How to open a bunq account as an Ukrainian or Russian refugee?

bunq · Sep 23, 2022

Hey bunqers,

With the Russia-Ukraine war many people fled to places unknown to them. Our team on the ground noticed people need a way to make secure payments outside Ukraine, so we acted quickly to make it easier for refugees to get a bank account with all possible legal documentation.

We now see that most refugees managed to cover the need of a bank account, so as of September 23, 2022, we’re reverting back to our normal signup process for refugees. This ensures that we’ll be able to provide the best banking experience to everyone! However, keep in mind that some legal restrictions remain active, meaning that the total balance of all of your accounts are limited to €20,000.00.

Important note: As of August 5, 2022, we'll only accept personal accounts registrations for Ukrainian and Russian refugees from the following countries : Austria 🇦🇹, Belgium 🇧🇪, France 🇫🇷, Germany 🇩🇪, Ireland 🇮🇪, Italy 🇮🇹, The Netherlands 🇳🇱, Portugal 🇵🇹 and Spain 🇪🇸

What documents can I use to verify as a Ukrainian refugee?

Ukrainian ID card
Ukrainian passport

More info on the accepted documents for verification can be found here

Keep in mind that you might be asked for proof of residence during your verification. You can learn more about this here.

What documents can I use to verify as a Russian refugee?

European Resident Permit Card

More info on the accepted documents for verification can be found here

Keep in mind that you might be asked for proof of residence during your verification. You can learn more about this here

How do we determine Russian and Ukrainian refugees?

If you're an Ukrainian or Russian citizen and have a European Residence Permit, the bunq app will classify you as a refugee. As a refugee you'll get get 3 months of the bunq Core plan for free.

Tips on opening a bunq account as an Ukrainian or Russian refugee

Our current acceptance policy only allows for EEA residents to open a bunq account. To fit within our policy in case of a temporary address in the EEA, use the address where you'll reside in the following 5 days. If needed, update your app at a later date by following the steps here.
The email or phone number used to open a bunq account is unique per user. Make sure to open an account with a different phone number and/or email every time.
If you're having issues with verification, confirm whether you're using an unsupported ID document. We currently do NOT accept Ukrainian or Russian drivers licenses or non-biometric Ukrainian or Russian passports, as they don't fit in with EEA regulations on accepted documents for ID verification.

Want to learn more?

If you’re in need of help, willing and able to help others in the war affected region or want to donate, reach out to the People for People foundation, co-founded by bunq to connect people who can provide help to those who need it – Ukrainians and Russians alike.