How I Opening a Bank Account in Slovenia After 5 Rejection as a Nigerian

Introduction

In January 2024, I experienced something I wasn’t prepared for at all.

Over five banks rejected my attempt to open a bank account in Slovenia—simply because I am Nigerian.

What You Need to Open a Bank Account in Slovenia

To open a bank account in Slovenia, you typically need:

• A valid residence permit

• A Slovenian tax number

• A registered address

• Either a job contract or a registered business

On paper, it sounds simple.

In reality, it wasn’t.

Revolut Was Not Enough

I already had an account with Revolut, but I quickly realized it was not always accepted for salary payments by most employers in Slovenia.

Many companies still require a traditional bank account with a physical presence.

So I needed a local bank account.

The First Rejection

After getting a job, I went to my first bank to open an account.

Everything was fine—until they saw my passport.

Then I was told I could not open an account because Nigeria is on a flagged list.

I was shocked.

Five Banks, Same Outcome

I tried again.

And again.

And again.

Five banks in total.

Same answer every time.

Rejected.

At that point, I felt frustrated and confused.

The Bank That Finally Said Yes

The next day, I tried a bank near my home.

This time, something changed.

The staff noticed I was a family member of an EU citizen, and instead of rejecting me immediately, they escalated the case by emailing headquarters for verification.

Two days later, I received a call.

Approved.

I finally opened a bank account in Slovenia.

Final Thoughts

That experience taught me something important:

Sometimes, it’s not just about having the right documents—it’s about persistence and finding the right person willing to take a second look.

For foreigners in new systems, rejection is not always the end.

Sometimes, it’s just the beginning of finding the right door.

Picture of me in a club in Izola Slovenia