A Foreigner’s Guide to Opening a Bank Account at BNI

If you're a foreigner looking to open a bank account at BNI (Bank Negara Indonesia), here’s what you need:
  1. Passport: A valid passport with your visa.
  2. KITAS/KITAP: Your temporary or permanent residency permit (if applicable).
  3. Proof of Employment or Study: A document confirming your work or study in Indonesia.
  4. Minimum Deposit: The deposit amount depends on the type of account you choose.
To make the process smoother and avoid potential complications, it’s recommended to use an agency like Legal Indonesia, which can assist with the entire process of opening a bank account at BNI.

BNI Card Options

BNI Bank in Bali offers a variety of cards for foreigners, including debit and credit cards linked to savings accounts. Popular debit card options include the BNI Taplus and BNI Emerald. Specific card offerings may vary based on your residency status and account type, so it's best to confirm details at a local BNI branch.

BNI Taplus Card

To open a BNI Taplus account in Bali as a foreigner, you’ll need your passport, KITAS/KITAP, and a minimum deposit of 500,000 IDR (approximately $35). This account is intended for personal use and includes a debit card that grants access to ATMs and online banking services.
  • Monthly Service Fee: 11,000 IDR
Transaction Limits
BNI Taplus Silver Card:
  • Cash Withdrawals: Up to 5,000,000 IDR per day at ATMs.
  • ATM Transfers: Up to 50,000,000 IDR per day.
  • Debit Payments: Up to 10,000,000 IDR per day.
BNI Taplus Gold Card:
  • Cash Withdrawals: Up to 10,000,000 IDR per day.
  • ATM Transfers: Up to 50,000,000 IDR per day.
  • Debit Payments: Up to 50,000,000 IDR per day.
BNI Taplus Platinum Card:
  • Cash Withdrawals: Up to 15,000,000 IDR per day.
  • ATM Transfers: Up to 100,000,000 IDR per day.
  • Debit Payments: Up to 100,000,000 IDR per day.
Each card level offers increasing limits, allowing you to choose the card that best suits your financial needs.
Benefits of BNI Taplus Cards:
  • Earn cashback or bonus points on select purchases.
  • Enjoy special offers and discounts from BNI’s partner merchants.
  • Benefit from higher credit limits compared to standard cards.
For detailed information, it’s best to visit a BNI branch or check the bank’s official website.

BNI Emerald Card

The BNI Emerald card is designed for premium customers, offering enhanced benefits such as higher transaction limits and access to exclusive banking services.
Account Opening Requirements:
A high minimum balance is required, typically over 500 million IDR. For more details, visit a BNI branch.
Transaction Limits:
  • Cash Withdrawals: Up to 15,000,000 IDR per day.
  • ATM Transfers: Up to 100,000,000 IDR per day.
  • Debit Payments: Up to 100,000,000 IDR per day.
Benefits:
  • Personal account manager.
  • Premium interest rates.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Access to VIP airport lounges.
  • Partner discounts.

SWIFT Transfers at BNI

To make a SWIFT transfer at BNI, you’ll need the following information:
1.     Recipient Information:
  • Full name of the recipient or company.
  • Bank account number.
  • Bank name and address.
  • SWIFT/BIC code (a unique bank identification code).
2.     Your Information:
  • Your full name.
  • Current address.
  • Your bank account number.
3.     Transfer Details:
  • Amount to transfer.
  • Currency for the transfer.
  • Purpose of the payment.
How to Initiate the Transfer:
  • Visit your bank in person, call, or use online banking (if available) to start the transfer.
  • Provide all the required details.
Fees and Processing Time:
SWIFT transfer fees vary and may depend on:
  • Transfer amount (percentage or fixed fee).
  • Urgency (urgent transfers may cost more).
  • Currency (fees may differ for certain currencies).
  • Receiving bank (some banks charge a fee for receiving international transfers). 
Processing Time:
SWIFT transfers usually take 1 to 5 business days. Domestic transfers or transfers to countries with special agreements may be faster, often 1–2 business days. International transfers typically take 2–5 business days.
Keep in mind that processing times can be affected by the sender and receiver banks, holidays, and time zone differences.

