A Guide to Open Bank Account in The Netherlands

If you planning to stay in the Netherlands for a long time, there is a long list of things. Out of all things what you must consider or do after is to open a bank account in the Netherlands.

Opening a bank account is a crucial step and a Dutch account will make your life far more manageable! And to make this process simpler for you, we are here with the Step-by-Step Guide to Open Bank Account in the Netherlands.

Types of Bank Accounts in the Netherlands

Dutch banks offer mainly two types of accounts:

1. Current account or checking account: This is your everyday go-to bank. Expats with this account get instant access to money, debit/credit card options, mobile banking facilities in the Netherlands, and more.
   
   Banks usually offer different current accounts, such as a standard account, a young person’s account, or a student account.
   
2. Savings account: These can range from instant access to long-term deposit accounts, which you can use to save for any of your life needs. Every bank has its own savings packages.

Documents required to Open Bank Account in the Netherlands

Here is the list of crucial documents that you will need to open a Bank Account in the Netherlands in 2022:

• A valid ID such as a passport or identity card
  
• Proof of address (a rental agreement)
  
• Proof of income (bank statement or employment contract)
  
• Residency permit for a non-EU resident
  
• Your BSN number (citizen service number which you will get when you register with the municipality you live in)

Steps to Open a Bank Account

• Most banks in the Netherlands allow you to open up an account either in person by visiting a branch or online via their website. If you want to open an account at a branch, check to see whether you need to make an appointment first.
  
• Dutch banks are typically open from around 09:00–17:00 Mondays to Fridays. Many are also open either half-day or full-day on Saturdays. So be there on time and keep a check on banks on Saturdays.
  
• If opening a joint account, then documents for both account holders will be required. When opening some accounts, you may also be asked for evidence of income, such as an employment contract or payslip.
  
• Dutch banks may check the credit rating of new customers with the Central Credit Registration Office (BKR).
  
• After verification of your documents, a bank account gets opened for you.
  
• You will receive your bank card (usually a debit card as standard) and account information through the post in a few days with a four-digit PIN code.

Steps to Open a Bank Account in the Netherlands from Abroad

• You can access online or mobile banking as a Dutch resident by simply visiting the bank’s website and signing up (for online banking) or downloading the banking app (for mobile banking).
  
• Mobile-only accounts such as those available through N26 and bunq can be accessed by both residents and non-residents.
  
• Accounts can be opened in minutes using nothing more than your mobile phone. All you will need to provide is a mobile number, e-mail address, and a physical address (which doesn’t have to be a Dutch address). See this guide to mobile banking in the Netherlands for more information.

Top Banks in the Netherlands

If you are thinking of finding a perfect bank that fulfils all your requirements, here’s the list of top Banks in the Netherlands:

• ABN AMRO
• Rabobank
• ING
• SNS Bank
• ASN Bank
• Triodos

Banking and managing your money are critical. So, Happy Banking, Readers!!!

Also, Check Out the 8 Best Money Saving Apps in the Netherlands to Save That Last Euro.