I lived in Spain for four years. When I left, I never closed my account. Recently, I called the bank and they said that I had a negative 5 euro balance, and, to close the account, I needed to contact the branch where I opened it. They told me there were no fees associated with it and that the account was frozen.
A month or two later, I called them and they said that to close the account fully I need to pay maintenance fees and, in total, I owe them 137 euros. Evidently, there were fees. What should I do? Is it possible to pay the five euros and then do nothing?
I love Spain but Spanish banks are basically a legalised shakedown. I’m guessing you’re with Santander, certainly sounds like them.
Personally I’d ask them to waive the fees, but if they aren’t feeling generous I’d just pay them and get the closure in writing. It’s worth it to get them off your back. They WILL keep stacking fees otherwise, then when it’s finally become a large sum of money they’ll start chasing you internationally through local courts. Your only reprieve will be pointing to any EU law that says they’re not supposed to do that, but it will be a massive headache.
I hope that one day Brussels will force them to clean up their act.