For expatriates living in Costa Rica, having a reliable and user-friendly banking institution is important. The ease of managing finances, paying bills, and handling taxes becomes crucial for a seamless expat experience. Banco BCT, located conveniently near the Do It Center in Comunidad caters to both the financial needs of individuals and businesses alike. As a satisfied user of BCT's services, I can attest to the convenience and reliability the bank offers, making it an excellent choice for locals and expatriates alike. An additional advantage is that the staff at the BCT in Comunidad is proficient in English, ensuring clear communication throughout the account opening process.
Requirements for Personal Account:
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Identification Documents:
- Submit a copy of all pages of your passport, residency card, or identification document for each authorized signer.
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Source of Income:
- For a holding account in the US: Provide the current W-2 Form or a Social Security income verification letter.
- For a holding account in Canada: Submit the current T4 form or a CPA-certified income verification, duly signed by the accountant.
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Know Your Customer (KYC) Compliance:
- Complete the form for account holders and authorized signers, adhering to the "Know Your Customer" policy. Include details such as the source of funds, purpose of the account, address, phone number, marital status, emails, profession, or occupation.
Requirements for Business Account:
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Incorporation Documents:
- Provide a copy of articles of incorporation or certificate of incorporation, including all reforms and the latest modifications of the legal entity.
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Notarized Legal Representation:
- Obtain certified notarization of the legal representative, listing shareholders up to the ultimate beneficial owners. Include any powers of substitution. A shareholder certificate issued by a notary public, not older than one month, detailing names and share percentages is required. If a shareholder is a U.S. company, specify the registration form of shares.
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Identification Documents for Signing Officers:
- Submit a copy of all pages of the passport, residency card, or identification document for each authorized signing officer.
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Source of Income:
- For a holding account in the US: Provide the current W-2 Form for the year or a Social Security Verification Letter.
- For a holding account in Canada: Provide the current T4 form for the year or an income certification prepared by a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
- For a company in operation: Submit original financial statements, signed by both the accountant and the legal representative. If the company has not generated income, include a cash flow projection signed by the accountant.
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KYC Compliance:
- Complete the form for all legal representatives, shareholders, and authorized signers, adhering to the "Know Your Customer" policy. Include details such as the source of funds, purpose of the account, address, phone number, marital status, emails, profession, or occupation.
BCT Locations throughout Costa Rica:
Liberia
Dirección: En el Do It Center, cruce entrada a Papagayo
Tel: 2667-1012 Fax: 2667-1011
Horario: Lunes a Viernes 9:00am a 4:30pm
Rohrmoser
Dirección: 1km oeste del Estadio Nacional, frente a Plaza Mayor, Edificio Corporativo BCT
Tel: 2212-8000
Horario: Lunes a Viernes 9:00am a 4:30pm
Escazú
Dirección: Centro Comercial Grupo Condal de Perimercados de los Anonos 200 metros sur, frente al Vivero Exótica
Tel: 2289-0093 Fax: 2289-8827
Horario: Lunes a Viernes 9:00am a 4:30pm
Santa Ana
Dirección: City Place, de la Cruz Roja de Santa Ana 200 metros norte, frente al supermercado Más x Menos
Tel: 2282-0598 Fax: 2282-5606
Horario: Lunes a Viernes 9:00am a 4:30pm Sábados: 9:00am a 2:00pm
Curridabat
Dirección: Frente al parqueo del Indoor Club
Tel: 2224-0544 Fax: 2224-1605
Horario: Lunes a Viernes 9:00am a 4:30pm
Pérez Zeledón
Dirección: Centro Comercial Villa Plaza Herrera, Local No. 6
Tel: 2770-9224 Fax: 2770-6711
Horario: Lunes a Viernes 9:00am a 4:30pm
Cartago
Dirección: De la entrada principal del Colegio San Luis Gonzaga, 50 metros norte y 75 metros este
Tel: 2552-9797 Fax: 2552-0667
Horario: Lunes a Viernes 9:00am a 4:30pm
Alajuela
Dirección: Centro Comercial Plaza Real
Tel: 2443-6060 Fax: 2443-7555
Horario: Lunes a Viernes 9:00am a 4:30pm
San Carlos – Ciudad Quesada
Dirección: 600 metros norte y 100 metros oeste de la Catedral de Ciudad Quesada
Tel: 2461-9496 Fax: 2461-7711
Horario: Lunes a Viernes 9:00am a 4:30pm
Heredia
Dirección: Plaza San Francisco Heredia, 400 metros oeste de Walmart
Tel: 2263-9852 Fax: 2560-3289
Horario: Lunes a Viernes 9:00am a 4:30pm
Marina Flamingo
Dirección: Santa Cruz, Cabo Velas, en la Marina de Flamingo
Tel: 2212-8495
Horario: Lunes a Viernes 9:00am a 4:30pm
Guápiles
Dirección: Costado oeste del Banco Popular, Centro Comercial El Carao, local 1
Tel: 2710-9161 Fax: 2710-9156
Horario: Lunes a Viernes 9:00am a 4:30pm
As a client of BCT, I can confidently recommend this bank for its user-friendly services and English-speaking staff. By understanding and preparing the necessary documents, you pave the way for a positive banking experience, allowing you to access the comprehensive financial services offered by Banco BCT. Whether you are a local resident or an expatriate, BCT ensures a reliable and efficient banking experience, making it the preferred choice. If you have any questions, please feel free to email me and I can put you in touch with one of the BCT’s representatives.
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