Banking in the Netherlands
Once you have registered in the Netherlands and have obtained your citizen service number (BSN), you are ready for the next step: opening a bank account. You need a Dutch bank account to receive your salary and pay your expenses. On this page, we provide information about opening a bank account, Dutch payment methods and online banking.
Opening a bank account
Before opening a Dutch bank account, you need to select a bank and an account that suits your requirements. There are many banks in the Netherlands to choose from. The biggest banks include ABN AMRO and Rabobank (both partners of the International Welcome Centre) as well as ING and ASN Bank. To open a private bank account, you can visit the nearest branch of the bank or visit its website to make an appointment online.
To open a bank account, you need to bring:
- Proof of ID (passport or identity card)
- Official proof of a Dutch address, such as a tenancy agreement
- Your citizen service number (BSN)
- If you are from a country outside the EU, your residence permit
- If you are a student, proof of enrolment at the university
Please note that most banks charge an annual fee for having an account with them. The fee depends on the type of account and the payment method(s) you choose.
Payment methods
It is important to know that payments in the Netherlands are usually made by debit card (connected to your Dutch bank account) or in cash with euros. Credit cards are mainly used for larger purchases and in restaurants, airports and clothing stores. Most supermarkets only accept debit cards or cash. Cheques are not commonly used in the Netherlands.
Online banking
Perhaps unlike what you are used to, many banks in the Netherlands operate mainly online. Customers can organise their financial affairs via online banking through the website or with a phone banking app. Online banking allows you to access your account anytime and anywhere and is a convenient, secure way to carry out financial transactions. Contact your bank for more information.