How to Open a BDO Kabayan Savings Account for OFWs - The Pinoy OFW (2024)

In a previous post, we shared about how you can open a Metrobank savings account. Today, we are going to talk about another trusted financial institution in the Philippines: BDO. BDO offers an affordable savings bank account for OFWs and seafarers called BDO Kabayan Savings Account. Here we share details on the requirements, features and benefits, process on how to apply, and reminders about this type of product.

Also Read:Reminder for OFWs with BDO Kabayan Savings to Avoid P300 Monthly Deduction

For Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), there are few things that are more important than saving money. Even if you stay abroad for many years, but are unable to save — then all your hard work would be in vain! Fortunately, BDO Unibank offers a financial service specially designed for OFWs and their families.

Contents

  • BDO Kabayan Account for Overseas Filipino Workers and Seafarers
  • BDO OFW Account Requirements
  • How to Apply for a BDO Kabayan Savings Account
  • Seaman BDO Kabayan Savings Account for Seafarers
  • How Much are the Fees and Interest Rates for BDO Kabayan savings Withdrawal Abroad?
  • What is the BDO Kabayan Savings Maintaining Balance?
  • How to Get FREEFree Life and Accident Insurance with BDO Kabayan
    • Qualifications
    • Requirements
    • BDO Insurance Application Process
  • Additional BDO Kabayan Services and OFW Loans
  • Video: Remit to BDO Kabayan Account
How to Open a BDO Kabayan Savings Account for OFWs - The Pinoy OFW (1)

BDO Kabayan Account for Overseas Filipino Workers and Seafarers

To hardworking Filipinos abroad, the bank offers the BDO Kabayan Savings Account. BDO Kabayan Savings aims to build a relationship between BDO Unibank and Filipinos abroad.

Through this service, BDO promises financial security, speed, and convenience. The account may be opened by OFWs and their families at any BDO Unibank branch in the Philippines.

Features & Benefits of BDO Kabayan Account

In case you are wondering what are the features and benefits of getting this account, please see the following items below:

  • Fast and Safe Remittance – You can credit your account instantly when you deposit money from an Exchange Center to your BDO Savings account.
  • Convenient Withdrawals – Your family can easily withdraw the money you send from abroad quickly and easily as tehre are many BDO ATM locations, Megalink, Bancnet, and Expressnet ATM locations in the Philippines.
  • Cashless Shopping – Easily pay for shopping using your BDO Kabayan Account through SM stores and other accredited merchants.
  • Passbook & ATM card – Comes with a passbook & ATM debit card
  • Zero maintaining balance – so long as you deposit money/remit once (1) per 2 years
  • FREE Accident & Life Insurance – so long as you remit at least 6 times in a year.
  • BDO Rewards Points – Savings & remittances earn BDO Rewards points

NOTE: If the account holder fails to remit at least once within 2 years, the BDO Kabayan Savings Account is converted into a regular account with a PHP 2,000 maintaining balance. Once it becomes a regular savings account, there will be a deduction of PHP 300 every month IF you do not meet the PHP 2,000 maintaining balance.

How to Open a BDO Kabayan Savings Account for OFWs - The Pinoy OFW (2)

BDO OFW Account Requirements

To open a BDO Kabayan Savings Account, you need to prepare:

  • One (1) 1×1 ID picture
  • One (1) Valid ID. BDO accepts company IDs as well as government-issued IDs (e.g. passport, UMID, Voter’s ID, PRC ID, OWWA ID, etc.)
  • Initial Deposit. To open a peso account, you only need to make an initial deposit of PHP 100. Meanwhile, to open a dollar account, you will need USD 100.

NOTE: Seafarers who are employed by POEA-accredited companies may send their allotment directly to a BDO Kabayan Shipping Dollar Account. They only need to submit one (1) 1×1 ID picture, one (1) valid ID, and a valid seaman’s book. The initial deposit required is USD 10.

How to Apply for a BDO Kabayan Savings Account

Here is a step-by-step guide to opening a BDO Kabayan Savings Account:

  1. Bring the above requirements to the BDO Unibank branch nearest you.
  2. Fill out a BDO Kabayan applicationform with true and accurate information.
  3. Make the required initial deposit and keep the deposit slip.
  4. After five (5) business days, bring the deposit slip to claim your passbook and ATM card.
  5. Enroll your account for online banking and phone banking for greater convenience (optional).

