to find out more about how we can assist you in finding top talent, or otherwise do business in Latin America and the Caribbean.
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