Banking in Ukraine
Best banks in Ukraine for expats & digital nomads
Opening a bank account is one of the first things you do after moving to Ukraine. Here are the accounts that work for newcomers and non-residents, plus the fintech we would set up before you fly.
How to open a bank account in Ukraine
Many foreigners can open a UAH account with a passport; banks may also ask for a Ukrainian tax number (RNOKPP), proof of legal stay and a local phone number, and rules vary and change between banks. PrivatBank and monobank are the most accessible, with monobank offering app-based onboarding; compliance/financial-monitoring checks mean rejections are not uncommon.
Top banks in Ukraine
PrivatBank
traditionalUkraine's largest bank (state-owned) with a massive branch/ATM network and the Privat24 app; has accepted foreign passport holders.
monobank
digitalMobile-only bank known for fast in-app onboarding; card issued in minutes, though foreigner eligibility can vary by documents.
Raiffeisen Bank Ukraine
traditionalPart of Raiffeisen Bank International; generally follows a stricter policy and usually requires a residence permit for foreigners.
OTP Bank Ukraine
traditionalUkrainian arm of the Hungarian OTP Group offering a full range of retail services.
PUMB (FUIB)
traditionalFirst Ukrainian International Bank; large private bank with a mobile app and full retail product range.
International accounts & neobanks
Supports sending money to Ukrainian cards, but Ukrainian residents generally cannot open/hold a Wise account; verify current status.
Not available to open for residents inside Ukraine (outside the EEA); mainly used by Ukrainians abroad. Confirm eligibility.
Multi-currency payments account widely used in Ukraine (especially IT/freelancers) to receive international payments.
Availability changes; confirm on each provider's site.
Next steps in Ukraine
See the full Ukraine tax, cost and visa profile, or compare Ukraine with other destinations. Not sure where to go yet? Take the finder quiz.