How to Open a BDO Kabayan Savings Account for OFWs - The Pinoy OFW (3)

Seaman BDO Kabayan Savings Account for Seafarers

For seamen and sea women who are employed by POEA-accredited shipping companies, you may open a BDO Kabayan Shipping Dollar Account where you can directly credit their allotment.

Only a USD $10 initial deposit, one (1) valid ID with picture, one (1) 1×1 ID picture, and a valid seaman’s book are needed to open an account.

How Much are the Fees and Interest Rates for BDO Kabayan savings Withdrawal Abroad?

In case you are wondering how much you will pay or what are the rates if you make a transaction via ATM machine using your BDO Kabayan savings ATM, then here are the following fees:

  • Balance Inquiry – US$ 1.00 – for Balance Inquiries
  • Withdrawal – US$ 3.50 – for Withdrawals
  • US$ 1.00 – for unsuccessful ATM transactions such as wrong PIN, insufficient funds, exceeds limit, etc.
  • An assessment fee of 1% plus service fee of 1% of the converted amount – for purchases abroad as this is the Foreign Exchange Conversion fee

Note: The equivalent conversion will rate will be applied depending on the country where you are making the transaction.

What is the BDO Kabayan Savings Maintaining Balance?

An important note for all account holders of BDO Kabayan Savings ATM. While there is ZERO maintaining balance for this type of account, you must remit/deposit money at least once every 2 years to take advantage of this feature.

Because if you do not remit at least once every 2 years, this account will be converted to a Regular BDO ATM account and you will need to maintain a balance of PHP 2,000.

How to Get FREEFree Life and Accident Insurance with BDO Kabayan

So as mentioned, one of the great benefits, if you remit via BDO Kabayan, is that you can get a life and accident insurance for FREE. To qualify, you have to remit with 6 transactions per year and you should maintain a balance of PHP 25,000.

The insured amount is 50% of ADB plus 50% of total remittances in the last 12 months not exceeding PHP1M per enrolled remitter.

Below are more details about the BDO Kabayan Life and Accident Insurance:

Qualifications

  • 18-65 years old
  • Accountholder of BDO Kabayan Savings ATM

Requirements

  • 6 remittance in the last 12 months
  • 25,000 PHP Average Daily Balance

BDO Insurance Application Process

  1. BDO Kabayan insurance applicant should fill out the online form here – https://www.bdoremit.com.ph/RemittanceSystem/AKPromoForm
  2. Applicant must have at least 6 remittance transactions in the last 12 months
  3. Applicant must have an average daily balance (ADB) of at least PHP 25,000 maintained in the BDO Account.
  4. Submit the application online. The enrolled remitter is covered by insurance for every month above requirements are met.
How to Open a BDO Kabayan Savings Account for OFWs - The Pinoy OFW (4)

Additional BDO Kabayan Services and OFW Loans

Over time, once you have established good credit history with BDO, it would be easier to apply for the following loans:

  • BDO Kabayan Auto Loan
  • BDO Kabayan Home Loan
  • BDO Kabayan Personal Loan

Paying for these BDO loans available for OFWs is made easier through the bank’s auto-debit arrangement (ADA) with BDO Kabayan Savings Account holders.

Video: Remit to BDO Kabayan Account

Below is a video from BDO Unibank regarding the Kabayan account and remittance:

DISCLAIMER: The details presented above are for information-sharing purposes only. To learn more about opening a BDO Kabayan Savings Account, please visit the BDO Unibank official website.

How to Open a BDO Kabayan Savings Account for OFWs - The Pinoy OFW (2024)

FAQs

What are the requirements to get Kabayan account in BDO? ›

Only $10 initial deposit, one (1) valid ID with picture and a valid seaman's book or Marina ID are needed to open an account. Remit to the account at least once within two (2) years to continue enjoying the no maintaining balance feature.

How can I open BDO Kabayan savings account online? ›

It takes 10-20 minutes to complete.
  1. Fill out the online forms.
  2. Upload a photo of your 2 valid IDs, signature, and yourself holding a valid ID.
  3. Meet a BDO representative via Zoom video call for account opening evaluation.
  4. Make your initial deposit online or at the branch.

How can I open BDO account in USA? ›

Here's how to open a US Dollar Savings account online:
  1. Passport (with English characters)
  2. Driver's License issued by LTO.
  3. Professional Regulations Commission (PRC) ID.
  4. Unified Multi- Purpose ID (UMID)
  5. Social Security System (SSS) ID.
  6. Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) ID.
  7. School ID (for minors)
  8. NBI Clearance.

