Opening an account abroad for international business: from choosing a bank to receiving a corporate account

We assist with opening corporate accounts for companies in the EU and other international jurisdictions. We help select a bank or payment institution that matches your business model, prepare the documents and pass compliance checks.

Opening an account for a foreign company now involves much more than simply submitting an application. Banks carefully review the business structure, owners and ultimate beneficial owners, sources of funds, countries of operation and the nature of transactions. The KRYNO team helps you approach the process prepared: we assess risks before the application is filed, assemble the document package, support communication with the bank and help reduce the risk of rejection.

We assist with opening corporate accounts for companies in the EU and other international jurisdictions. We help select a bank or payment institution that matches your business model, prepare the documents and pass compliance checks.

Opening an account for a foreign company now involves much more than simply submitting an application. Banks carefully review the business structure, owners and ultimate beneficial owners, sources of funds, countries of operation and the nature of transactions. The KRYNO team helps you approach the process prepared: we assess risks before the application is filed, assemble the document package, support communication with the bank and help reduce the risk of rejection.

Who the service is for opening an account abroad

The service is suitable for entrepreneurs who are opening or already running an international business and want to operate through a reliable bank account without unnecessary delays, unexpected refusals or lengthy correspondence with the compliance department.

You are forming a company abroad

We will help open a corporate account so that you can start working with clients, partners and suppliers quickly.

A bank has already refused to open an account

We will analyse the reasons, improve the document package and select an institution suited to your business.

Your business needs to pass compliance checks

We will prepare the company for compliance checks and help complete the account-opening procedure.

You work with VAT, EORI or marketplaces

We will help open an account that meets international payment requirements and suits your business model.

You expect to bypass KYC and AML procedures

An account can be opened successfully only after a compliance check conducted in line with international requirements.

You do not plan to verify company information

A properly prepared document package significantly increases the likelihood of a positive decision and shortens the review period. 

You cannot verify the source of funds

A financial institution may refuse service if documents confirming the sources of funding and the nature of transactions are unavailable.

You only need an application submitted to a bank

Our support begins before you approach a financial institution: we analyse the risks, prepare the company for compliance and assist until a decision is received.

What is opening an account abroad?

Opening an account abroad

The procedure for opening a corporate or personal account with a foreign bank or licensed payment institution. Before making a decision, the financial institution conducts a compliance review of the company or applicant and analyses the ownership structure, nature of activities, sources of funds, future financial transactions and other factors affecting its risk assessment.

Bank or payment institution (EMI): which should you choose?

Both traditional banks and licensed payment institutions (EMIs) offering IBAN details, SEPA and SWIFT transfers and international payments can be suitable for an international business. The choice depends on the company’s jurisdiction, type of activity, client geography, VAT or EORI requirements, expected turnover and other business factors. The best solution is therefore determined individually.

What is included in support for opening an account abroad

4 steps from the first enquiry to opening an account

1

We analyse your situation

During the initial consultation, we determine the company's jurisdiction, type of activity, expected transactions, countries of operation and account requirements. At this stage, it becomes clear which banks or payment institutions should be considered and which documents will be required.

2

We prepare the documents

The KRYNO team will review the corporate document package, information about company owners and compliance materials. Where necessary, it will identify which documents need to be revised or obtained before the application is filed.

3

We apply and complete compliance checks

Once the documents are ready, the application is submitted to the selected financial institution. If the bank or payment institution requests additional information, you receive recommendations on the response and support until the review is complete.

4

You receive the account details

After the financial institution approves the application, a corporate account is opened and you receive access to online banking, account details and international payment tools. Depending on the jurisdiction, the entire process may take from several days to several weeks.

How much does opening an account abroad?

The support fee is determined individually because each bank has its own requirements and the account-opening process depends on the jurisdiction, the company’s activities and the complexity of the compliance review.

The price is affected by the company’s country of registration, the selected financial institution, ownership structure, business sector, number of beneficiaries, international operations and the need to prepare additional documents or explanations for the bank.

The support fee may include an analysis of your situation, selection of a financial institution, review of corporate documents, preparation of the compliance package, application support, communication with the bank and assistance until the account is opened.

The cost of notarisation, apostilles, translations, opening additional accounts, bank or payment institution fees and other charges arising in a particular jurisdiction may be agreed separately.

After a free consultation, the KRYNO team will calculate the cost for your specific situation.

Documents required for opening an account abroad?

The document list depends on the company’s country of registration, the bank’s requirements and the nature of the business. It usually includes the company’s corporate documents, information about beneficiaries and directors, a description of activities, evidence of sources of funds and future financial transactions. If any documents are missing or need to be updated, the KRYNO team will help determine which materials are required to pass the compliance check successfully.

