What is Xapo Bank, and who is it for?
Xapo Bank is a Gibraltar-licensed private digital bank, founded in 2014 by Wences Casares, one of the earliest Bitcoin evangelists. Unlike a simple crypto exchange, it is a regulated bank: you get a real USD account, a VISA card accepted worldwide, and bank-grade Bitcoin custody, all in the same app.
It is built for international profiles: expats, digital nomads and Bitcoin users who live outside the US and the UK. If you want to hold your savings in dollars without depending on a US bank, and add Bitcoin exposure securely, it is one of the most solid options for non-US/UK residents worldwide.
Requirements to open a Xapo Bank account
Before you start, check the conditions and have your documents ready. This avoids rejections and speeds up verification:
- Be 18 or older.
- Not be a resident of the US or the UK. This is a program condition, not an obstacle if you live in Europe, Latin America, Asia or elsewhere.
- Valid passport (the primary accepted ID).
- Proof of address: a recent utility bill or bank statement in your name.
- Selfie for the biometric KYC verification.
- Initial deposit: requested after approval, to activate the account.
How to open your Xapo Bank account in 4 steps
The whole process is online. Signup takes about 10 to 15 minutes; the rest depends on Xapo's verification timeline.
Start the online application
Go to application.xapo.com, create your access with your email and begin the application. If you want the welcome bonus, enter the referral code UGD-NEB-JZ at this step (or use our link, which applies it automatically).
Complete KYC verification
Upload your passport, your proof of address and a selfie. Xapo reviews your application: approval takes a few days to 2 weeks depending on your profile and country.
Activate membership and deposit
Once approved, activate your paid membership and make the initial deposit. You can now use your USD account, move funds and manage your Bitcoin.
Receive your card and your bonus
Your VISA card arrives by mail. If you signed up with the referral code, after 33 consecutive days as a paid member you receive USD 500 in Bitcoin, one-time, in your Xapo wallet.
All applications are subject to Xapo Bank approval. Make sure your proof of address is in your name and recent, and that you are not listed as a US or UK resident. If you want the bonus, the referral code must be entered during signup: it cannot be added afterwards.
How much does it cost to open and keep a Xapo Bank account?
Starting the application is free. Xapo Bank runs on a paid annual membership: current amounts are published on their website. If you open your account with a valid referral code, the USD 500 in Bitcoin bonus comfortably covers the first-year cost. That is why it pays to apply the code from the first step: it is the difference between paying the membership out of pocket or covering it with the bonus.
Open my account with the USD 500 bonus
Code UGD-NEB-JZ applied automatically with our link
Start nowWhat you get with your Xapo Bank account
USD account
A real USD account with international routing details. Hold your savings in dollars without depending on a US bank.
Worldwide VISA card
Physical VISA card delivered in most countries. Accepted everywhere, no hidden FX fees abroad.
Bitcoin custody
Custodial Bitcoin wallet with bunker-grade storage. Buy, sell and hold BTC inside the same app.
Yield on USD and BTC
Earn yield on your USD and your Bitcoin. Make your cash work without locking up your funds.
Bank-grade security
Network of physical bunkers for custody, top-tier digital protection, Gibraltar banking license.
For expats and nomads
Built for people who live and work internationally. No US or UK address needed.
Frequently asked questions about opening a Xapo Bank account
What do I need to open a Xapo Bank account?
Be 18+, a non-resident of the US and the UK, with a valid passport, a proof of address and a selfie for biometric verification. The application is 100% online and subject to Xapo Bank approval.
How long does it take?
The online signup takes 10 to 15 minutes. Xapo's KYC verification generally takes a few days to two weeks depending on your profile and country of residence.
Can I open an account as a non-resident?
Yes. Xapo Bank accepts most countries as long as you are not a tax resident of the US or the UK. Final approval is up to Xapo.
Do I need a US or UK address?
No, quite the opposite: to be eligible you must not be a resident of the US or the UK. Xapo Bank is designed for international profiles.
Can I get a bonus when opening my account?
Yes, if you apply with a valid referral code during signup. Our code is UGD-NEB-JZ: it entitles you to USD 500 in Bitcoin after 33 days as a paid member, no minimum balance. Full details on our Xapo Bank referral code page.
Can I use Xapo Bank for my LLC?
No, Xapo Bank is a personal bank, not business. For your LLC's account, see our Wise Business page.