Can I open a BDO account online while abroad? ›

For clients enrolling outside the Philippines:

Click “Online Banking Login” > “Enroll Now”. Select “Outside the Philippines” , fill-out the form and click on “Submit”. Wait for a call from our BDO Customer Service Officer to verify your enrollment within five (5) working days.

Can I use BDO Kabayan savings internationally? ›

The Kabayan Dollar Savings Account is a US Dollar Denominated (USD) fixed interest-bearing savings account designed for Overseas Filipino Workers and their beneficiaries. They can deposit and withdraw through the passbook and also will be given an international ATM card.

Can I open a bank account online without going to the bank in BDO? ›

Open a BDO account without stepping into a branch. Now you can enjoy the features of a BDO Account and access it easily via Online Banking! Instead of a branch visit, all you have to do is join a Zoom video call from the safety and comfort of your own home.

How much is the maximum deposit in BDO Kabayan savings? ›

Earns higher interest rate than a regular savings account. Insured with PDIC up to Php 500,000.00 per depositor.

Can I open a Philippine bank account online while abroad? ›

Can I open a bank account from abroad? Due to documentation requirements, it isn't possible to open a Philippine bank account online. However, that doesn't mean you have to wait until you move to get started.

How can I create Kabayan account in BDO? ›

To open a BDO Kabayan Savings Account, visit any BDO Unibank branch and bring one valid ID with photo and an initial deposit of P100. Please note that physical presence at BDO Unibank branches is required.

Can I go directly to BDO to open an account? ›

Visit your BDO branch on your scheduled date and time. Proceed to the account opening section and present the reference and valid ID. An authorized BDO personnel will evaluate your application based on existing account opening policies of BDO.

How can I open a bank account in the Philippines from USA? ›

What are the requirements for opening a bank account in the Philippines?
  1. Two ID pictures (usually 1×1 or passport size).
  2. Proof of address, such as a utility bill or residential lease contract.
  3. Bank reference from the country where you're a citizen or a permanent resident. ...
  4. A minimum initial deposit, which varies by bank.

Can a US citizen open a BDO account in the Philippines? ›

Yes, as long as you have a valid resident visa and resident address in the Philippines. Just submit your Passport (with English characters) and a second ID from the list of acceptable IDs (i.e. ACR I-Card, National ID for select countries).

How much is BDO account opening? ›

Minimum initial deposit of Php 100.00.

Does BDO have branches in USA? ›

BDO USA's 80+ offices and more than 10,000 professionals are at your service – no matter where you do business.

How do I open an OFW bank account? ›

  1. Go to the nearest PNB Branch.
  2. Fill out the Account Opening Form and Signature Card.
  3. Submit the completed forms to the branch officer together with the requirements.
  4. Wait for your application to be processed and for your card to be issued.

How can I open an account in the Philippines while abroad? ›

It's not possible to open an account in the Philippines as a non-resident. All banks ask for proof of your address in the country. If you want to get started before you move, try an international bank who also operate in the Philippines.

What is the difference between BDO online and BDO digital banking? ›

What is the difference between “BDO Online Banking” and “BDO Digital Banking”? “BDO Online Banking” is what customers access via www.online.bdo.com.ph. “BDO Digital Banking” is the app that customers can download from Play Store, App Store, or AppGallery for their mobile device/s.

How can I transfer money from BDO Kabayan to USA? ›

How to transfer money to a Banco de Oro bank account
  1. Login to your account and add a new beneficiary. ...
  2. On the 'send' page, select your beneficiary or the person you're sending money to, then choose 'credit to account' as the delivery method.
Oct 5, 2020

Is BDO Kabayan savings Safe? ›

It is FAST and SAFE! Remittance is credited immediately to your or your beneficiary's BDO Kabayan Savings Account.

Can I use international number for BDO? ›

IAC is the access number required to be connected to the International Toll-Free No. of BDO Phone Banking, (IAC)+ 800-8-6318000. The required access no.
...
Body.
CountryInternational Telephone CompaniesInternational Access Code (IAC)
8. GERMANYDTAG00
9. HAWAIIGTE Hawaiian Tel. Co.011
10. HONGKONGReach HK001
22 more rows

Can I open a bank account online without going into a branch? ›

If you're looking to open a bank account, you can apply online, in branch or by phone.

