How to Open a Free Philippine Bank Account With Your Phone: A Step-by-Step Guide

Having a bank account is essential for managing finances, making transactions, and building financial security. In the past, opening a bank account in the Philippines required multiple visits to a branch, long queues, and extensive paperwork. However, with the rise of digital banking, the process has become much simpler and more accessible. Many banks now offer fully online applications, allowing Filipinos to open an account from the comfort of their homes.

Beyond daily transactions, having a bank account in your own name is also a crucial requirement when applying for a Rampver Online investment account, as it serves as the recipient account for your investment proceeds.

Another key benefit of having a bank account is the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) coverage, which protects depositors in case a bank fails. The PDIC insures deposit accounts up to ₱500,000 per depositor per bank, providing peace of mind that your money is safe. This government-backed protection ensures that even in unforeseen circumstances, your hard-earned savings remain secure. 

Whether you’re planning to grow your wealth through mutual funds or simply looking for a reliable digital banking option, securing a bank account is the first step toward financial empowerment.

This guide will walk you through the easiest ways to open a bank account in the Philippines, highlighting eligibility requirements, step-by-step instructions, and expected turnaround times. Whether you're looking for a savings account, a debit card for everyday spending, or a digital wallet for seamless transactions, this article will help you find the best option for your needs.

1. BPI #SaveUp

Overview

BPI #SaveUp is a fully digital savings account designed for Filipinos who want easy access to banking without maintaining balance requirements. As one of the most established banks in the country, BPI provides security and reliability alongside a seamless digital experience. The #SaveUp account can be opened entirely online via the BPI Mobile app and offers an optional physical debit card for ₱200.

Why Choose This Bank?

  • Trusted by millions, backed by one of the largest banks in the Philippines

  • Fully online application with instant account creation

  • No maintaining balance required, making it accessible for beginners

  • Integrated with the BPI Mobile app for seamless fund transfers and payments

Bank Account Features

  • Application: Online via BPI Mobile app

  • Requirements:

    • 1 valid government-issued ID (UMID, Passport, PRC ID, Driver’s License, PhilSys ID)

    • Active mobile number & email

    • Filipino citizen, at least 18 years old

  • Turnaround Time: Instant or within 24 hours

  • Debit Card Application: ₱200 fee (optional)

📌 Start here: #SaveUp | BPI

How to Open an Account

  1. Download the BPI Mobile App (Android/iOS).

  2. Tap "Open an Account" and select #SaveUp.

  3. Enter your personal details (name, birthday, mobile number, email).

  4. Upload a valid ID and take a selfie for verification.

  5. Set up your username and password.

  6. Wait for approval (usually within 24 hours).

  7. To request a debit card: Visit a BPI branch or request delivery via the app for ₱200.

2. RCBC One Account

Overview

RCBC One Account is a hybrid digital savings account that combines the convenience of online banking with a free debit card, allowing easy ATM withdrawals and payments. With no maintaining balance required (unless you opt for a checkbook), this account is ideal for individuals looking for a flexible and cost-effective banking solution.

Why Choose This Bank?

  • Offers a free debit card without any additional charges

  • No maintaining balance unless you request a checkbook

  • Online application through RCBC Digital app with video verification

  • Backed by RCBC, a leading universal bank in the Philippines

  • Strong security features including OTP authentication for transactions

Bank Account Features

  • Application: Online via RCBC Digital app

  • Requirements:

    • 1 valid government-issued ID

    • Active mobile number & email

    • Filipino citizen, at least 18 years old

  • Turnaround Time: 24-48 hours

  • Debit Card Application: Free (request via app)

📌 Start here: Open an Online Bank Account in the Philippines | RCBC

How to Open an Account

  1. Download the RCBC Digital App.

  2. Tap "Open an Account" and select One Account.

  3. Fill out the online form with personal details.

  4. Upload a valid ID and take a selfie for verification.

  5. Complete a short video verification (optional).

  6. Wait for approval within 48 hours.

  7. Request a free debit card via the app and have it delivered.

3. Security Bank Easy Account

Overview

Security Bank’s Easy Account lives up to its name by offering a fully online account opening process with a free debit card. This makes it a great option for those who need a reliable banking solution without the hassle of visiting a branch.

Why Choose This Bank?