How to Request a BNI Bank Statement for Address Verification

A bank statement from BNI may be required for various purposes, such as opening an account at another bank, renting a property, or applying for a visa. Here are the steps to request a bank statement that includes your address:
1. Visit a BNI Branch in Person
  • Go to the nearest BNI branch.
  • Bring your identification (passport or KTP).
  • Request a statement that includes your current address.
  • Clearly inform the bank staff that you need the statement specifically for address verification.
2. Request via BNI Internet Banking
  • Log in to your account on BNI Internet Banking (https://ibank.bni.co.id).
  • Navigate to the Statements section.
  • Request a statement and check if your address is listed.
  • If the address is not included, the statement may not suffice for verification, and you might need to visit a branch to request a document confirming your address.
3. Use the BNI Mobile App
  • Open the BNI Mobile Banking app.
  • Go to the Statements section.
  • Request a statement and verify if your address appears.
  • If the address is not shown, you will likely need to visit a branch to obtain the appropriate document.
4. Contact BNI Customer Service
  • Call BNI’s customer service centre at 1500046.
  • Explain that you need a statement for address verification purposes.
  • Follow the operator’s instructions to request the necessary document.
Note: Standard statements may not include your address. It’s recommended to confirm with BNI on how to specifically request a document that contains this information.

How to Withdraw Money from a BNI ATM Without a Card (MOBILE CASH)

You can easily withdraw money from a BNI ATM in Bali without using a card, thanks to the MOBILE CASH feature available in the BNI Mobile Banking app. Follow these simple steps:
1. Install and Log in to the BNI Mobile App
  • Download the BNI Mobile Banking app from Google Play or the App Store if you haven’t already.
  • Log in using your credentials.
2. Start the MOBILE CASH Transaction
  • From the app’s main menu, select the MOBILE CASH option.
  • Choose Withdrawal.
3. Enter the Withdrawal Amount
  • Input the amount you want to withdraw (ensure it’s within the withdrawal limits for this feature).
4. Confirm the Transaction
  • After entering the amount, confirm the transaction by entering your PIN or using another authentication method, like fingerprint or Face ID.
  • You’ll receive a unique transaction code (PIN) and possibly a QR code. These are valid for a limited time (usually 2-3 hours).
5. Withdraw cash at a BNI ATM
  • Visit the nearest BNI ATM.
  • On the ATM screen, select the MOBILE CASH or Withdraw without Card option.
  • Enter the transaction code (PIN) you received.
  • Confirm the transaction and collect your cash.
  • Don’t forget to collect your receipt if needed.
This feature is handy, especially when you don’t have your card on hand, offering a quick and secure way to access your funds.

How to Find Your BNI Bank Account Number

Here are several ways to locate your BNI bank account number:
1. BNI Mobile Banking App
  • Log in to the BNI Mobile Banking app.
  • On the main page or in the Accounts section, your account number will be displayed next to your balance.
2. BNI Internet Banking
  • Log in to BNI Internet Banking via the website.
  • Go to the Accounts or Balance section to find your account number.
3. Account Statement
  • Check any bank statement sent to you via mail or email. Your account number is typically listed at the top of the document.
4. BNI Debit Card
  • In some cases, your BNI debit card may have your account number printed on it. Keep in mind that the card number is different from the account number.
5. BNI ATM
You can retrieve your account number at a BNI ATM:
  • Insert your card.
  • Choose the option to view your balance.
  • Your account number may be shown along with the balance.
6. Visit a BNI Branch
  • If you're still unable to find your account number, visit the nearest BNI branch. The staff will assist you. Be sure to bring your ID for verification.
These methods should help you easily find your BNI account number whenever you need it.

How to View Transactions on Your BNI Card or Account

Here are several ways to check transactions on your BNI account or card:
You can retrieve your account number at a BNI ATM:
  • Open the BNI Mobile Banking app on your smartphone.
  • Log in with your credentials.
  • Go to the Accounts or Transaction History section.
  • Select the account or card to view recent transactions.
2. BNI Internet Banking
  • Log in to the BNI Internet Banking website.
  • Navigate to the Accounts or Transaction History section.
  • Choose the account or card to see your transaction details.
3. BNI ATM
  • Insert your BNI card into the ATM and enter your PIN.
  • Select Transaction History or Mini Statement from the menu.
  • Recent transactions will be displayed or printed on a receipt.
4. Account Statement
  • Check your most recent account statement, either received by email or by visiting a BNI branch to request one.
  • You can also download statements through Internet Banking.
5. BNI Contact Centre
  • Call BNI's customer service at 1500046.
  • After verifying your identity, request information about your recent transactions.
6. Visit a BNI Branch
  • For in-person assistance, visit any BNI branch. The staff can print a statement and provide details on your latest transactions.
These methods offer convenient ways to keep track of your BNI account activity.

