Know Your Customer (KYC)
Why do we ask for your proof of identification before opening an account?
It does not mean in any way that suspicion is falling on you. Information is needed that clearly identifies or reconfirms who you are. This makes it harder for criminals to use false or stolen identities to access the financial system and turn their 'dirty' criminal money into 'clean' funds.
It also help us to process your remittance requests, when we know who you are.
If you want to know more go to www.identitytheft.org.uk
What kind of proof of identity do I need?
The best documents are those that are issued by an official authority, cannot be easily forged, and include a photograph. Separate documents are needed to prove your identity and your home address. Some examples are shown below:
Proof of Identity:
- Valid passport
- Valid UK driving licence or a blue disabled driver's pass
- EU member state ID card
Proof of Address
- Bills - recent utility bills (electricity, water, gas, landline phone bill or council tax bills)
- Statements - bank, building society, credit union, mortgage
- Official letters - UK solicitor confirming home purchase, benefits agency
- Others - council rent card, tenancy agreement, pension book
What if I don't have any of the documents above that I can use?
There are additional procedures in place to help customers who cannot provide the preferred documents. You can talk to a member of PNBE staff about the sorts of documents you can produce.
Can I send photocopies instead of the original?
Yes, we encourage you to do so, provided that they are certified as true copies (CTC) of the originals. The person who certifies the documents must provide contact details, telephone number and address.
For UK passports holders - acceptable people to certify are the following:
- UK banker
- Lawyer or solicitor
- Doctor
- Accountant
- Teacher
- Minister of religion
- Postmaster or sub-postmaster
For Non-UK passport holders - acceptable people to certify are the following:
Note: Non-Filipino passport holders are not allowed to open a Peso (savings and/or checking) account in the Philippines, in accordance with the Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) regulations.
- Solicitor
- UK banker (where your account is being maintained)
- GP or doctor
- Consulate of the Philippine Embassy
- Senior official of PNBE
Please remember though, the law requires your financial services provider to verify your identity.