Standard Chartered
traditional bank
Standard Chartered operates across 59 markets primarily in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, making it a strong choice for expats in those regions. Priority and Private Banking clients benefit from multi-currency accounts, preferential FX rates, and global account opening at select branches. The SC Mobile app enables cross-border transfers within the SC network at reduced cost. Does not accept US persons. Minimum deposits and fees vary significantly by country and account tier. Particularly well-regarded for accounts in Singapore, Hong Kong, UAE, and across Southeast Asia. Business accounts available in most markets with trade finance capabilities.
Details
- Headquarters
- United Kingdom
- Currencies
- 12
- Monthly Fee
- $10
- Non-Residents
- Accepted
- US Persons
- Not accepted
- Debit Card
- Available
- Business Account
- Available
Opening Requirements
- •Government-issued photo ID
- •Proof of address
- •Minimum deposit (varies by country: typically USD 1,000–25,000)
- •Employment or income documentation
- •Source of funds declaration for higher tiers
Restricted Nationalities
Not available to nationals of: united-states, north-korea, iran, cuba, syria
Nationality Acceptance Matrix
Who this provider will and will not onboard. Refusals are listed first. Sourced from the provider's own published terms and recent public onboarding reports — confirm with the provider before applying.
| Nationality | Accepted | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| us | NO | US persons declined — Standard Chartered does not accept US persons as account holders due to FATCA compliance burden. |
| russia | NO | Russian nationals restricted post-2022 SWIFT/UK/EU sanctions; SC has wound down Russia exposure. |
| iran | NO | Blocked — UN/UK/EU/OFAC sanctions. |
| cuba | NO | Blocked — OFAC Cuba sanctions. |
| north korea | NO | Blocked — UN/OFAC DPRK sanctions. |
| syria | NO | Blocked — UN/EU/OFAC Syria sanctions. |
| uk | YES | UK nationals accepted across SC markets; strong presence in Asia, Africa, Middle East. |
| eu | YES | EU nationals accepted; varies by operating country. |
| china | YES | Chinese nationals accepted; SC has strong Greater China presence (HK, Shanghai, Beijing). |
| myanmar | YES | SC historically operated in Myanmar; accepted with enhanced due diligence and individual sanctions screening. |
Similar Banking Options
Options matched on type and jurisdiction — not a recommendation.
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