Banking & Finance
Before you move to Mauritania, understanding the local banking system can save you weeks of frustration and unexpected fees.
Banking Overview in Mauritania
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Currency | Mauritanian ouguiya (MRU) UM |
| Bank Account for Foreigners | May be possible — confirm with the bank |
| Access Difficulty | Medium |
| Remote Opening | No |
| Wise Available | No |
| N26 Available | No |
Opening a Bank Account in Mauritania
Foreign nationals may be able to open a bank account in Mauritania, but we have not independently verified this — confirm the current rules directly with the bank, in writing, before you rely on it. The process difficulty is rated as medium, which means you should expect some bureaucracy and possibly language barriers.
Required Documents
- Valid passport or national ID
- Proof of address / residence registration
- Residence permit (if applicable)
- Tax identification number (if available)
- Initial deposit (amount varies by bank)
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Banks in Mauritania — remote & non-resident opening
Named banks operating in Mauritania, and what our automated research found about non-resident remote account opening (no branch visit required). This has not been verified by a human reviewer — use it as a starting point and confirm directly with the bank.
| Bank | Remote opening | Confidence | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Attijari Bank Mauritanie | May require an in-person visit — confirm with the bank directly | Medium | No Mauritania remote opening for non-residents; online MRE flow is the Moroccan parent only. |
| Banque Mauritanienne pour le Commerce International (BMCI) | May require an in-person visit — confirm with the bank directly | Low | Has an online account-opening page but no evidence it accepts non-residents abroad; flow aimed at local clients. |
| Banque Nationale de Mauritanie (BNM) | May require an in-person visit — confirm with the bank directly | Medium | Diaspora opening is for Mauritanian nationals via email or France partner; no path for non-resident foreigners. |
| Banque Populaire de Mauritanie (BPM) | May require an in-person visit — confirm with the bank directly | High | Bankily app requires Mauritanian NNI or local residence permit; only residents in Mauritania can open. |
| Société Générale Mauritanie | May require an in-person visit — confirm with the bank directly | High | Foreigners must present a residence card or work permit; requires local presence, no remote opening from abroad. |
Last checked 2026-06-22 · Source: official bank websites, gathered via automated research that has not been reviewed by our founder — treat every row as a lead, not a verified fact, and confirm directly with the bank before you rely on it. Research confidence: High = clear supporting evidence found · Medium = partial or indirect evidence · Low = weak or conflicting evidence · Unrated = no confidence assessment recorded (unreviewed automated research).
Digital Banking Options
Wise (TransferWise)
Wise has limited availability in Mauritania. While you may be able to send money to Mauritania, full local account features may not be available. Check their website for the latest on Mauritania-specific services.
N26
We have no record of N26 operating in Mauritania — check N26's own country list, as their coverage changes. You may need to consider local digital bank alternatives or traditional banks.
International Transfers
When transferring money to or from Mauritania, consider these factors:
- Exchange rate: The currency is MRU. Always compare the offered rate with the mid-market rate.
- Transfer fees: Transfer fees vary — compare providers like Wise for the best rates.
- Transfer speed: Bank-to-bank (SWIFT) transfers take 2-5 business days. Digital services often complete within 1-2 days.
- Regular transfers: If sending money home regularly, set up a recurring transfer to lock in better rates.
Salary and Everyday Banking
The average salary in Mauritania is approximately €125 per month. Your employer will typically require a local bank account for salary deposits. Most banks offer:
- Debit card (Visa or Mastercard)
- Online banking portal and mobile app
- Direct debit setup for rent and utilities
- ATM withdrawals (check fee policies)
Tips for Expats
- Set up online banking immediately: Most routine transactions can be handled online or via app, saving you queues and branch visits.
- Open your account early: Visit a bank branch within your first week. Having a local account speeds up everything from rent to mobile contracts.
- Learn key banking terms: A few words in the local language go a long way at the bank counter and when reading statements.
- Compare fees before choosing: Monthly account fees, ATM charges, and international transfer costs vary wildly between banks. Ask before you open.
- Ask about expat-friendly packages: Some banks offer special accounts for foreign residents with English-language support and lower fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do ATM withdrawals work in Mauritania?
ATMs are widely available in Mauritania. Your bank's ATM network is usually free; out-of-network ATMs may charge UM1-5 per withdrawal. International cards may incur additional fees.
How do international money transfers work from Mauritania?
You can transfer money from Mauritania via SWIFT bank transfers (2-5 days, higher fees) or digital services . Compare rates between your bank and specialist transfer services to save on fees.
What is the local currency in Mauritania?
The local currency in Mauritania is Mauritanian ouguiya (MRU), represented by the symbol UM. Most payments can be made by card, though cash may still be important in some contexts.
Is cryptocurrency banking available in Mauritania?
Cryptocurrency regulation in Mauritania varies. Some banks allow crypto-related transactions while others restrict them. Dedicated crypto exchanges operate in many countries. Check local regulations before trading or holding crypto assets in Mauritania.
Are there any fees for maintaining a bank account in Mauritania?
Many banks in Mauritania charge monthly maintenance fees ranging from UM2 to UM15. Some offer free accounts if you maintain a minimum balance or receive a regular salary.
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About the author
António Mira is the founder of whereTOemigrate. For over a decade he has worked at the intersection of Portuguese real estate and overseas business, helping international clients navigate the cross-border decisions that come with relocating. He sits on the board of CCIAP (Portuguese-Arab Chamber of Commerce), the Portuguese-Saudi Business Council, and the Portugal-Hong Kong Business Association — always with one focus: enabling overseas business and human mobility into and out of Portugal.
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