Citigroup Cuts Account-Opening Review to 15 Minutes with AI
Citigroup’s AI-powered document-processing tool has reduced account-opening document review from roughly one hour to 15 minutes. The bank aims to shrink its technology contractor headcount from 50% to 20% while deploying AI to migrate legacy data and automate 50 prioritized processes companywide.
1. AI Accelerates Client Onboarding
Citigroup’s AI-driven document-processing tool has cut the document review stage for new accounts from roughly one hour to 15 minutes, significantly speeding client onboarding in its US services division.
2. Legacy System Migration and Testing
The bank is leveraging AI to migrate data from legacy software platforms, automate coding tasks and accelerate testing cycles, positioning the technology stack for full retirement of older systems.
3. Contractor Reduction Plan
Since 2025 Citigroup has reduced its reliance on IT contractors from 50% of its tech workforce toward a 20% target, increasing permanent hires to reshape the 50,000-strong technology team.
4. AI Deployment and Governance
In October 2025 Citigroup mandated AI training for 175,000 employees, and has selected 50 processes, including client and employee onboarding and KYC, for AI-driven automation to strengthen controls under existing regulatory orders.