How long does it take to open a BDO account? ›

Personalized debit cards can be picked up at your chosen BDO branch in 3 to 5 banking days (Metro Manila) or in 2 to 3 weeks (Provinces) after you receive the email confirmation that your account is opened. NOTE: You may be asked to submit additional documents at the BDO branch after further evaluation.

Can you open a bank account without documents? ›

You typically almost must provide some form of identification in order to open a bank account. If you live in California and have a driver's license through the AB-60 program, you can use your driver's license as a form of identification. You also can use an unexpired passport, consular ID card, or birth certificate.

How much is the interest rate of BDO Kabayan? ›

Interest rate – 0.125% p.a.

How much is the maximum withdrawal per day in BDO? ›

With BDO ATMs, you may:

Withdraw up to Php 50,000.00 cash per day* Transfer money (Fund Transfer) to enrolled or unenrolled BDO accounts or select MegaLink-member bank accounts.

How much is BDO daily transfer limit? ›

USD 5,000

Can I open a bank account online without going to the bank in the Philippines? ›

Do you want to open a savings account without going to the bank? Thanks to digital banks like CIMB Bank, Tonik, and Maya Bank (formerly PayMaya), they let you open an account through their mobile apps. You can even submit the required documentation in real time.

Which US bank has branch in Philippines? ›

The commercial banking system includes three U.S. foreign-branch banks: Citibank, which operates six full-service Citibank branches in key locations in Metro Manila and Metro Cebu; Bank of America; and JP Morgan Chase.

What is the best international bank in Philippines? ›

Philippines' best international bank 2022: Credit Suisse.

What is the benefits of BDO Kabayan savings? ›

Benefits of BDO Kabayan Saving Account

Withdraw anytime, anywhere from over 11,000 BDO, MegaLink, Expressnet and BancNet ATMs across the Philippines, and pay for items at SM and other accredited stores with point of sale (POS) terminals. It comes with a passbook so one can monitor remittance transactions.

Can I deposit check to my BDO Kabayan Savings Account? ›

Account Restriction BDO Kabayan Savings Account is being o ered primarily for crediting of remittances, coursed through BDO Remittance Unit. Only cash deposits shall be accepted over the counter. Check deposit may be accepted upon presentation of the required valid identification cards.

What is the MInimum balance in BDO savings account? ›

Junior Savers
ProductMInimum Initial DepositMinimum Balance to Earn Interest
Passbook SavingsPhp 5,000.00Php 10,000.00
ATM SavingsPhp 2,000.00Php 5,000.00
Optimum SavingsPhp 30,000.00 (Personal) Php 50,000.00 (Business)Php 30,000.00 (Personal) Php 50,000.00 (Business)
Junior SaversPhp 100.00Php 2,000.00
3 more rows

What documents do I need to open a bank account? ›

Acceptable Forms of ID for Banks
  1. Driver's license.
  2. REAL ID card.
  3. DoD ID card (also known as Department of Defense ID Card)
  4. Passport/Passport card.
  5. Social security card.
  6. Birth certificate.
Nov 16, 2022

Can I activate my BDO online banking without going to ATM? ›

To activate your BDO Mobile Banking account in your mobile phone, simply follow these steps:
  1. Go to SMART MENU on your mobile phone and select “Mobile Banking”.
  2. Select “Activate Bank” then press “o*k”.
  3. Select m-PIN to activate your bank then press “o*k”.
  4. Enter “BDO” when asked for the Bank Code then press “o*k”.

Why I cant open my BDO account? ›

You may have entered the wrong authentication details, resulting in a failed authentication attempt. Your account has been locked for security reasons. Please reset your password or call the BDO Contact Center.

Can I open a bank account in the Philippines as an OFW? ›

OFWs can visit any branch to open an overseas bank account or inquire about other financial services and products offered.

How long can a US citizen stay in the Philippines without a visa? ›

PHILIPPINE VISA POLICY

No visa required for a stay not exceeding thirty (30) days. Traveler must hold valid ticket for return journey to country of origin or next country of destination and a passport valid for a period of at least six (6) months beyond the stay in the Philippines.

How long can a Balikbayan stay in the Philippines? ›

Visitors who are admitted as balikbayan are given an initial stay of one (1) year. Their stay may be extended for an additional one (1), two (2) or six (6) months at the Visa Extension Section of a Bureau of immigration office.