How to Pay Your Phone Bill Through BNI

You can easily pay your phone bill through BNI using different methods, such as the BNI Mobile Banking app, Internet Banking, ATMs, or by visiting a BNI branch. Here’s how:
1. BNI Mobile Banking App
  • Open the BNI Mobile Banking app on your smartphone.
  • Log in with your credentials.
  • Select Payments from the main menu.
  • Choose Mobile Recharge for prepaid or Bill Payment for post-paid bills.
  • Enter your phone number and select your mobile operator.
  • Enter the payment amount or select the appropriate service package.
  • Confirm the transaction by entering your PIN or using biometric authentication.
  • You'll receive a confirmation of the successful payment.
2. BNI Internet Banking
  • Log in to the BNI Internet Banking website.
  • Go to the Payments section.
  • Choose Mobile Recharge or Bill Payment.
  • Enter your phone number, select your mobile operator, and input the payment amount.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm the payment.
  • Save the payment confirmation for your records if needed.
3. BNI ATM
  • Insert your card into the ATM and enter your PIN.
  • From the main menu, select Payments/Purchases.
  • Choose Mobile Recharge or Bill Payment.
  • Enter your phone number and select your mobile operator.
  • Enter the amount or select the service package.
  • Confirm the transaction and collect the receipt from the ATM.
4. Visit a BNI Branch
  • Visit any BNI branch and inform the staff that you would like to pay your phone bill.
  • Provide your phone number and the payment amount.
  • The staff will process the payment and give you a receipt.
These options allow you to conveniently pay your phone bill through BNI, whether from home or by using the nearest ATM or branch.

How to Transfer Currency Between Your Own BNI Accounts

You can easily transfer currency between your accounts at BNI using the BNI Mobile Banking app, Internet Banking, or other convenient methods. Here's how:
1. Using the BNI Mobile Banking App
  • Open the BNI Mobile Banking app on your smartphone.
  • Log in with your credentials.
  • From the main menu, select Transfers.
  • Choose Transfer Between My Accounts.
  • Select the account to transfer from and the account to receive the funds.
  • Enter the transfer amount and choose the currency.
  • Confirm the transaction by entering your PIN or using biometric authentication.
  • You’ll receive a confirmation of the successful transfer.
2. Using BNI Internet Banking
  • Go to the BNI Internet Banking website and log in.
  • Select Transfers from the menu.
  • Click Transfer Between My Accounts.
  • Specify the sender and recipient accounts.
  • Enter the transfer amount and select the currency.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm the transaction.
  • You can save or print the confirmation for your records.
3. Using a BNI ATM
  • Insert your card into a BNI ATM and enter your PIN.
  • From the main menu, choose Transfers.
  • Select Transfer Between My Accounts.
  • Specify the sender and recipient accounts.
  • Enter the amount and confirm the transaction.
  • The ATM will provide a receipt for confirmation.
4. At a BNI Branch
  • Visit the nearest BNI branch.
  • Fill out the transfer form and give it to a bank staff member.
  • Provide details of the accounts and the transfer amount.
  • The bank will process the request, and you’ll receive confirmation of the successful transfer.
Additional Information
For details on limits and fees for currency transfers, you can:
  • Call BNI’s customer service for assistance.
  • Use the online chat feature on their website.
  • Visit a branch for a consultation on transfer limits and fees.
Make sure to confirm any fees or additional costs that might apply to your currency transfer between accounts.

How to Contact BNI Customer Support

If you need assistance from BNI’s customer support, here are several ways to get in touch:

BNI Contact Centre

The contact centre operates 24/7 and can assist with account, card, mobile, and internet banking issues.
  • Phone: Call 1500046 (within Indonesia, including Bali).
  • From Abroad: +62 21 30500046 (for international inquiries).

Social Media and Messaging Apps

  • Twitter: @BNI – Send a direct message for support.
  • Instagram: @bni46 – Ask questions via Direct Message.
  • Facebook: BNI46 – Reach out through Facebook Messenger.

Email

For more complex issues or complaints, email bnicall@bni.co.id.

Visit a BNI Branch

You can visit any BNI branch in Bali. The bank staff will assist you in resolving your issues in person. Locate the nearest branch using BNI’s official website or Google Maps.

Chatbot and Online Support

BNI’s official website features a chatbot that provides help with frequently asked questions and can guide you to the appropriate resources.
These options ensure that you can easily reach BNI customer support, whether you prefer phone, online, or in-person assistance.

