Opening a bank account in Honduras as a foreigner isn't difficult, but it's bureaucratic. Different banks have slightly different requirements, the paperwork expectations shift without warning, and your first visit almost never goes perfectly. At Mudanzas Gamundi, we've walked dozens of expats through this process. Here's how it actually works in 2026.
The Main Banks to Consider
- Banco Atlántida: Honduras's oldest bank, widespread branch network, solid for day-to-day banking. Popular with locals.
- BAC Honduras: Regional bank with excellent digital banking, English-speaking staff at flagship branches. Top choice for expats who want clean digital tools.
- Ficohsa: Strong US-Honduras remittance corridors, good digital tools, broad ATM network.
- Banco de Occidente: More traditional, great in western Honduras, good service but fewer digital features.
For most expats, we recommend BAC Honduras or Ficohsa. Better digital banking, more English support, and they handle international wires more cleanly.
What You'll Need as a Foreigner
- Passport (original plus copies of every page)
- Residency card if you have it — makes everything easier
- Valid long-stay visa if residency is still pending
- Proof of Honduran address — utility bill, lease, or landlord letter
- Proof of income or funds source — pension letter, foreign bank statements, employment letter
- RTN (Registro Tributario Nacional) — Honduras tax ID, applied for separately at SAR
- Initial deposit — typically $100-$500 depending on account type
- Reference letters — some banks still ask for these
Getting Your RTN First
The RTN is Honduras's tax identification number — required for bank accounts, signing contracts, and various formal processes. Get it at a SAR (tax authority) office with your passport. Takes 1-3 business days and is free. Do this before attempting to open a bank account.
What to Expect at the Bank
Best case: you walk in with complete paperwork and walk out with an account the same day. Realistic case: 1-3 business days. Debit cards arrive in 5-10 business days.
Pro tip: Make an appointment with the branch manager or account executive rather than just walking in. The level of service changes dramatically when you're an expected appointment.
USD Accounts: They Exist and They're Useful
All major Honduran banks offer both Lempira (HNL) and US Dollar (USD) accounts. The standard expat setup is dual: USD account receives international transfers, Lempira account handles day-to-day local spending. This minimizes conversion costs if your income arrives in dollars.
International Transfers
BAC and Ficohsa handle incoming SWIFT transfers without issue. Outgoing transfers are possible but may require additional documentation for larger amounts. Many expats use Wise (Transferwise) in parallel for regular transfers abroad — it's cheaper than traditional bank wire fees.
How This Connects to Your Move
When you coordinate an international move to Honduras with Mudanzas Gamundi, having a local bank account often makes the final delivery and local expenses smoother. Our team can point you toward useful resources before you arrive and answer practical questions about the setup process.
Get your move to Honduras quote here — and tell us what else you need to know to prepare.