Common myths and facts about opening an account abroad

Common assumptions

MYTH

“An account can be opened with any bank.”

MYTH

“If a company is registered in the EU, an account will be opened automatically.”

MYTH

“A payment institution is always worse than a traditional bank.”

MYTH

“A refusal from one bank means that an account can no longer be opened.”

The reality

FACT

Every bank has its own risk policy and a list of business activities it accepts.

FACT

Company formation does not guarantee that an account will be opened — the bank conducts separate KYC and AML checks.

FACT

In many cases, EMIs provide IBAN details, support SEPA and SWIFT transfers and meet the core payment needs of an international business.

FACT

A refusal may be related to the requirements of a specific institution, so another bank or EMI may approve the application.

MYTH

“An account can be opened with any bank.”

FACT

Every bank has its own risk policy and a list of business activities it accepts.

MYTH

“If a company is registered in the EU, an account will be opened automatically.”

FACT

Company formation does not guarantee that an account will be opened — the bank conducts separate KYC and AML checks.

MYTH

“A payment institution is always worse than a traditional bank.”

FACT

In many cases, EMIs provide IBAN details, support SEPA and SWIFT transfers and meet the core payment needs of an international business.

MYTH

“A refusal from one bank means that an account can no longer be opened.”

FACT

A refusal may be related to the requirements of a specific institution, so another bank or EMI may approve the application.

Frequently Asked Questions about opening an account abroad

What happens if an account is not opened after the company is formed?

In most cases, the company can remain registered, but without a corporate account it will be difficult or impossible to accept client payments, pay supplier invoices, pay taxes and operate fully. If you plan to begin operating immediately after formation, account opening should be considered while the documents are being prepared.

Can an account be opened if the company is not yet operating?

Yes. Most banks open accounts for newly formed companies, but during compliance checks you must explain the future operating model, expected turnover, countries of operation and sources of funding. This information often has a greater impact on the bank's decision than the actual existence of income.

How long does it take to open an account?

The timeframe depends on the country, bank or payment institution and the complexity of the compliance review. On average, the procedure may take 5 to 30 business days. It may take longer if the bank requests additional documents or information.

Can I open an account myself?

Yes. A company can apply to a bank or payment institution itself if it meets the selected institution's requirements. However, additional documents may be required during compliance checks, and a failure to meet the requirements may result in refusal. Preparing documents in advance, analysing the business model and selecting the right bank or EMI improve the chances of opening an account successfully.

If the company is registered abroad, does the account need to be reported in Ukraine?

Opening a foreign company's corporate account does not in itself create a separate obligation to notify the Ukrainian tax authorities. However, the company owner may have other tax obligations in Ukraine, including under CFC rules. These should be assessed before the company begins operating.

Can an account be opened remotely?

Yes. Many European banks and payment institutions allow the procedure to be completed remotely. However, some financial institutions may require the director or beneficiary to be present in person, complete video verification or provide notarised documents.

What should I do if a bank has already refused to open an account?

A refusal from one bank does not mean that other financial institutions will also refuse. First, the reasons for the decision should be analysed, the document package reviewed and the selected institution's suitability for your business assessed. In many cases, after proper preparation, an account is successfully opened with another bank or payment institution.

Which is better: a bank or a payment institution (EMI)?

There is no universal solution. A traditional bank may be best for some activities, while a licensed payment institution (EMI) may be better for others. The choice depends on the company's jurisdiction, expected turnover, client geography, the need for SEPA, SWIFT, VAT or EORI and partner requirements.

Open a corporate account abroad and begin operating in international markets

A bank refusal or lengthy compliance review is not always related to the company’s activities. The most common reasons are incorrectly prepared documents, an unsuccessful application strategy or selecting a financial institution that does not accept your type of business.

During a 30-minute consultation, we will analyse your business, help identify the bank or payment institution that best meets your needs, explain which documents must be prepared and develop a step-by-step account-opening plan. After the consultation, you will understand the next steps, estimated timeframe and support costs, allowing you to enter international markets with confidence.

A bank refusal or lengthy compliance review is not always related to the company’s activities. The most common reasons are incorrectly prepared documents, an unsuccessful application strategy or selecting a financial institution that does not accept your type of business.
During a 30-minute consultation, we will analyse your business, help identify the bank or payment institution that best meets your needs, explain which documents must be prepared and develop a step-by-step account-opening plan. After the consultation, you will understand the next steps, estimated timeframe and support costs, allowing you to enter international markets with confidence.
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Ready to start? First step for free

Is it difficult to understand where to start a business abroad? This is what KRYNO is for. 30-minute consultation is free.
Company registration

Ready to start? First step for free

Is it difficult to understand where to start a business abroad? This is what KRYNO is for. 30-minute consultation is free.
Company registration