BNI Mobile Banking Overview

The BNI Mobile Banking app offers a convenient way to manage your bank accounts and perform transactions directly from your smartphone. Here’s a breakdown of its key features and how to get started:

Key Features of BNI Mobile Banking

1. Account Management:
  • Instantly check your account, credit card, and deposit balances.
  • View transaction history for quick reference.
2. Transfers:
  • Transfer money between your own accounts.
  • Send funds to other banks in Indonesia.
  • Make international transfers (Remittance).
  • Use mobile number-based transfers (BNI Mobile Remittance).
3. Bill Payments and Purchases:
  • Pay utility bills, internet, phone services, and more.
  • Top up mobile credit and purchase tickets for various services.
4. Card Management:
  • Lock or unlock your card.
  • Set or change your card PIN.
  • Activate new cards directly from the app.
5. Mobile Cash (Cardless Withdrawal):
  • Withdraw cash from ATMs without using your card, using the app instead.
6. Investments and Savings:
  • Manage your deposits and investment products easily.
7. Information and Support:
  • Access real-time currency exchange rates and customer support contacts.

How to Download and Install BNI Mobile Banking

  • Android: Available on the Google Play Store.
  • iOS: Available on the App Store.

Registration and Activation

  • Download and install the app.
  • Register by entering your account or card number and confirming via an OTP (one-time password) sent by SMS.
  • Set a PIN for logging in and performing transactions to activate the app.

Security

BNI Mobile Banking ensures your financial safety with multi-layered security, including PIN codes, biometric authentication, and one-time passwords.

Support

For assistance, you can contact BNI customer support at 1500046 or reach out via social media or email.
This app offers a secure and efficient way to manage your finances on the go, providing a wide range of services at your fingertips.

BNI Internet Banking Overview

BNI Internet Banking, accessible through your web browser, offers a range of online banking services to help you manage your accounts and perform transactions with ease. Here's an overview of what you can do:

Key Features

1. Account Balance and Transaction History:
  • View the balance of your accounts, credit cards, and deposits.
  • Access detailed transaction history over a selected period.
2. Fund Transfers:
  • Transfer money between your own BNI accounts.
  • Send funds to other banks in Indonesia.
  • Make international transfers (Remittance).
3. Bill Payments:
  • Pay for utilities, internet, phone services, and more.
  • Purchase mobile top-ups and other services.
4. Card Management:
  • Check your card status.
  • Lock or unlock your card when needed.
5. Deposit and Investment Management:
  • Open and manage deposit accounts.
  • Buy and sell investment products online.
6. Requests and Applications:
  • Request account statements.
  • Apply to change your transaction limits.
BNI Internet Banking provides a secure and convenient way to manage your finances from any location, offering a comprehensive suite of services to meet your banking needs.

How to Access BNI Internet Banking

1. Registration:
Visit your nearest BNI branch to activate Internet Banking. After completing registration, you will receive a login ID and a temporary password.
2. Logging In:
  • Go to the official BNI Internet Banking website: https://ibank.bni.co.id.
  • Enter your login ID and password.
  • If this is your first login, you’ll be prompted to change your temporary password.
3. Authentication:
  • For secure transactions, you may need to enter a one-time password (OTP), which will be sent to your registered phone number.
Security Tips:
  • Avoid accessing Internet Banking on public or unfamiliar devices.
  • Always log out after completing your transactions.
  • Enable SMS or email alerts to receive notifications about your transactions and logins.
These steps help ensure a smooth and secure experience while using BNI Internet Banking.
Translated from the original article by BALICHATEXCHANGE.
LB
11/10/24
11/10/24
So far I know Maybank is very good and even has no transfer fees of 2 500 idr. But is it the best bank?
LB
11/10/24
11/10/24
Dear Ibu Tan. Thank you for your article. Please let me add this. BNI is the worst bank I ever had an account at! I'm a customer there for a few years now and am very unhappy with its service. It's very bureaucratic, the app is bahasa-only, for solving any problem you need to visit their office, take that archaic booklet with you, wait in line sometimes for hours. They even closed my usd account, as without informing me introduced a monthly fee that eaten off my parked money there. In Europe banks even in the 1990-ies were more modern. So I reccomend everyone to save yourself a lot of stress and open your account elsewhere.
And here comes my question - where? In one of your articles could you please compare the banks of Indonesia, in order to help your readers find a bank that you need to visit just once - to open an account there, and do everything else online: unblock pin, get a new card per mail, change telephone number, no booklet, make international transfers online, english language app.
This would be grand!
Terima kasih banyak 🙏
Polina Editor avatar
14/10/24
14/10/24
Hello dear Lover boy,
I have just seen your request, at the moment, we have such articles with bank comparisons:
https://bali.live/p/indonesias-top-5-banks-pros-and-cons
https://bali.live/p/how-to-open-a-bank-account-in-bali
I hope this helps

We will also consider writing a full review on Banks in Bali
Thank you so much for your ideas!
LB
16/10/24
16/10/24
Thank you, Polina! But I mean a comparision of banks not economically, but from a clients viewpoint - there offers and comfort.
Otherwise please continue your great website; it helps us expats alot 🙏🙏🙏