What follows is information regarding VISA cards, transaction fees, on line banking advice, debit cards and other financial information concerning expatriates in Spain. Upon going to open a bank account account in Spain one of the first hurdles you must overcome is that of the language barrier. It may well be that the cashier is a non English speaker and has not experienced opening an account for a foreigner previously. Certain information regarding set-up fees is not always provided accurately or followed through upon either. Having an interpreter with you can significantly reduce the frustration and hassle. For foreigners, two types of bank accounts are usually available: Firstly is that of a resident bank account. This allows you to set-up an account in either euros or any other current that your bank offers. Secondly is that of a No ppi judicial review nresident bank account. This account is normally for those people who do not posses an NIE card and are originally not from Spain. The regulations governing Spanish banks nonresidents are allowed to own bank accounts in foreign currencies or euros. To open the account you must provide valid identification such as your passport or ID number from your country of origin. The main reason for doing this is because you have to hand over a percentage of the interest you earn on your account which is different depending upon your residential status. Usually about once every six months the bank confirms your residency status. Residents of course get the better deal. Most utilities will be paid as a direct debit from your account although some landlords may request ‘dinero negro’ or more commonly known as cash in hand to avoid declaring their tax accurately.