  • Free debit card that can be requested via the app

  • No maintaining balance, making it accessible for all income levels

  • User-friendly mobile banking app for transfers, bills payments, and investments

  • Strong customer support with branch assistance when needed

Bank Account Features

  • Application: Online via Security Bank Mobile app

  • Requirements:

    • 1 valid government-issued ID

    • Active mobile number & email

    • Filipino citizen, at least 18 years old

  • Turnaround Time: Within 24 hours

  • Debit Card Application: Free (request via app)

📌Start here: Apply for an Easy Savings account

How to Open an Account

  1. Download the Security Bank Mobile App.

  2. Select "Open an Account" and choose Easy Account.

  3. Provide personal details and upload an ID.

  4. Take a selfie for facial verification.

  5. Submit the application and wait for approval.

  6. Request your free debit card via the app or visit a branch.

4. CIMB Bank PH

Overview

CIMB Bank PH is a digital-only bank known for its high-interest savings accounts and quick online application process. It provides an innovative banking experience, eliminating traditional banking fees and offering competitive interest rates.

Why Choose This Bank?

  • 100% digital bank with no physical branches required

  • High-interest rates (up to 4% p.a.) with no minimum deposit

  • Instant account opening with real-time verification

  • Integrated with GCash for seamless transfers and transactions

  • No hidden fees and no maintaining balance

Bank Account Features

  • Application: Online via CIMB Bank PH app

  • Requirements:

    • 1 valid government-issued ID

    • Active mobile number & email

    • Filipino citizen, at least 18 years old

  • Turnaround Time: Instant

  • Debit Card Application: No physical card; virtual card available

📌 Start here: CIMB Bank PH

How to Open an Account

  1. Download the CIMB Bank PH App.

  2. Tap "Open an Account" and choose between Fast or UpSave accounts.

  3. Enter your details and upload an ID.

  4. Complete the selfie verification.

  5. Wait for approval (usually immediate).

5. GSave by GCash

Overview

GSave is a savings account powered by CIMB Bank and fully integrated into the GCash app. It allows users to open a digital savings account instantly without needing to switch apps.

Why Choose This Bank?

  • Instant account creation with no physical branch visit required

  • Competitive interest rates with seamless fund management via GCash

  • No maintaining balance required, making it ideal for digital users

  • GCash Mastercard can be used as a debit card for ATM withdrawals

  • Secure transactions with in-app verification

Bank Account Features

  • Application: Directly via GCash app

  • Requirements:

    • Fully verified GCash account

    • At least 18 years old

  • Turnaround Time: Instant

  • Debit Card Application: No physical card; use GCash Mastercard

📌 Start here: GSave - Easy to Save & Earn with GSave

How to Open an Account

  1. Log in to GCash and tap GSave under "Save Money".

  2. Tap “Open a GSave Account”.

  3. Follow the instructions and complete identity verification.

  4. Your account is activated instantly.

  5. For a debit card, order a GCash Mastercard via the app.

6. GoTyme Bank

Overview

GoTyme Bank is an innovative digital bank that offers instant account opening with the added convenience of claiming a free debit card at kiosks nationwide. It combines the best of digital banking with the convenience of a physical card.

Why Choose This Bank?

  • Instant account approval with real-time facial recognition verification

  • Free physical debit card, which can be claimed instantly at kiosks

  • Backed by a partnership between Tyme, Gokongwei Group, and Singapore’s TymeBank

  • No maintaining balance or hidden fees

  • Easy integration with digital payments and transfers

Bank Account Features

  • Application: Online via GoTyme Bank app

  • Requirements:

    • 1 valid government-issued ID

    • Active mobile number & email

  • Turnaround Time: Instant

  • Debit Card Application: Free (claim at GoTyme kiosks)

📌 Start here: Home | GoTyme

How to Open an Account

  1. Download the GoTyme Bank App.

  2. Tap “Open an Account”.

  3. Enter your details and upload a valid ID.

  4. Complete facial verification.

  5. Visit a GoTyme kiosk to claim your free debit card instantly.

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7. OWN Bank

Overview

Since undergoing digital transformation in 2021, OwnBank has reentered the Philippine market as a mobile banking platform offering various financial services. Originally founded in 1956 as Own Bank, The Rural Bank of Cavite City, Inc., it provides attractive interest rates to new users opening a seven-day Time Deposit account.

