Opening a bank account in a foreign country can feel like navigating a maze of confusing paperwork. But in Cambodia, ABA Bank has become the go-to choice for expats and foreigners for one simple reason: it’s incredibly straightforward.
You’ll be surprised to find that the process is not only simple but can often be completed in less than 20 minutes. The ABA Mobile app even lets you start your account without stepping into a branch and handles high-value transactions with live facial recognition for peace of mind. This guide covers every path, from in‑branch applications to the fully digital option, so you can pick the method that suits you best and get your account ready to use as quickly as possible.
📜 Understanding ABA’s Specific Requirements for Foreigners
Before you start, it helps to know exactly what ABA will ask for. The bank has three main requirements, which apply whether you open your account in person or through the mobile app.
1. Age Requirement
You must be at least 18 years old. This is a straightforward, non-negotiable rule.
2. Valid Foreign Passport with a Long‑Stay Visa
Your passport needs to be valid and have a long-stay visa. The most commonly accepted visas are the E-class (Ordinary) visa and its EB (Business) extension.
- Important: Inconsistent information exists online about a minimum visa validity period; to be completely safe, ensure your visa is valid for at least one month from the day you plan to open the account.
3. Proof of Residential Status
ABA requires official proof that you live in Cambodia. You can satisfy this with any one of the following documents:
- A valid rental contract for an apartment or house that has at least six months remaining.
- A certificate of residential address.
- Your employment contract showing that you are employed in Cambodia for at least six months.
- Your business license if you are self-employed.
4. Local Cambodian Phone Number
While not listed on the official website, having a local SIM card is necessary to receive OTPs for transactions and to activate mobile banking. You can easily purchase one at any local phone shop.
🏦 Choosing Your Type of Account
ABA offers different types of accounts. Understanding their core differences will help you choose the right one for your needs.
📝 Two Paths to Opening Your Account: Branch vs. Mobile
ABA offers you a clear choice: you can do everything in person at a branch, or you can enjoy the speed and convenience of opening an account from your phone.
🏢 Path 1: Opening Your Account at an ABA Branch
This is the traditional, in-person method. It’s a great choice if you prefer face-to-face guidance or want your physical passbook and ATM card immediately.
A. Prepare Your Documents
Gather the following documents, ensuring all information is clear and matches your other documents:
- Your original, valid passport containing your valid long-stay visa.
- Your proof of residential status, such as your rental contract.
- Your local Cambodian phone number (SIM card).
B. Visit an ABA Branch with Your Documents
Go to any ABA branch and inform the staff you want to open a personal account. The process is usually fast and can take as little as 20 to 40 minutes.
C. Complete the Paperwork and Verification
You will be given an application form to fill out in English. A bank officer will then take a photo of you and process your application.
D. Fund Your New Account and Receive Your Banking Essentials
You will need to make an initial deposit to activate your account. While the official minimum is $0 for a savings account, some branches may ask for a small deposit of $10 or $50 to open a current account.
E. Activate Your ABA Mobile App
Before you leave, the bank officer will help you download and activate the ABA Mobile app on your phone. This is perhaps the most crucial step, as it’s how you will manage nearly all of your banking needs moving forward.
📱 Path 2: Opening Your Account via the ABA Mobile App
This is the modern, faster, and fully digital method. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to skip the paperwork and start banking immediately, but you will need to visit a branch later to get your physical ATM card.
A. Download the ABA Mobile App and Start the Process
Download the “ABA Mobile” app from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei AppGallery. Open the app and select the option to open a new account.
B. Complete Digital eKYC (Know Your Customer)
The app will guide you through the digital identity verification process (eKYC), which involves the following steps:
- Capturing a photo of your passport’s data page.
- Taking a live selfie for facial matching.
- Entering the required personal information, including your address.
- Uploading your proof of residency, such as a photo of your rental contract or employment certificate.
C. Review and Confirm Your Application
Once your digital application is submitted, ABA will review it. Approval is often very quick, sometimes taking less than an hour.
D. Fund Your Account to Activate It
To fully activate your account, you will likely need to make an initial deposit. This can be done by transferring funds into the account from another bank or by making a cash deposit at an ABA branch or ATM.
E. Visit a Branch to Get Your Physical ATM Card (Don’t Worry, It’s Quick)
Your account will be active, and you can use the app for transfers. However, to withdraw cash, you will need your physical ATM card. To get it, you must visit any ABA branch for a quick, final identity verification. Just bring your original passport.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions: Common Queries Answered
Here are the answers to the most common questions about opening an ABA account in Cambodia:
- Can I open an account with a tourist (T-class) visa?
Technically, the official rule requires a long‑stay visa, and the bank may reject a tourist visa application. However, some expats report being able to open an account with a fresh 30‑day visa on arrival, depending on the branch’s policies. The safest course is to have an E-class visa. - What if I don’t have a rental contract yet?
If you are staying in a hotel or serviced apartment, a booking confirmation or bill showing your name and the hotel’s address can sometimes be accepted as proof of address. Your employment contract is also an acceptable alternative. - What fees should I be aware of?
Basic accounts have no monthly fees and no minimum balance requirements. The most common fees to be aware of are: - Is ABA Bank safe?
Yes, ABA Bank is considered one of the largest and most stable banks in Cambodia. It is a subsidiary of the National Bank of Canada, a major international financial institution. The ABA Mobile app is also highly secure, featuring live facial recognition (“FacePass Secure”) to protect high-value transactions. - How does ABA compare to ACLEDA?
ABA is generally preferred by expats for its superior digital app and lower international transfer fees. ACLEDA, with its vast branch network, is often preferred in rural areas. In direct comparison, ABA generates significantly more revenue, indicating its market leadership. ABA uses the SWIFT codeABAAKHPP. You can also open a USD account directly without needing a local co-signer, making it much more practical for foreigners to get started. - What about fixed deposit interest rates?
Interest rates on fixed deposits (also known as term deposits) vary by term and currency. For up-to-date rates, it is best to check the ABA Bank website or the ABA Mobile app, where promotional rates are often available.
Making the Smart Choice
The guide above has shown you that opening an ABA account is a straightforward process. For most people, the Mobile Savings Account opened via the ABA Mobile app is the best choice.
This “mobile-first” method has several clear advantages:
- It’s faster and more convenient. You can start the process from anywhere without needing to visit a branch first.
- It’s perfectly suited for everyday digital life. The app itself is your bank, and its innovative features, like the “FacePass Secure” live facial recognition for authorizing high-value transactions, are at the forefront of digital security in Cambodia. You can also track your spending with the in-app financial analytics tool to see exactly where your money goes.
- It’s future-proof. You will be set up to use all of ABA’s innovative digital features from day one.
Once you have chosen the account type that fits your life, you can confidently move forward, knowing that you have the reliable and innovative partner you need to manage your finances in Cambodia.
