Introduction
Opening a Dutch bank account is usually one of the first practical steps after moving to the Netherlands.
You will likely need a local account to receive your salary, pay rent, set up health insurance, pay for subscriptions and utilities, and use iDEAL payments online.
Most banks require a passport or valid ID, a Dutch address, a BSN (citizen service number), and a residence permit if applicable. However, some banks allow accounts to be opened before receiving a BSN as long as the number is provided later.
- Receive your salary
- Pay rent
- Set up health insurance
- Pay for subscriptions and utilities
- Use iDEAL payments online
Why Expats Need a Dutch Bank Account
Most financial activities in the Netherlands rely on local banking. You will typically need a Dutch account for salary payments, rent payments, health insurance premiums, taxes, utilities, and online payments using iDEAL.
Card payments are widely used and some businesses only accept debit cards linked to Dutch accounts.
- Salary payments
- Rent payments
- Health insurance premiums
- Taxes
- Utilities
- Online payments using iDEAL
Requirements to Open a Bank Account
Banks typically ask for a standard set of documents. You receive a BSN after registering with a municipality, so planning your registration appointment early helps with banking setup.
- Passport or EU ID
- BSN (Citizen Service Number)
- Dutch residential address
- Residence permit if applicable
- Proof of income or employment in some cases
Do You Need a BSN First?
Most banks require a BSN for regulatory and tax reporting reasons. However, some banks allow opening the account first and submitting the BSN within about 90 days.
Examples include ABN AMRO, bunq, and ING—but this depends on your passport type and the bank’s current onboarding process. Always check the latest requirements on the bank’s website.
BSN and timing
If you do not yet have a BSN, look for providers that allow you to start the process and provide your BSN later. EUR.nl notes that some banks allow this; confirm directly with the bank.
Best Banks in the Netherlands for Expats
The table below compares expat-friendly options. Digital banks often allow faster onboarding and may be easier if you are still waiting for documents or prefer a mobile-first setup.
| Bank | Type | Monthly Fee | English Support | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ABN AMRO | Traditional bank | ~€4/month | Yes | Expats and international workers |
| ING | Traditional bank | ~€3–€4/month | Yes | Large branch network |
| bunq | Digital bank | Free–€3.99+ | Yes | Mobile-first expats |
| Wise | Financial platform | Low fee transfers | Yes | International transfers |
Comparison of Major Banks in the Netherlands
Below is a detailed comparison of major banks and financial platforms used by expats in the Netherlands. Includes overview, main features, pros and cons, typical costs, and links to each provider. Always confirm current offers and requirements on the bank’s website.
ABN AMRO
Traditional bank
One of the largest Dutch banks, with dedicated expat services, English-language information, and a strong branch network. Popular with international workers and employers for salary accounts.
Typical costs: Around €4/month for a basic current account; premium and packaged accounts cost more.
Features
- Expat-focused onboarding and English support
- Full current account with iDEAL and Maestro
- Branches and in-person support
- Mortgages, savings, and investments
- May allow account opening before BSN in some cases
Pros
- Widely recognised; many employers use ABN AMRO
- Clear expat information and dedicated pages
- Full-service banking and branch access
- Strong app and online banking
Cons
- Monthly fee for standard accounts
- Account approval can take a few days
- Some products require BSN and proof of address
ING
Traditional bank
The largest bank in the Netherlands by customers, with a broad branch and ATM network. Offers English-language options and is commonly used for everyday banking and salary.
Typical costs: Around €3–€4/month for a basic account; packaged and premium options available.
Features
- Wide branch and ATM network
- English website and app options
- Current accounts, savings, mortgages, insurance
- iDEAL and Maestro debit cards
- International transfers and multi-currency options
Pros
- Very large network; easy to find ATMs and branches
- Familiar to many Dutch employers
- Competitive basic account fees
- Good mobile app
Cons
- BSN and Dutch address usually required
- Less expat-specific onboarding than ABN AMRO
- Some processes mainly in Dutch
Rabobank
Traditional bank
A major Dutch cooperative bank with a strong presence nationwide. Offers full banking services; often chosen by people who prefer a traditional bank with a cooperative structure.
Typical costs: Around €3–€5/month for a basic account; package deals may reduce fees.
