Europe’s second-largest neobank, bunq, has officially filed for a US de novo banking license with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). The move signals a major milestone in the bank’s strategy to serve the growing population of global citizens and digital professionals living between Europe and the United States. bunq aims to bring its secure, flexible banking model to users who require seamless financial services across borders.
Focusing on Digital Nomads and Global Citizens
bunq has tailored its services for digital nomads, a community that increasingly demands mobility, control, and security in financial management. Many current banking systems restrict movement and access, leaving internationally mobile professionals underserved. By leveraging its established expertise in secure digital payments, AI-driven fraud detection, and strong authentication, bunq seeks to provide peace of mind for users both at home and abroad.
Planned US Launch Strategy
Once approved, bunq plans to begin operations in major US metropolitan areas with significant expat populations. The bank will enable users to build US credit scores quickly by referencing European financial records, addressing a common barrier for newly-arrived expatriates. Eligible customers will also have the option to open accounts on both sides of the Atlantic, supporting truly cross-border financial management.
Leadership Perspective
Ali Niknam, founder and CEO of bunq, emphasized the need for a banking solution that aligns with the lifestyle of global citizens. He noted that users need a safe, secure, and intuitive banking experience wherever they reside or travel. “We want to give them the freedom to live the way they want, whether heading to America, returning to Europe, or moving between both,” Niknam said.
Regulatory Progress and Market Entry
The US banking license filing follows bunq’s recent approval as a broker-dealer by FINRA, a necessary step for its US market entry. The bank initiated the US banking license process in 2023 and pursued the broker-dealer license to support a comprehensive rollout of services. With both regulatory approvals underway, bunq is positioned to introduce its full suite of offerings to the US market.
Global Growth and Innovation
Operating in over 30 European markets, bunq has established itself as the world’s first GenAI-powered bank, offering services in 38 languages. The neobank recently surpassed 20 million users and continues to expand its footprint, with plans for a UK Electronic Money Institution (EMI) license. These milestones underscore bunq’s ambition to become the first truly global neobank.
About bunq
Founded to rethink banking from the ground up, bunq leverages proprietary AI across its operations, from user-facing services to internal management. The bank allows location-independent individuals and businesses to manage their finances—spending, saving, budgeting, and investing—with unmatched flexibility. bunq has a history of pioneering achievements, including securing the first European banking license in over 35 years and raising Europe’s largest Series A fintech funding round at $225 million.
With its US banking license application now submitted, bunq takes a decisive step toward expanding its global footprint. The bank’s focus on mobility, security, and innovative AI-driven services positions it as a compelling choice for digital natives and globally mobile professionals. As bunq moves closer to launching in the United States, it continues to build momentum toward becoming the first truly international neobank.