How can I open BDO Kabayan account while abroad? ›

Overseas Filipinos and their beneficiaries may open a BDO Kabayan Savings online or at any BDO branch in the Philippines.
  1. Only PHP100 (for PHP account) or US$100 (for USD account) initial deposit.
  2. One (1) valid ID.
  3. With passbook and ATM debit card.
  4. Remit regularly & set aside money for your savings.

Who can open BDO Kabayan savings account? ›

Overseas Filipinos and their beneficiaries may open a BDO Kabayan Savings online or at any branch in the Philippines. Remitters may qualify for free life and accident insurance. Click here to register. Earn BDO Rewards points too from your savings and remittances!

Can I receive USD in my BDO peso account? ›

Body. At present, you can only Transfer Money between Peso to Peso Accounts or US Dollar to US Dollar Accounts only.

What is requirements for open account in BDO? ›

How to Open an Account at A BDO Branch
  • Passport (with English characters)
  • Driver's License issued by LTO.
  • Professional Regulations Commission (PRC) ID.
  • Unified Multi- Purpose ID (UMID)
  • Social Security System (SSS) ID.
  • Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) ID.
  • School ID (for minors)
  • NBI Clearance.

Can I use my BDO ATM in USA? ›

Your BDO Debit Card is accepted worldwide at ATMs and stores wherever Visa or Mastercard is accepted.

How do I contact BDO from USA? ›

If you are calling from USA you may call us at (+632) 631-8000 or toll-free via AT&T, MCI or Sprint 011+800-8-631-8000.

How can I send money from USA to BDO Philippines? ›

  1. For first-time users, create an account with your email and password. ...
  2. Enter the amount you wish to send.
  3. Select bank deposit or cash pickup, then choose BDO.
  4. Enter your recipient's information.
  5. Select your method of payment and enter your payment details.
  6. Give your details a quick review and press send.

Can I open a bank account in the Philippines while abroad? ›

Can I open a bank account from abroad? Due to documentation requirements, it isn't possible to open a Philippine bank account online. However, that doesn't mean you have to wait until you move to get started.

Can I open a bank account in the Philippines even if I am abroad? ›

YES, foreigners can open a bank account in the Philippines.

Even branches of the same bank might have different rules. Obviously, banks in communities with a lot of expats will be more ready to accommodate you, as they already have relevant experiences.

How do I get BDO OTP when abroad? ›

You will get your OTP if your registered international mobile number or local mobile number on international roaming is enabled to receive SMS. Do I pay anything for the OTP? It is free of charge except when your mobile number is on international roaming.

Can I open a bank account in the Philippines while I am in the USA? ›

Yes, a foreigner can open a bank account in the Philippines but the type of account you can open will depend on your status as a foreigner.

How do you open a bank account in the Philippines online for OFW? ›

Frequently Asked Questions
  1. Passport.
  2. Original employment contract (duly notarized and approved by POEA ) will be accepted together with at least a photocopy of passport.
  3. Drivers License.
  4. Professional (PRC) license.
  5. SSS/GSIS membership cards.
  6. OFW ID (issued by POEA/OWWA)
  7. NBI/Police clearance.

How long can a former Filipino stay in the Philippines? ›

The Philippines' BALIKBAYAN PROGRAM allows a one-year visa-free stay for Filipinos working overseas and for former Filipinos who have acquired citizenship in certain countries (refer to list of countries below).

Is it illegal to have an overseas bank account? ›

Is it legal to have an offshore bank account? There is nothing criminal about opening an offshore bank account. However, it is a crime to use an offshore account to avoid paying taxes or to attempt to shield funds from the U.S. government. Offshore banking should not be used for those purposes.

Can I receive OTP overseas Philippines? ›

In case you are overseas, you will still receive the OTP as long as you are subscribed to your Philippine network's international SMS service. You may incur additional charges from your network provider in this scenario.

Can I receive OTP while abroad? ›

Yes. You'll need to activate international roaming on your mobile phone before you travel overseas in order to receive the One-Time Pin (OTP). Contact your network provider as SMSs may incur an additional cost.

How can I receive OTP when abroad? ›

Use a Local SIM Card

A local SIM card is a SIM card that is associated with a local carrier in the country you are visiting. By using a local SIM card, you can access the local carrier's network and receive SMS OTPs from any country in the world.

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