Agricultural Bank of China is one of the big four state banks, with the deepest county and township network in the country, steady deposit and settlement services and full FX settlement capability. Account opening is in person; foreign passports are accepted.
Apply in person at a branch; the widest county-township network. Foreign applicants: see the notes below.
ABC branches accept foreign passports with a valid Chinese visa or residence permit (most branches want 3+ months remaining; tourist visas may be declined) plus a mainland real-name mobile number. County and township branches rarely handle foreign applicants — go to an urban sub-branch.
These are stable, standing account benefits (not time-limited) — available as long as you qualify:
Conditionally. Foreigners holding a valid Chinese visa or residence permit can open an account at urban branches; tourist visas are usually declined, and fully remote opening from abroad is not possible.
No minimum deposit; account opening is free, and some branches ask for a small activation deposit.
Residents: mainland ID card + real-name mobile number. Foreigners: passport + valid visa or residence permit + mainland real-name mobile number.
In person at a branch, about 30 minutes with the card issued on the spot.
Incomplete or non-compliant documents; inability to explain the account purpose or source of funds; identity or address requirements unmet; too little remaining visa validity.
Standing benefits: No Monthly Fee, No Min Deposit. Promotions change by region and quarter — always check the bank's official promo page (verified 2026-10).
Having documents ready lowers the chance of rejection; policies change, so confirm with the bank before applying.