Whether you are a seasoned saver or looking to start your journey towards financial stability, deposit accounts are a secure and reliable way for you to store your funds while earning interest. In this article, we will introduce some basic information on deposit accounts in Sweden – from who can open one to the types of accounts you can choose. We will also provide some tips on factors you should consider before deciding on an account. If you are looking for more information about deposit account terminology, you can learn more about deposit rates here.

Who can open a deposit account in Sweden?

In Sweden, there are specific requirements and parameters that determine a person’s eligibility for a deposit account.

Most deposit accounts in Sweden can be opened by individuals who are above the legal age of 18. There are also banks or account providers that offer options for minors, and this is done with the consent or involvement of a legal guardian.

There may also be restrictions depending on your residency status in the country. Swedish residents can easily open deposit accounts, but non-residents may also be allowed to open one provided they meet certain criteria.

Finally, there are no specific financial requirements to open a basic deposit account, but there may be specific types of accounts that have a certain monetary threshold. For example, high-yield savings accounts or premium accounts may have minimum deposit requirements that account holders are obligated to fulfil.

Opening a deposit account requires proof of identity

Specific banks and financial institutions have their own policies and requirements. However, it can be said with certainty that proof of identification is always required, and it is often one of the first steps in any account application.

To prove your identity, you are typically required to provide valid, official identification documents, such as a valid passport or national identification card. Banks and financial institutions verify your identity to comply with anti-money laundering regulations and to ensure that only you can access your funds in the future.

Deposit accounts in Sweden

So, you may be wondering – what are your options if you want to open a deposit account and start earning interest on your funds? The good news is that you have plenty, a    nd you can choose your preferred one depending on your financial needs and objectives.

First, you have savings accounts. Savings accounts are by far the most common type of deposit account in Sweden, and they offer a safe place to store your funds while earning interest. Savings accounts also provide easy access to your funds for daily expenses or emergencies. Depending on the bank you choose, you may find tiered savings accounts with different benefits you can choose from, depending on the minimum deposit you put in.

There are also transaction accounts, which are also known as current or checking accounts. They are designed for everyday needs, and you can deposit your funds and access them easily. They typically do not have high interest rates, as they focus more on providing you with convenient transactional services, so that you can pay your rent, bills, and other financial obligations.

Term deposit or time deposit accounts can also be an option, and they take deposits for a fixed term in exchange for earning interest at a predetermined rate. If you choose to open a term deposit account, you must deposit a specific amount of money as required for a specified period, which can range from a few months to a few years. Usually, your deposit rates will be higher, but the trade-off includes withdrawal restrictions.

Finally, there are deposit accounts for specific groups of individuals, such as pensioners, students, and youths. Several banks in Sweden provide these specialised deposit accounts and they may come with features such as lower fees, higher interest rates, and customised services to cater to the demographic’s unique needs.

Things to consider before choosing a deposit account

When you are choosing a deposit account, you should consider the interest rates and charges that come with the account’s terms. Look for competitive deposit rates that can maximise the growth of your savings, but also keep in mind the features and extra fees and charges that you may be subjected to. Common fees include withdrawal charges, monthly maintenance fees, transaction fees, or fees for additional services. These little expenses can eat into your funds over time. If you would be making regular withdrawals and transactions, you might choose a transaction account instead of a term deposit or savings account.

You should also consider the level of accessibility and convenience offered by the account. Evaluate factors such as the availability of online banking services, mobile banking apps, ATM access, and customer support. You should be able to manage your funds easily, in a way that fits with your lifestyle.

Finally, if you are not opening an account from a major Swedish bank such as Swedbank, Nordea, Handelsbanken, or SEB (Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken), review the reputation and security of your account provider. Check if the bank is a member of the Swedish Deposit Guarantee Scheme, which provides protection for depositors like you in case of bank insolvency. This can ensure your funds are safe to a certain limit.