When you apply for a bank account, you’ll need to provide proof of income. This could be a signed work contract, an income statement, recent payslips (issued within the last six months), or a company statement.
The document should meet the following specifications:
- Your full name (all given names + surname) should exactly match the one on your passport.
- All four corners of the document must be visible.
- All text should be clear and legible.
- There should be no shadows or glare.
- None of the details should be obscured (salary, account balances, etc).
- If the document isn’t in English, Portuguese, Spanish or French, please attach a certified English translation.
Can I use a job offer letter as proof of employment?
No, a job offer letter won’t suffice. But, a letter from your company, stating your employment from a specific date, would be acceptable.
What if I’m self-employed or a sole proprietor? What can I use as proof of employment?
As a self-employed individual, the bank needs evidence of your business ownership or the services you provide. This should be one of the following documents, issued within the last six months:
- A letter from a client or business partner stating you own your business. See example here
The client/business partner letter must meet these requirements:
- Dated and signed (issued within the last 6 months)
- Contains your complete name as seen on your passport
- Includes your company name (not necessary if you’re a freelancer)
- Specifies your income earned
- Written on your client or business partner’s official company letterhead
- States the commencement date of your work (i.e., when you began working with the client/business partner or when you launched your business)
