Personal accounts: Bosnia and Herzegovina

Updated 5 October 2026

An honest assessment before work starts, the quote is fixed in writing.

A personal account in Bosnia and Herzegovina is opened by those moving here to live or work, buying a flat in Sarajevo, Mostar, Banja Luka or Trebinje, earning rental income or visiting often. The banking system consists mainly of subsidiaries of European groups, and the convertible mark is pegged to the euro at 1.95583 marks per euro. A non-resident can open an account on a passport, without a local address.

Who can open a personal account

A non-resident account

A non-resident account is opened without registration at an address in Bosnia: on a passport or photo ID with signature. It can receive and send transfers and pay local bills and property costs. For large inflows the bank asks for documents on the origin of money, and for transfers abroad a payment basis.

Transfers abroad and rules for non-residents

A non-resident can freely transfer money from their account abroad, but for large amounts the bank asks for a payment basis: a contract, invoice or document on the sale of assets. Inflows from abroad are also checked: the bank asks about the sender and purpose. If the account is for regular pension or rent receipts, it is easier to state this on the form and attach supporting documents - then there are no questions with each payment.

Banks have branches in all major cities - Sarajevo, Banja Luka, Mostar, Tuzla, Trebinje - so the account is opened where you live or buy a home.

How the account is opened

• A branch visit with your passport.
• A form covering the account's purpose, source of funds and tax residence.
• For residents, the residence card and proof of address.
• The account, card and online banking are usually ready within 1-7 days.

Banks charge a small monthly fee for the account and card, and service packages differ in limits and the cost of transfers abroad. We compare suitable banks' tariffs for your amounts and transfer frequency.

An account for buying a home

When buying a flat, money is moved to a Bosnian account in advance, and payment to the seller goes through the bank after the contract is certified by a notary. The bank and notary check the source of funds, so we prepare statements and income documents before the transfer. The account is also needed for property tax, utilities and receiving rent.

Currency, deposit protection and tax

Accounts are opened in convertible marks and euros. The Deposit Insurance Agency guarantees deposits up to KM 70,000, about $40,100, per depositor per bank. The bank withholds tax on interest at the rate of its entity's law. If you spend more than 183 days a year in the country you become tax resident and declare income here.

Why banks refuse

• The account's purpose is not explained while large inflows from abroad are expected.
• The source of funds is not documented.
• Citizenship or payment countries on a higher-risk list.
• The account is wanted for third-party transfers.

How we help

We choose a bank for your goal, prepare the form and source of funds documents, and accompany the branch visit. If you are buying property or relocating, we tie the account to the deal and residence permit.

What we do

• Personal account - opening assistance

See also

Business account · Investment property · All country programs

FAQ