You can open a Metrobank savings account online through their website or mobile app, but you'll need to complete verification steps that may require a visit to a branch or video call.

Metrobank offers online account opening for most savings products, but the process is not fully remote. You start online by providing personal information, but the bank requires identity verification before the account becomes active. This verification happens either through a branch visit, a video call with a Metrobank representative, or by submitting documents through their app — the method depends on which account type you choose and what documents you have on hand.

The entire process typically takes one to three business days once verification is complete. If you choose the branch visit route, you can complete everything in one trip. If you go the video or document route, you're waiting for Metrobank staff to review what you've submitted.

Key Takeaways

  • Metrobank's online account opening requires you to start on their website or app, but you cannot finish entirely online — identity verification requires either a branch visit, video call, or document submission.
  • You need a valid government ID (passport, driver's license, or national ID), proof of address dated within the last three months, and your Social Security Number or Tax Identification Number.
  • The fastest route is usually a same-day branch visit, where you can complete the entire process in one appointment.
  • Once your account is verified and active, you can deposit money, set up transfers, and use online banking immediately.

What you need before you start

Gather these documents before opening your account online. You'll need a valid government-issued ID — a Philippine passport, driver's license, or national ID card. The ID must not be expired. You also need proof of address dated within the last three months, such as a utility bill, credit card statement, or lease agreement in your name. Have your Social Security Number or Tax Identification Number ready as well.

If you're opening the account on behalf of a minor or as a joint account, bring additional documents for the other account holder. Metrobank's website lists the specific requirements for each account type — savings accounts for individuals, joint accounts, and accounts for minors each have slightly different document needs.

Starting the application on Metrobank's website or app

Go to Metrobank's official website or download their mobile app and look for the "Open an Account" or "New Account" section. You'll enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, contact number, email address, and residential address. The form will ask whether you want to open a regular savings account, a high-yield savings account, or another product — choose based on the interest rate and minimum balance that fits your needs.

After you submit your information, Metrobank will send you a confirmation email or app notification with next steps. This is where the process branches: you'll be told whether to visit a branch, schedule a video verification call, or submit documents through the app. Read this message carefully because the method available to you depends on your location and the account type you chose.

Completing verification at a Metrobank branch

If you choose the branch route, find a Metrobank branch near you using their branch locator on the website. Bring your government ID, proof of address, and the confirmation email or reference number from your online application. A Metrobank representative will verify your identity, review your documents, and complete the account setup in person — this usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Once verification is done at the branch, your account is active immediately. You can deposit money that same day, set up online banking access, and start using the account. If you have questions about features or want to set up automatic transfers, the branch staff can walk you through those while you're there.

Completing verification by video call

If Metrobank offers video verification for your account type, you'll receive a link to schedule a call with a bank representative. During the call, you'll show your government ID and proof of address to the camera — the representative will verify the documents match your application. The call typically lasts 10 to 15 minutes.

After the call ends, Metrobank processes your verification, which takes one to two business days. You'll receive an email or app notification when your account is active. At that point, you can log into online banking and start using the account, though you may need to visit a branch later to deposit cash if the account doesn't have a linked debit card yet.

Submitting documents through the app

Some account types allow you to upload photos of your ID and proof of address directly through the Metrobank app. Take clear photos of both sides of your government ID and a photo of your proof of address document. Make sure the text is legible and the entire document is visible in the frame.

Upload the photos through the app and wait for Metrobank to review them. This review takes one to three business days. You'll get an email or notification when your account is approved and active. If the photos are unclear or documents are expired, Metrobank will ask you to resubmit — this adds another day or two to the timeline.

What happens after your account is active

Once verification is complete and your account is active, you can log into Metrobank's online banking platform or mobile app using your account number and password. You can view your balance, transfer money between your own accounts, and set up bill payments. If you opened the account at a branch, you may have received a debit card on the spot; if you verified online, the card will be mailed to your address within one to two weeks.

To deposit money into your new account, you can visit any Metrobank branch with cash, set up a transfer from another bank, or wait for your debit card to arrive and use ATMs. Some employers and government agencies can deposit directly into your account if you provide them your account number and routing information — Metrobank's website has the routing number for direct deposits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to visit a branch, or can I finish everything online?

You must complete identity verification somehow — either at a branch, through a video call, or by uploading documents. You cannot finish the entire process without one of these steps. The branch visit is usually fastest if you have time, since your account becomes active the same day.

What if my proof of address is older than three months?

Metrobank will not accept it. Get a newer document — a recent utility bill, credit card statement, or lease agreement. If you don't have one, contact Metrobank to ask what alternatives they accept, as policies vary slightly by branch.

How long does it take to get my debit card after opening the account?

If you opened the account at a branch, you may receive the card immediately or within a few days. If you verified online, the card is mailed to your address and typically arrives within one to two weeks. You can use online banking and ATM withdrawals before the card arrives.

Can I open a joint account online with someone else?

You can start the application online, but both account holders must complete verification — either both visit a branch together, or each completes a separate video call or document submission. Metrobank requires verification from everyone on the account.

What's the minimum amount I need to deposit to open the account?

Minimum opening deposits vary by account type. Some Metrobank savings accounts require P1,000 or P5,000 to open; others have no minimum. Check the account details on Metrobank's website or ask during your verification call to confirm the requirement for the account you're opening.