Start Banking for Your St Vincent Company
St Vincent and the Grenadines combines a business-friendly regulatory environment with access to Eastern Caribbean banking infrastructure. We assist your SVG entity through the account opening journey — ensuring the right banking setup for your international operations.
Remote opening
Your St Vincent and the Grenadines bank account is opened entirely from a distance. No island visit needed — the application process accommodates international business owners.
Multi-currency
While the Eastern Caribbean dollar serves as the local currency, corporate accounts provide access to USD, EUR, GBP, and additional denominations for global trade.
Global network
SVG's banking sector links to the wider Eastern Caribbean financial system and beyond, offering correspondent relationships that facilitate international payments and settlements.
No restrictions
International companies registered in St Vincent and the Grenadines face no exchange controls. Transfer funds to and from any country without currency movement barriers.
What Sets SVG Banking Apart?
How St. Vincent and the Grenadines supports banking access for international companies
SVG's Regulatory and Banking Environment
Regulated Financial Services Sector Under the FSA
St. Vincent and the Grenadines' Financial Services Authority provides structured oversight of international business companies, maintaining standards that facilitate banking relationships domestically and abroad.
No Capital Deposit Obligations for International Business Companies
IBCs registered in SVG are free from requirements to hold minimum capital in local accounts, offering full autonomy over how and where corporate funds are positioned.
ECCB Monetary Stability With Free Currency Movement for IBCs
The Eastern Caribbean dollar's fixed peg to the US dollar provides monetary predictability, while IBCs benefit from complete exemption from exchange controls on foreign currency transactions.
Advancing Compliance With International Regulatory Expectations
SVG has made measurable progress in aligning its financial regulatory framework with CFATF and OECD standards, improving the jurisdiction's profile with banks and correspondent networks.
Access to Caribbean and International Banking Relationships
SVG entities can bank with institutions across the Eastern Caribbean as well as with select international banks in Europe, Asia, and the Americas that serve offshore corporate clients.
What SVG Companies Gain From Banking
Multi-Currency Capabilities at Partner Banking Institutions
Open accounts in USD, EUR, GBP, and additional currencies through banks that work with SVG-incorporated companies, supporting international invoicing and diverse payment flows.
International Transfers Through Established SWIFT Channels
Banks servicing SVG companies connect to global SWIFT networks, enabling secure cross-border payments to suppliers, clients, and partners in any geography.
Digital Banking Access for Day-to-Day Account Management
Manage corporate finances through online banking portals that support balance checks, payment scheduling, and transaction history — accessible from anywhere with an internet connection.
Banking Services for a Wide Range of Business Types
Financial institutions that accept SVG entities typically accommodate diverse business models, from forex and digital services to international trade and professional consultancy.
Increasingly Streamlined Processes for Account Applications
As SVG strengthens its regulatory standing, banking partners continue to refine and simplify their onboarding procedures for the jurisdiction's international business companies.
Why Choose Expanship for SVG Banking Services
Opening a bank account for a St Vincent and the Grenadines company involves particular compliance expectations within the Eastern Caribbean banking framework. Our experience with SVG entities ensures your application is well-prepared and properly positioned.
Dedicated Banking Guidance
Our team understands the particular compliance and documentation requirements for banking a St Vincent and the Grenadines entity, providing informed support from start to finish.
Established Relationships
Your SVG company gains access to banking institutions familiar with Eastern Caribbean business structures and international corporate clients.
Documentation Handled
All paperwork for your SVG banking application is prepared and checked thoroughly before submission, reducing the chance of delays or rejections.
Efficient Processing
A methodical workflow helps your St Vincent banking application proceed smoothly, with each requirement addressed in the right sequence.
Regulatory Compliance
We prepare your application to satisfy SVG-specific banking regulations, ECCB compliance standards, and international AML requirements.
After-Opening Support
Our involvement does not end when the account is opened. We continue to assist with compliance, banking correspondence, and any issues that come up.
SVG Bank Account Setup Pricing
Upfront, one-time pricing for bank account opening assistance. Digital banking is free with incorporation, or opt for the unlimited package for broader coverage.
Digital Banking Package
Get started with a reliable digital banking partner quickly
What You Get
- Guided setup with one digital banking platform
Already part of our SVG incorporation packages
Unlimited Banking Package
What You Get
- Support with unlimited traditional bank applications
- Support with unlimited digital banking provider applications
Bank Selection Advice
Recommendations on banking providers aligned with SVG corporate structures and your business objectives
Application Preparation
Full review and formatting of application documents to meet each institution's submission criteria
Certified Document Handling
Certified corporate records and courier delivery to banks managed as add-on
Meeting Facilitation
Coordinating calls and meetings with banking representatives throughout the application timeline
SVG Bank Account Opening Steps
Secure a bank account for your SVG-incorporated company through a clear, managed process. We coordinate each phase to keep your application on track.
