How to Open a Domestic Offshore Account?
Recent research shows that over 60% of Chinese cross-border enterprises rely on offshore accounts to manage global trade, receive payments from overseas clients, and pay international suppliers. However, many of these businesses face the same challenge right after registration: how can a company actually open a domestic offshore account?
The short answer: it requires careful preparation of documents, compliance checks, and choosing a bank that truly understands offshore structures. Among the available options, CBiBank has emerged as a practical choice for many SMEs, offering a faster and more accessible process than most traditional banks.
Let’s break down the steps in detail.
🏦 What Is a Domestic Offshore Account?
A domestic offshore account is a corporate bank account set up within mainland China or nearby regions, specifically designed to support international trade and cross-border transactions. Unlike standard domestic accounts, it allows companies to:
Receive payments directly from overseas clients
Send funds abroad to suppliers or partners
Manage transactions in multiple currencies
Operate with fewer foreign exchange restrictions
For exporters, importers, and cross-border e-commerce sellers, this type of account has become almost essential.
📑 Documents You Need to Prepare
Banks require a standard set of documents before approving an offshore account. These usually include:
Company registration certificate
Articles of association
Shareholder and director list
Business proof (contracts, invoices, agreements)
Financial or tax documents
Due diligence and application forms
⚠️ Reminder: Incomplete or unclear documents are the number one reason for delays and rejections.
🔑 Step-by-Step Process
Submit an Application Online
Provide company details and upload the necessary documents.
Video Verification
Instead of visiting in person, banks now use short video calls with directors or shareholders.
Compliance Review
The bank checks your business activities against anti-money laundering (AML) rules.
Approval
Once cleared, your account can be opened in 1–3 working days.
Access Banking Tools
You’ll receive login credentials or a UKEY to manage transactions securely.
🌍 Why Many Companies Turn to CBiBank
This is where CBiBank makes a difference. As a U.S.-based commercial bank that supports offshore structures—including Hong Kong, BVI, and Chinese enterprises—CBiBank has become a go-to option for SMEs.
Fully remote process: Apply online, verify by video, and avoid unnecessary travel.
Broad coverage: Accepts companies across industries such as logistics, consulting, IT, and e-commerce.
Multi-currency support: Handles 20+ global currencies (USD, EUR, GBP, HKD, JPY, and more).
Fast turnaround: Most accounts are ready in just a few days.
Stable operations: Reliable cross-border transfers without sudden freezes.
👉 Learn more here: CBiBank Official Link
⚠️ Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Submitting incomplete shareholder information
Not providing clear business proof (contracts, websites, invoices)
Rushing paperwork instead of preparing in advance
Underestimating compliance checks
🧾 FAQ
1. Can new companies open a domestic offshore account?
Yes, but you must provide credible proof of intended business.
2. Do I need to go in person?
No, most processes—including CBiBank—are fully online with video verification.
3. How long does it take?
Usually 1–3 business days after all documents are approved.
4. What currencies are supported?
Over 20, including USD, EUR, GBP, JPY, and HKD.
5. Is it suitable for SMEs?
Absolutely. Domestic offshore accounts are widely used by small and mid-sized companies engaged in global trade.
📌 Conclusion
So, how to open a domestic offshore account?
The key is preparation: gather all the necessary documents, be ready to show proof of business, and choose a bank that can process applications efficiently. While traditional banks often require lengthy procedures, CBiBank offers a faster, more reliable solution—making it one of the most practical options for Chinese enterprises entering global markets.
For SMEs aiming to expand internationally, opening a domestic offshore account is not just paperwork—it’s the first real step toward global growth.