Republic Bank (EC) Limited announced the launch of the First Step Account (FISA), introduced on September 1, 2025, to provide accessible banking solutions for individuals who may not meet traditional account-opening requirements.
Available at all Republic Bank branches across Anguilla, Dominica, Grenada, St Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia and St Vincent and the Grenadines, the First Step Account can be opened with just one valid photo ID — such as a national ID card, driver’s license, or passport. This account is specifically designed for those unable to provide proof of income or address, which are common barriers to entry in the formal banking system.
The First Step Account is aligned with the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank’s (ECCB) regional initiative under the ECCU First Step Savings Account framework, aimed at expanding access to basic banking services. It also reflects Republic Bank’s commitment to sustainable banking, as a signatory to the UN Principles for Responsible Banking, and supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. By offering a secure and affordable entry point into the financial system, Republic Bank is helping to build a more inclusive and financially resilient Eastern Caribbean.
Customers who open the First Step Account will also have access to Republic Bank’s suite of services, including:
- ATM access
- Debit card usage
- RepublicOnline and RepublicMobile banking
- Bill payment services.
“We want every resident to feel welcome in the banking system,” said Ron Leon, Senior Manager Corporate Services, Republic Bank (EC) Limited. “The First Step Account is about removing barriers and opening doors. We’re committed to being part of the solution by making banking more accessible to all.”
For more information, including how to apply, customers are encouraged to visit our website or their nearest Republic Bank branch.
Those stupid rules should not have been introduced in the Caribbean in the first place and ought to be scrapped. our reality, our economy, suggest this was never a good idea. As for their concerns that certain people will access the banking system, this is shortsighted. The billions and trillions generated and protected , through activities, like slavery, colonization. where forced labour provided trillions to develop other countries, does not sit in Caribbean banks. It is in their own institutions, used by their own people protected by their own people. And if Caribbean countries are given pressure to prevent banking for the unbanked, why are they not calling things out? afterall we do understand, why , a farmer for instance, sell livestock and food, but can’t prove a paper trail for source of income, although that source is obvious. However, if he wants to save, the Caribbean banks prevent that. What kind of economy and what kind of future are you all building with this mentality?
Thanks you for this with this options I know a lot of people whom I will recommend in opening an account
Is this service in Trinidad 🇹🇹
Tell this to republic bank Guyana, as a Guyanese citizen returning back after many years overseas, they were the most difficult to start an account with.
All the intimate and personal information they want, all I’m doing is open an account not borrowing any money from the institution.
GET IT RIGHT REPUBLIC BANK.
There should be one in Trinidad