Did you just move to Iceland and need a bank account?

Creating a bank account at Arion bank is very simple. The only requirement is that you have an Icelandic registry number – kennitala. If you do not have one already, you can apply for one at the Registries Iceland; see skra.is.

Once you have your registry number you can choose between two ways to open an account:

1. You can apply for a bank account by using your electronic ID (rafræn skilríki)

Start by downloading the Arion app. You can then start your application process by using your electronic ID. (In order to obtain your electronic ID, you need an Icelandic registry number and the SIM card in your phone must support electronic IDs.)

Once you have obtained the electronic ID it is easy to create a bank account, apply for a debit card, and use the many other services we offer.

If you have any troubles using the electronic ID, do not hesitate to contact us, either by email, arionbanki@arionbanki.is, or by phone, +354 444 7000.

2. You can book a meeting and come to one of our branches

If you do not have an electronic ID, or if you choose not to use one, you can always come and see us at one of our branches. We are always happy to see you. Bear in mind that it is necessary to bring a valid ID to the branch in order to create an account this way.

We highly recommend, however, that you our customers use electronic IDs, as they facilitate access to various services across Icelandic society.

Grow your earnings by supplementary pension savings

We encourage everyone working in Iceland to benefit from the option of supplementary pension savings.

Supplementary pension savings are one of the most convenient forms of savings offered in Iceland. If you choose to save 2-4% of your salary and pay it into a supplementary pension fund you will receive a 2% additional contribution from your employer according to most union wage agreements. Your employer is responsible for paying into the fund.

At the age of 60 you can withdraw your savings as you see fit. If you are buying your first property in Iceland you can also choose to use your supplementary pension savings to do so with certain conditions.

Use the best banking app*

In the Arion app, which is available both in Icelandic and English, you can tend to all your banking needs – apply for a credit card, track your account balance, freeze your cards, find your PIN numbers, open a savings account, etc.

*Surveys by Maskína found that the Arion app is the best banking app in Iceland in 2024, the eighth year in a row.

We make your life easier

Our call center and our online chat are open all workdays between 9-16. You can also always email us at arionbanki@arionbanki.is. We are there to make your life easier.

The article is also available in Icelandic.