Identify banks that welcome SVG-incorporated entities
We identify banks that have experience working with SVG-registered companies and align with your business model, currency needs, and expected account activity.
Prepare documentation and complete the application
Our team collects, verifies, and organises every document the bank requires — from certificates of incorporation to proof of address for directors and shareholders.
Facilitate the bank's verification and review process
Throughout the bank's verification process, we act as your liaison, fielding compliance questions and delivering additional materials as efficiently as possible.
Obtain your banking approval and access your account
The bank shares its decision, and we support you through final onboarding. In cases of rejection, we move quickly to present alternative banking pathways.
SVG Banking Account Requirements
A complete overview of documents and information required to open a bank account for your SVG-registered company. We prepare everything on your behalf.
Certificate of Incorporation
Certificate issued by the SVG Financial Services Authority upon incorporation of the IBC
Articles of Incorporation
The IBC's governing document outlining corporate structure, share capital, and operational provisions
Certificate of Good Standing
Certificate from the SVG FSA confirming the company's good standing and compliance
Register of Directors
Current record of all directors appointed to the SVG international business company
Register of Members
Complete register of shareholders including ownership percentages and share class details
Certificate of Incumbency
Registered agent-issued document confirming the IBC's current directors, shareholders, and company status
Director Passport Copies
Certified copies of each director's valid passport, clearly showing photo and personal details
Residential Address Verification
Proof of address dated within 90 days — utility bill, bank letter, or government document
Director CV
Resume or professional profile detailing each director's career history and relevant expertise
Professional Reference Letters
References from banks, solicitors, or certified accountants attesting to the director's character
Business Plan
Document explaining the IBC's business activities, revenue strategy, and intended markets
Financial Projections
Estimated revenue, expenses, and cash flow projections over a 12 to 24 month horizon
Expected Account Usage
Description of planned transaction activity, including volumes, values, and key currencies
Source of Funds Documentation
Proof of the lawful origin of funds that will be deposited into the corporate account
Key Client and Supplier Information
Summary of the company's principal business relationships and operating jurisdictions
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to key questions about bank account opening and ongoing banking for SVG international business companies
The process usually takes 2 to 6 weeks, influenced by document completeness, the bank's compliance review schedule, and the complexity of your ownership structure. A well-prepared application can help speed things up.
Yes, numerous banks offer remote account opening for SVG companies through video calls and electronic documentation. Certain banks may request an initial in-person meeting, though this is becoming less common.
Opening deposits generally range from $1,000 for standard accounts to $100,000+ for premium services. We communicate specific deposit requirements when presenting your banking options.
Yes, banks expect a clear picture of your company's commercial activities. You'll be asked for business plans, examples of contracts, invoices, or other materials that evidence your operations.
Yes, banks generally require apostilled corporate documents and certified identification. We coordinate all authentication requirements as a standard part of the application process.
Corporate documents should be dated within the last 6 months. The Certificate of Good Standing is usually expected within 30 to 90 days of application. We confirm exact requirements with each bank.
Many banks accept scanned copies for initial review, but certified originals or hard copies are typically required to complete the account opening. We outline the process at the start.
Since SVG uses English as its official language, corporate documents are in English. Any supporting documents in other languages will require certified translation.
Banks require identification of all individuals with 25% or more ownership. Certified identification, address proof, and a clear outline of the ownership chain are standard. Complex structures may require additional explanation.
While SVG's economic substance requirements are less formal than some jurisdictions, banks may still inquire about where your business operations are conducted and whether your company maintains genuine commercial activity.
Some banks impose restrictions on sectors perceived as higher risk, such as cryptocurrency, gambling, or unregulated financial services. We identify banks whose acceptance criteria match your company's activities.
Maintain current corporate records, respond to bank reviews and document requests in a timely manner, inform the bank of any changes to ownership or directors, and comply with all applicable regulatory obligations.
Standard charges include monthly maintenance fees ($50–$500+), wire transfer costs ($15–$50+), minimum balance penalties, and FX conversion fees. We supply fee details for every banking option you're considering.
Most banks enforce minimum balance requirements, typically from $5,000 to $500,000+ depending on the institution. Falling below the required threshold may trigger additional charges.
Yes, most banks issue business debit cards, and some offer credit cards subject to the company's financials. Card features, spending limits, and terms vary between institutions.
Banks provide secure online platforms for balance viewing, international transfers, payment scheduling, and statement management. Mobile apps are increasingly available for account access on the go.
Closures can happen due to compliance reviews, policy changes, or shifts in your business profile. We advise keeping banking relationships at more than one institution and can help secure alternatives if a closure occurs.
Speak to Our SVG Banking Advisors
Have questions about opening a bank account in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, preparation requirements, or available institutions? Our advisors can help.