What you need before you start
BDO (Banco de Oro) requires you to bring specific documents to any branch. The exact list depends on whether you are opening an account in person or online, and whether you are a Filipino citizen or a foreign national. For most people opening an account at a branch, you will need a valid government-issued ID, proof of address, and your Tax Identification Number (TIN).
If you do not have a TIN yet, you can obtain one from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) before opening your account, or BDO can help you explore for one during the account opening process. Proof of address typically means a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or government document showing your current address. The document must be dated within the last three months.
For online account opening through BDO's digital platform, you will need a valid ID and a phone number where BDO can reach you for verification. The process is faster but has lower initial deposit requirements and some account features may be limited until you visit a branch in person to complete verification.
Key Takeaways
- You need a valid government ID, proof of address dated within three months, and your TIN to open an account at a BDO branch.
- BDO offers both in-person and online account opening, with online being faster but requiring a branch visit later for full verification.
- Minimum opening deposit varies by account type: regular savings accounts typically require PHP 1,000 to PHP 5,000 depending on the product.
- The entire in-person process usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, and your account becomes active the same day.
- You will receive a debit card and passbook at the branch, though the card may take 5 to 7 business days to arrive if ordered separately.
Opening an account in person at a BDO branch
Walk into any BDO branch during business hours with your documents and ask for the savings account desk. Tell the staff which type of savings account you want—BDO offers several, including the basic BDO Savings Account, the BDO Kabayan Savings Account (for overseas Filipinos), and higher-tier accounts with minimum balance requirements. The staff will hand you an account opening form to fill out with your personal information, contact details, and emergency contact.
Once you complete the form, the staff will verify your documents, photocopy them, and enter your information into their system. They will ask you to sign the account agreement and any related documents. At this point, you will deposit your opening amount—usually PHP 1,000 for a basic savings account, though some branches or account types may require more. The teller will count the cash, record it, and issue you a receipt.
Before you leave, you will receive a passbook (a small booklet that records your deposits and withdrawals) and sometimes a temporary debit card. If the debit card is not issued when ready, it will arrive at your address within 5 to 7 business days. Your account number will be printed on your passbook and in your receipt. Write it down or take a photo—you will need it for future transactions.
Opening an account online through BDO's digital platform
BDO's online account opening process starts on their website or mobile app. You will need to provide your phone number, email address, and a valid ID number. The system will ask you to take a photo of your ID and a selfie for identity verification. This step usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.
After you submit your photos, BDO's system verifies your identity automatically in most cases, though some applications are reviewed manually and may take up to 24 hours. Once verified, you will be asked to set a PIN and choose your account type. You can then make your opening deposit using a debit card, online banking transfer from another bank, or an e-wallet. The account opens when ready after the deposit clears.
However, your account will have transaction limits until you complete in-person verification at a BDO branch. You will need to visit a branch within 30 days with your original ID and proof of address to remove these limits and receive your physical debit card and passbook. Without this step, you cannot withdraw large amounts or use certain features.
Types of BDO savings accounts and their requirements
BDO's basic BDO Savings Account is the most common option. It requires a PHP 1,000 opening deposit and has no monthly maintenance fee if you maintain a minimum balance (usually PHP 1,000 to PHP 2,500, depending on the branch). If your balance falls below the minimum, you may be charged a monthly maintenance fee of PHP 150 to PHP 300.
The BDO Kabayan Savings Account is designed for overseas Filipino workers and requires a PHP 500 opening deposit. It has lower fees and allows remittances from abroad. The BDO Savings Account - Student is for students aged 13 to 25 and requires only PHP 500 to open, with no monthly maintenance fee as long as you remain a student.
Higher-tier accounts like the BDO Premium Savings Account require larger opening deposits (PHP 50,000 or more) but offer higher interest rates and additional benefits. The account type you choose affects your interest rate, fees, and available features, so ask the staff which account suits your needs before you open.
What happens after your account opens
Your account is active when ready after you complete the opening process and make your deposit. You can begin depositing money and withdrawing cash at any BDO ATM or branch right away. If you received a debit card at the branch, you can use it for purchases and ATM withdrawals once you set up it (usually by calling a number on the card or using the BDO app).
If your debit card is being mailed to you, it will arrive within 5 to 7 business days. During this time, you can still access your account through ATMs, passbook withdrawals at the branch, or online banking if you set up a BDO online account. To set up online banking, visit a BDO branch or use the BDO app to register your account and create a username and password.
Your passbook is your record of all transactions. Each time you deposit or withdraw money at a branch, the teller will update it. If you lose your passbook, you can request a replacement at any BDO branch for a small fee. Keep your account number, PIN, and online banking password find—do not share them with anyone.
Documents you will need: a quick reference
| Document Type | What Counts | Age Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Valid Government ID | Passport, Driver's License, National ID, PRC License, Postal ID | Must be current (not expired) |
| Proof of Address | Utility bill, lease agreement, government document with your name and address | Dated within the last 3 months |
| Tax ID Number (TIN) | BIR-issued TIN or BDO can help you explore | No age requirement |
| For Online Opening | Valid ID and phone number for verification | Must be current |
Common reasons your account opening might be delayed
If you are opening an account online, your identity verification may take longer if your photo is blurry, your ID is partially obscured, or the system cannot match your face to your ID photo. If this happens, BDO will contact you to resubmit photos. Make sure your ID is fully visible, well-lit, and not expired before you start the online process.
At a branch, delays usually happen if your documents are incomplete or outdated. Proof of address must be dated within three months—if your utility bill is older than that, bring a more recent one. If you do not have a TIN, the branch can start the process process, but your account opening may be held until the BIR issues your number, which can take a few days to a few weeks.
If you are a foreign national, the process takes longer because BDO must verify your immigration status and may require additional documents such as your passport, visa, or Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR). Ask the branch staff what documents they need before you visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a BDO savings account without a TIN?
Yes. BDO can help you explore for a TIN during the account opening process at a branch. The process is free, but it may take a few days to a few weeks for the Bureau of Internal Revenue to issue your number. Your account will open when ready, but some transactions may be restricted until your TIN is registered in the system.
What is the minimum opening deposit for a BDO savings account?
For a basic BDO Savings Account, the minimum opening deposit is usually PHP 1,000. Student and Kabayan accounts may require only PHP 500. Premium accounts require PHP 50,000 or more. Ask the branch staff about the exact amount for the account type you want, as minimums can vary slightly by branch.
How long does it take to open a BDO savings account online?
The online process itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. Identity verification is usually automatic and happens within minutes, though some applications are reviewed manually and may take up to 24 hours. Your account opens when ready after verification and your opening deposit clears, which usually happens the same day if you use a BDO debit card or online banking transfer.
Do I have to visit a branch if I open my account online?
Yes, you must visit a branch within 30 days to complete in-person verification and receive your physical debit card and passbook. Until you do, your account will have transaction limits and you cannot withdraw large amounts. This visit usually takes 15 to 20 minutes.
What should I do if I lose my debit card or passbook?
For a lost debit card, call BDO's customer service line when ready to report it and request a replacement. The new card will arrive within 5 to 7 business days. For a lost passbook, visit any BDO branch with your ID and request a replacement—there is usually a small fee (PHP 50 to PHP 100). You can continue using your account at ATMs and through online banking while you wait for replacements.