Bank Account Features

  • Application: Online via OWNBank Mobile App

  • Requirements:

    • 1 valid government-issued ID

    • Active mobile number

  • Turnaround Time: 24 hours

  • Debit Card Application: None

📌 Start here: OwnBank - Philippine Digitalized Bank

How to Open an Account

  1. Download and launch the OwnBank app.

  2. Enter your mobile number.

  3. Receive and input the OTP (One Time Password).

  4. Begin using your OwnBank Basic Account, including Cash-in, Own It Savings, and Time Deposit.

8. SeaBank

Overview

SeaBank PH is a digital bank owned by Shopee, offering high-interest savings accounts with zero transaction fees. It’s perfect for Shopee users and online shoppers looking to maximize savings.

Why Choose This Bank?

  • Competitive interest rates (up to 5% p.a.) with no minimum deposit

  • Zero transfer fees to other banks and e-wallets

  • Instant approval process with real-time verification

  • Fully digital, with no branch visits required

  • Secure transactions with Shopee’s trusted financial backing and ecommerce ecosystem

Bank Account Features

  • Application: Online via SeaBank mobile app

  • Requirements:

    • 1 valid government-issued ID

    • Active mobile number & email

  • Turnaround Time: Instant

  • Debit Card Application: Physical card upon request for a fee.

📌 Start here: Apply For SeaBank | SeaBank Philippines

How to Open an Account

  1. Download the SeaBank App.

  2. Tap “Open an Account” and enter your details.

  3. Upload a valid ID and take a selfie for verification.

  4. Wait for instant approval.

  5. Access your virtual debit card via the app.

  6. You can order a physical card upon request with a fee.

9. Maya Bank

Overview

Maya Bank offers a unique all-in-one platform combining digital banking, savings, credit, and cryptocurrency features, all in a single app.

Why Choose This Bank?

  • All-in-one app for banking, payments, and investments

  • Competitive interest rates with rewards for active users

  • Free virtual card and optional physical card for ₱250

  • Fully digital application process with instant approval

  • Backed by PayMaya, ensuring strong security and reliability

Bank Account Features

  • Application: Directly through the Maya app

  • Requirements:

    • Fully verified Maya account

    • At least 18 years old

  • Turnaround Time: Instant

  • Debit Card Application: ₱250 for a physical Maya Card (ordered via app)

📌 Start here: Leading Digital Bank in the Philippines | Maya Bank

How to Open an Account

  1. Log in to the Maya app and go to the “Bank” section.

  2. Tap “Open a Savings Account”.

  3. Agree to the terms and verify details.

  4. Your account will be instantly created.

  5. To get a debit card, order the Maya Card from the app for ₱250.

10. Tonik Bank

Overview

Tonik Bank is a fully digital neobank that focuses on high-interest savings and lending, offering one of the best interest rates in the market.

Why Choose This Bank?

  • Up to 6% p.a. interest on savings

  • Instant account opening with no paperwork required

  • No hidden fees or maintaining balance

  • Secure and seamless transactions via the Tonik mobile app

Bank Account Features

  • Application: Online via Tonik Bank mobile app

  • Requirements:

    • 1 valid government-issued ID

    • Active mobile number & email

  • Turnaround Time: Instant

  • Debit Card Application: Virtual debit card available immediately

📌 Start here: Tonik Bank: Philippines’ First Digital Bank

How to Open an Account

  1. Download the Tonik Bank App.

  2. Tap "Sign Up" and enter your details.

  3. Upload a valid ID and take a selfie for KYC verification.

  4. Once approved, access your virtual debit card.

  5. For a physical debit card, apply via the app (coming soon).

11. UNO Digital Bank

Overview

UNO Digital Bank provides a full suite of digital banking services, including high-yield savings accounts and digital lending solutions.

Why Choose This Bank?

  • High-interest rates for savings and time deposits

  • Fully digital account opening with real-time verification

  • Secure mobile banking experience with biometric authentication

  • No maintaining balance required

Bank Account Features

  • Application: Online via UNO Digital Bank app

  • Requirements:

    • 1 valid government-issued ID

    • Active mobile number & email

  • Turnaround Time: Instant

  • Debit Card Application: Virtual card issued immediately

📌 Start here: UNOBank – UNO Digital Bank

How to Open an Account

  1. Download the UNO Digital Bank App.

  2. Tap "Open an Account" and provide your details.

  3. Upload a valid ID and take a selfie.

  4. Account is approved instantly.

  5. Virtual debit card is available immediately via the app.

12. UnionBank

Overview

UnionBank is one of the most technologically advanced banks in the Philippines, offering digital-first banking with free virtual cards and seamless online transactions.

