How to create a bank account in Zimbabwe?

steps + requirements for opening a bank account in Zimbabwe. If you tell me which bank you’re considering (e.g. FBC, CBZ, Stanbic, etc.), I can give you specifically for that bank.
What you’ll need (documents & info)
For a personal (non‑business) bank account, typically:
Item | Details / Notes |
---|---|
Proof of Identity | A valid national ID (if citizen), or passport / driver’s licence. firstcapitalbank.co.zw+2Stanbic Bank+2 |
Proof of Residence | Utility bill (electricity, water, phone) not older than ~3 months; or letter from employer, affidavit or other accepted confirmation. preview.webworks.co.zw+3NMB Bank Limited Online Support Centre+3metbank.co.zw+3 |
Photographs | Passport‑sized photos, often 2 copies. metbank.co.zw+2firstcapitalbank.co.zw+2 |
Initial Deposit | Many banks require a minimum deposit to open the account. Amount depends on the bank and type of account. metbank.co.zw+2preview.webworks.co.zw+2 |
Proof of Income / Employment | If you’re opening a current account, or one that has overdraft or credit features, banks often want a payslip or employer’s confirmation. Stanbic Bank+1 |
For minors (under 18 or under certain ages) or youth accounts, there are special rules: parental/guardian consent, guardian ID, birth certificate, etc.
Steps to open the account
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Choose a bank & type of account
Decide which bank you want, and what kind of account (savings, current, foreign currency etc.). Compare fees, accessibility of branches / mobile banking, debit card etc. -
Gather documents
As per above: ID, proof of residence, photos, etc. -
Fill in application form
You do this either at a branch, or in some cases online or via mobile app. NMB Bank Limited Online Support Centre+2metbank.co.zw+2 -
Make initial deposit
Deposit whatever the minimum required is. metbank.co.zw+2preview.webworks.co.zw+2 -
Submit your application
Submit the documents + forms to the bank. The bank may run verification checks (credit, identity, proof of address, etc.). tax.co.zw+3metbank.co.zw+3cbz.co.zw+3 -
Get account details / card
Once approved, you get your account number, possibly a debit card, online banking access etc. fbc.co.zw+1 -
Maintain minimum balance / fees
Be aware of minimum balances, monthly service charges etc. If these aren’t maintained you might incur fees or the account might become dormant. metbank.co.zw+1
Some special cases
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Corporate / Business accounts require additional items: Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum & Articles of Association, CR14 & CR6 forms (documents about directors), tax clearance etc. tax.co.zw+2afcholdings.co.zw+2
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Youth / minor accounts have age limits, and need guardian involvement. posb.co.zw+1
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Digital / remote account opening is becoming more common with some banks (e.g. via apps or USSD). But often you’ll still need to present or submit physical documents