Features
- Full-service banking and branch network
- Current and savings accounts, mortgages, loans
- iDEAL and Maestro
- Dutch-focused but with options for internationals
Pros
- Stable, well-known institution
- Many branches and ATMs
- Competitive rates on some products
Cons
- Less expat-oriented than ABN AMRO or ING
- English information can be limited
- BSN and address typically required from the start
bunq
Digital bank
Dutch-licensed digital bank with a strong focus on expats and internationals. App-based onboarding, English throughout, and often faster account opening; some options allow starting before you have a BSN.
Typical costs: Free tier available; paid plans from around €2.99–€3.99/month and up.
Features
- App-only banking; no branches
- Full English; expat-oriented
- Dutch IBAN, iDEAL, and Maestro
- Free and paid plans; multiple sub-accounts
- Fast onboarding; possible to open before BSN in some cases
Pros
- Very fast, simple sign-up for many users
- Designed for internationals and expats
- Free tier available
- Useful for early arrival when other banks are slower
Cons
- No physical branches
- Paid features can add up if you use premium options
- Not a full-service bank for mortgages or complex products
Wise
Financial platform
Financial platform (not a full bank in the Netherlands) offering multi-currency accounts and Dutch IBAN for receiving and sending money. Often used for international transfers and as a complement to a local bank.
Typical costs: No monthly account fee; pay per transfer and conversion; card and other fees apply depending on use.
Features
- Dutch IBAN for receiving euro payments
- Multi-currency accounts and conversions
- International transfers at transparent fees
- Debit card for spending
- Useful for salary, rent, or moving money to the Netherlands
Pros
- Low, transparent fees for international transfers
- Dutch IBAN without needing a traditional bank first
- Good for receiving salary or rent from abroad
- Simple sign-up and English interface
Cons
- Not a full bank; no iDEAL or full Dutch banking suite
- Some employers or landlords may prefer a traditional bank IBAN
- Best used alongside a Dutch bank for local payments
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Traditional Banks vs Digital Banks
Traditional banks such as ABN AMRO, ING, and Rabobank offer branches, mortgages and loans, and full financial services. They suit people who want in-person support and a full range of products.
Digital banks such as bunq, Wise, and N26 offer fast onboarding, mobile-first apps, and often easier international transfers. They can be a good first step or complement to a traditional account.
- Traditional: ABN AMRO, ING, Rabobank — branches, mortgages, full services.
- Digital: bunq, Wise, N26 — fast onboarding, mobile-first, easier international transfers.
Business Bank Accounts
Entrepreneurs and freelancers may need a business account in addition to a personal one. Requirements usually include a KvK registration number, business documents, and tax information. Business accounts can take longer to approve than personal accounts, so plan ahead.
Typical Costs
Monthly fees vary by provider and plan. Extra costs may apply for international transfers, credit cards, or premium accounts.
| Type | Typical monthly cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional bank accounts | €3 – €5 / month | Basic current account |
| Digital banks | €0 – €10 depending on plan | Free tiers often available |
| International transfers | Varies | Check provider fees |
| Credit cards / premium | Varies | Optional add-ons |
Useful Services
These services are commonly used by expats for banking, insurance, housing, and mobile setup during relocation. Compare options and confirm terms on the providers’ sites.
Services often used in this step
bunq
Dutch digital bank with expat-friendly onboarding and English support; useful for opening an account quickly.
Free and paid plans.
Fast app-based account opening.
Wise
Multi-currency account and international transfers; useful for moving money into the Netherlands and managing foreign currency.
Transfer fees vary.
Low-cost international transfers.
Independer
Insurance comparison site often used to compare Dutch health insurance and other insurance options.
Comparison platform; insurer premiums vary.
Useful when evaluating health insurance after arrival.
Simyo
Dutch SIM-only mobile provider; useful once you want a local number for banking and admin.
Budget monthly plans.
Local number for 2FA and correspondence.
HousingAnywhere
Temporary and medium-term rentals often used by internationals before or after arrival.
Housing prices vary by city.
Relevant when you need an address for registration and banking.
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Official Sources
Use these official sources to confirm current requirements and procedures. Bank rules and product details can change.