Why Choose This Bank?

  • Free virtual card upon account opening

  • Quick and easy online application process

  • Strong security features and fraud protection

  • Seamless transactions with online banking integrations

Bank Account Features

  • Application: Online via UnionBank mobile app

  • Requirements:

    • 1 valid government-issued ID

    • Active mobile number & email

  • Turnaround Time: Within 24 hours

  • Debit Card Application: Free upon request

📌 Start here: Open an Account | UnionBank of the Philippines

How to Open an Account

  1. Download the UnionBank Mobile App.

  2. Tap "Open an Account" and choose a savings account type.

  3. Fill in your personal details and upload an ID.

  4. Take a selfie for identity verification.

  5. Wait for approval within 24 hours.

  6. Request your debit card via the app (free).

13. UnionDigital Bank

Overview

UnionDigital Bank is UnionBank’s fully digital subsidiary, focusing on high-yield savings and credit products for digital-savvy users.

Why Choose This Bank?

  • Instant online account opening with real-time approval

  • High-interest rates for savings and digital lending options

  • Secure and user-friendly mobile banking app

Bank Account Features

  • Application: Online via UnionDigital app

  • Requirements:

    • 1 valid government-issued ID

    • Active mobile number & email

  • Turnaround Time: Instant

  • Debit Card Application: Virtual debit card only

📌 Start here: UnionDigital Bank (Ubeh bank)

How to Open an Account

  1. Download the UnionDigital Bank App.

  2. Sign up using your email and mobile number.

  3. Provide personal details and upload a valid ID.

  4. Take a selfie for verification.

  5. Once approved, access your virtual debit card via the app.

14. Maybank Philippines Inc.

Overview

Maybank’s iSave account offers digital savings with a free virtual debit card, providing an easy entry point into banking for young professionals.

Why Choose This Bank?

  • Instant approval with no initial deposit required

  • Free virtual debit card for online transactions

  • Strong security features and biometric authentication

Bank Account Features

  • Application: Online via Maybank2U PH app

  • Requirements:

    • 1 valid government-issued ID

    • Active mobile number & email

    • Filipino citizen, at least 18 years old

  • Turnaround Time: Instant or within 24 hours

  • Debit Card Application: Physical debit card available upon request at a branch

📌 Start here: iSave | Maybank Philippines

How to Open an Account

  1. Download the Maybank2U PH app (available on Android and iOS).

  2. Tap "Open an Account" and select iSave Account.

  3. Enter your personal details (name, birthday, mobile number, email).

  4. Upload a valid ID and take a selfie for verification.

  5. Set up your username and password for online banking.

  6. Wait for approval (usually instant or within 24 hours).

  7. Access your virtual debit card through the app.

  8. To get a physical debit card, visit a Maybank branch and request one.

15. Philippine National Bank (PNB)

Overview

PNB’s digital savings account allows customers to open an account online while still benefiting from the bank’s nationwide branch network.

Why Choose This Bank?

  • One of the largest and most established banks in the country

  • Free debit card upon account activation

  • Secure online banking platform with full branch support

Bank Account Features

  • Application: Online via PNB website 

  • Requirements:

    • 1 valid government-issued ID

    • Active mobile number & email

    • Filipino citizen, at least 18 years old

  • Turnaround Time: 3-5 business days

  • Debit Card Application: Free upon account activation

📌 Start here: Online Account Application - Philippine National Bank

How to Open an Account

  1. Visit the PNB website and go to the "Open an Account" section.

  2. Select the type of account you want (e.g., PNB Passbook Savings, PNB Debit Savings).

  3. Fill out the online application form with your personal details.

  4. Upload a scanned copy of your valid ID.

  5. Submit the application and wait for approval (3-5 business days).

  6. Visit the nearest PNB branch to claim your debit card and complete the KYC verification.

  7. Download the PNB Digital App to manage your account online.

Final Thoughts

Opening a bank account in the Philippines has never been easier, thanks to the growing adoption of digital banking. With many banks now offering quick and hassle-free online applications, Filipinos can access financial services with just a few clicks. Whether you’re a first-time account holder or looking for a more convenient banking experience, exploring these digital options can save you time and effort.

Before choosing a bank, consider factors like fees, features, and accessibility to ensure you pick the right account for your needs. By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to securing a bank account that fits your financial goals and lifestyle—whether for everyday banking, online transactions, or investment opportunities like Rampver Online.

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