How to open a Wise account: complete step-by-step guide

Why open an account with Wise?

Before we get to the step-by-step process, it's worth remembering why Wise is so advantageous:

Real commercial exchange rate (no hidden fees);
Much lower transfer fees than banks and exchange offices;
Multi-currency account (in dollars, euros, reais, pounds and more);
International debit card available in some countries;
All 100% digital, with a practical application and support in Portuguese.

Whether you want to send or receive money from Brazil, pay for international services, or even store different currencies in a single account, Wise is an excellent choice.

What you need to open a Wise account

For Brazilians, the process is quite simple. Here's what you'll need:

A valid email address;
A photo ID (can be passport, ID or driver's license);
A valid address (in the US or Brazil, depending on the account's primary currency);
A cell phone with internet access (to receive verification codes).

You you do not need to have a Social Security Number (SSN) to open your account. In many cases, the Brazilian passport is sufficient.

Step by step: how to open your Wise account

1. Access the official website or download the app

You can start your registration on the official Wise website or download the app available for iOS and Android.

Tip: The app is super intuitive, and many users prefer to manage everything there.

2. Click “Create account”

Choose the “Individual” option and enter your e-mail, Country of Residence and create a password. If you're in the US, select "United States" as your country.

You can also sign in using your Google or Apple account if you prefer.

3. Choose the account type

Wise offers two main account types:

Personal account (individual, for personal and family use);
Business account (ideal for businesses or freelancers who issue invoices abroad).

Most people start with a personal account. Later, you can add a business account if you wish.

4. Fill in your basic information

You will need to provide:

Full name
Date of birth
Home address
Telephone number (with country code)

This information is essential to verify your identity and ensure account security.

5. Verify your identity

This step may vary depending on your country and the amount you intend to transfer. Wise may request:

Photo of a photo ID (passport, ID, driver's license)
Selfie holding the document
In some cases, proof of address

Everything is done online, via the app or website, with fast and secure shipping.

6. Activate your account

After verification, Wise activates your account and you can now:

Receive international transfers
Convert currencies with real exchange rate
Request the Wise international card (available to residents of some countries, such as the US and Europe)
Create local accounts in different currencies (with account number, branch, IBAN, etc.)

How Wise's multi-currency account works

One of Wise's greatest assets is multicurrency account, which allows you to maintain balances in over 50 different currencies. You can:

Receive in dollars, euros, pounds, reais and much more;
Convert the amount with the real exchange rate, instantly;
Pay for services and ship to other countries at very low rates.

And the best part: you can have local bank details from different countries, such as:

US account (routing number and account number);
Account in Europe (IBAN);
UK account (sort code);
Account in Australia, New Zealand and other locations.

This makes it easy to receive payments as if you had a local account in each of these locations.

Wise Card: How to Apply

If you live in the United States, you can apply for the Wise international debit card. It works like a prepaid card:

It can be used in physical stores, online and for ATM withdrawals;
Currency conversion is automatic, with the best possible rate;
Ideal for travel or shopping on international websites.

The card is sent to your address in the US and, once received, simply activate it through the app and start using it.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to live in the US to open a Wise account?

No. You can open the account whether you live in Brazil or other countries. However, if you want to use the Wise card, it's only available in certain countries (such as the US, Europe, the UK, and Australia).

Do I need to have a bank account in the US?

No. Wise works independently. You can connect a bank account to send or withdraw funds, but it's not required.

Is Wise safe for storing money?

Yes. The company is regulated by reputable financial institutions worldwide and separates client funds from its own, ensuring protection even in extreme cases.

Conclusion: Opening your Wise account is a smart move

For those who live between countries, work online, or need to send and receive money frequently, Wise is more than just an account; it's a modern, transparent, and fair financial solution.

With an account open, you gain autonomy, control, and access to a multi-currency system that works to your advantage.

And the best part: all this without complications, without paperwork and with support in Portuguese.

ACCESS HERE

Source of information: wise.com/

Written by Dinho

Updated July 9, 2025

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