As more Indians work remotely with international clients, especially in Europe, the need for seamless cross-border payments is more urgent than ever. Traditionally, opening a bank account in the EU required residency, local documentation, or even a physical visit to the country. For most Indians, that’s neither practical nor affordable. In this guide, you’ll learn how to open an EU account from India quickly, securely, and without needing European citizenship.

Also read: How freelancers in India can receive payments from the US, UK & EU clients

Why Indians working remotely need a European bank account

1. Seamless international payments: Receiving payments from European clients into a local Indian account often attracts high SWIFT charges, conversion fees, and delays. An EU bank account lets you receive EUR directly, saving money and time.
2. Better exchange rates. With an EU account, you can convert EUR to INR at more favourable rates than traditional banks or payment processors.
3. Professional image: Having a European IBAN gives clients a sense of confidence and trust. It shows that you're serious about international business and reduces billing friction.
4. Multi-currency banking: Many platforms offer accounts that support multiple currencies (EUR, GBP), helping you manage and track global earnings more efficiently.

Also read: The best payment platforms for remote workers in India and Africa.

Bank accounts that Indians can open remotely

1. Wise: Wise offers a multi-currency account that provides European IBANs and UK account numbers. You can hold and receive money in over 40 currencies, including EUR and GBP. Verification is quick and usually requires a passport and an address.
2. Payoneer: Popular among freelancers and small business owners, Payoneer gives you access to receiving EU, UK, and US bank accounts. The onboarding process is simple, and you can withdraw funds to your Indian account at competitive rates.
3. Revolut: Revolut has started expanding globally and offers accounts to residents in India through partnerships.
4. Grey: Grey is a fast-growing fintech solution built specifically for remote workers and freelancers in Africa and Asia, including India. It allows you to open EU, UK, and US accounts in minutes.

Also read: How to open US, UK, and Euro bank accounts in India.

Why Grey is the perfect account for Indians working remotely

• Instant account opening: You can create an EU account right from your phone using basic KYC documents (Aadhaar card, passport, etc.).
• Multiple currency support: Grey lets you receive payments in USD, GBP, and EUR, making it ideal for global freelancers.
• Low fees and transparent rates: Grey uses competitive exchange rates and displays all fees with no hidden charges.
• User-friendly app: Its intuitive interface simplifies money management, conversion, and withdrawals.

How to open a Grey account for your EU payments from India

1. Sign up for a free Grey account

Visit grey.co or download the Grey app from the App Store or Google Play Store. You’ll need your email address and Indian mobile number to register.

2. Complete your identity verification

• A government-issued ID (such as your passport or Aadhaar card)
• Proof of address (a recent utility bill, bank statement, or rental agreement)

3. Request your EU account

Once verified, navigate to the “Accounts” section in your Grey dashboard.

You can instantly request:

• A Euro (EU) account with a European IBAN for receiving EUR payments.

4. Get started with  your account

Your EU account is now active and ready to receive international payments.

• Share your account details with European clients or employers.
• Withdraw to your Indian bank account at competitive exchange rates with full transparency.

Opening a European bank account from India used to be a lengthy and restrictive process, but that’s changing. Grey is making international banking more accessible, allowing people in India to easily open and use EU accounts without stepping foot in Europe.

Sign up for Grey today or download the app to experience modern cross-border banking.

‍