Venezuela has a complex banking system due to the country’s ongoing economic and political instability. In this article, we will provide an overview of the banking system in Venezuela, including the main local banks, the presence of UK and USA banks, accounts and services specifically aimed at expats, typical bank opening hours, specific areas of concern for expats, and how to open a bank account in Venezuela as an expat.
Main local banks in Venezuela and their contact details
Some of the main local banks in Venezuela are:
- Banco Nacional de Crédito (BNC)
- Phone: +58 212 5031111
- Website: https://www.bnc.com.ve/
- Banco de Venezuela
- Phone: +58 212 5011111
- Website: https://www.bancodevenezuela.com/
- Banco Mercantil
- Phone: +58 212 5036111
- Website: https://www.bancomercantil.com/
- Banco Provincial
- Phone: +58 212 5011111
- Website: https://www.provincial.com/
- Banco Occidental de Descuento (BOD)
- Phone: +58 212 5035000
- Website: https://www.bodinternet.com/
Presence of UK and USA banks in Venezuela and their contact details
Due to the country’s instability, many UK and USA banks have scaled back or completely closed their operations in Venezuela. As of 2021, the following UK and USA banks have a presence in Venezuela:
- Citibank Venezuela
- Phone: +58 212 2777711
- Website: https://www.citibank.com/venezuela/
- Banco Exterior (owned by BBVA)
- Phone: +58 212 2001111
- Website: https://www.bancoexterior.com/
Accounts and services specifically aimed at expats
Banks in Venezuela do not offer accounts or services specifically aimed at expats.
Typical bank opening hours in Venezuela
The typical bank opening hours in Venezuela are from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, Monday through Friday.
Specific areas of concern for expats
Expats should be aware of the following specific areas of concern when it comes to the banking system in Venezuela:
- Exchange rate: Venezuela has a complex exchange rate system with multiple rates, which can be difficult for expats to navigate.
- Inflation: The country has been experiencing hyperinflation, which can affect the value of the local currency and any savings held in that currency.
- Limited access to funds: Due to the ongoing economic crisis, some banks may have limits on the amount of cash that can be withdrawn, which can be a concern for expats who need to access their funds.
Opening a bank account in Venezuela
Opening a bank account in Venezuela can be a complex process, especially for expats. The following are the steps to open a bank account in Venezuela:
Step 1: Choose a bank and gather required documents
Choose a bank that meets your needs and gather the required documents, which typically include:
- Two forms of identification (passport, driver’s license, etc.)
- Proof of residence (utility bill, rental agreement, etc.)
- Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, etc.)
Step 2: Make an appointment with the bank
Contact the bank to schedule an appointment to open an account. Note that some banks may only offer appointments in Spanish.
Step 3: Attend the appointment and complete the application process
Attend the appointment and complete the application process. This typically involves filling out an application form
The next step is to go to the bank and submit the application and documents. Once the application is reviewed and approved, you will receive your account number and can start using your new bank account.
In conclusion, banking in Venezuela can be a challenging experience, especially for expats. The country has a complex economic situation and currency controls that can make banking and financial transactions difficult. However, there are several local and international banks operating in the country that offer a range of accounts and services, including those aimed at expats. By understanding the banking system and following the steps outlined above, expats can successfully open and manage a bank account in Venezuela.
