Finance & Business

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Why expat banking?

If you're an expat, you'll need to open a bank account abroad. The paperwork associated with expat banking can be a hassle at first, but it often eliminates the fees associated with withdrawing cash from back home. Overseas savings accounts also give you quick access to cash and a face-to-face relationship with local financial advisers who can help you with international mortgages and other loans. Different countries have different...

Why expat banking?

Choosing a local bank

Before you open an expat bank account, make sure that you know who owns the bank, its credit worthiness and which jurisdiction it falls under. As one of our experts advises, “In light of recent turbulence in the banking sector, you need to know if your bank deposits are protected by any government scheme. Each jurisdiction has a different position on this, and offshore accounts in particular should be checked.” And, as our article ‘Depositors, beware!’ points out, be sure to diversify your assets.

Keeping up-to-date

Expatica’s banking channel keeps you up-to-date with news from the financial world. Articles cover everything from the local and worldwide economic climate to mergers and acquisitions in the banking sector to the benefits of Islamic banking.

Ask the expert

Expert articles include the most cost-effective ways of transferring money abroad and choosing a bank which suits your specific needs as an expat. Make use of our Ask the Expert section to pose your questions on your local banking system to experts in Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland and the UK. Questions answered by our experts include: “How can I open a bank account while I am in Europe?”, “What is an IBAN number and where can I get one?” and “I live and work in France but still own a house in England. What is the most cost-effective way to transfer payments for my mortgage?"

With a mixture of capital protected plans and actively managed funds, Expatica financial expert Craig Welsh shows how an investment portfolio can be built for long-term capital growth.

23/03/2012 Why Americans should never, ever own shares in a non-US incorporated mutual fund

Financial advisor David Kuenzi explains why changes to US tax legislation means that US expats should make their--even global--investments only through US institutions.

21/03/2012 Banking in France

Payment in France is easy by credit card, but as a resident you'll soon need a local bank account. Here's a guide to how the French banking system works.

13/03/2012 Editor's guide to Banking in Germany

A brief introduction to the Banking section for Expatica Germany.

Visit our country sites

Expat banking in Europe

Why expat banking?

Why expat banking?

Choosing a local bank

Keeping up-to-date

Ask the expert

Banking - Essential Articles

26/03/2012 Expert tips: How to invest your money wisely

23/03/2012 Why Americans should never, ever own shares in a non-US incorporated mutual fund

21/03/2012 Banking in France

13/03/2012 Editor's guide to Banking in Germany