What do you need to open a bank account?

  • Valid passport
  • Proof of address (e.g., a rental contract or utility bill)
  • Residency permit if you’re from outside the EU

Opening a bank account

The Netherlands has several banks where you can open a regular or online account. To keep things simple, we have compared three banks for you: the biggest bank in the Netherlands ABN, and online banks Bunq and Revolut. Bunq and Revolut are mobile banks: they do not have physical locations and handle everything online through their app. You can use the links in the following table to open a bank account.

 

Our top 3 bank accounts - July 2023

BSN necessary
In English
Online/offline bank
Other
ABN Amro
BSN necessary
Yes
In English
Yes
Online/offline bank
Online and offline
Other
Biggest bank in the Netherlands
Star Star Star Star Star
Revolut
BSN necessary
No
In English
Yes
Online/offline bank
Online
Other
For both banking and investing
Star Star Star Star Star
Bunq
BSN necessary
No
In English
Yes
Online/offline bank
Online
Other
Highest interest rates on savings
Star Star Star Star Star
Info
Important

We will redirect you to our partner’s website, which may only be available in Dutch. With the Google translate plugin of Google Chrome, you can easily translate any website into a language of your preference

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What is iDEAL?

iDEAL is an online paying method used to pay via your bank account.

What is Tikkie?

Tikkie is a free app to send payment requests to friends, family or acquaintances. It’s convenient when you paid for the whole meal at a restaurant or are collecting money for a gift for a coworker.

Can I use my credit card in the Netherlands?

Yes you can, but be aware that the Dutch generally don’t like credit cards because they dislike the idea of debt. Keep in mind that in many Dutch supermarkets, like Albert Heijn, credit cards are not accepted. The Dutch usually pay in stores with their debit card and use iDEAL for online purchases.

Other services

Are you moving to the Netherlands, or are you already here? You have to arrange a lot of things. We can help you with the tasks listed below. Click on a category you want to find out more about.

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