How to Open a Bank Account in the Netherlands: Procedure & Account Type

Opening a bank account in the Netherlands usually means showing a valid ID, proof of where you live, and, with some banks, your BSN. Many Dutch banks now let eligible customers apply online, though some applicants still need to get in touch with the bank or visit a branch. What you’ll need depends on your residency status and the kind of account you’re after.

Whether you’re moving and running a business in the Netherlands, sorting out your personal finances, or starting a business, the right bank account makes everyday payments and money management much easier. This guide covers the types of accounts available, how to open one, the documents you’ll need, the major banks, and what to think about before you apply.

Few Terms Related to Banking in the Netherlands

SEPA

SEPA stands for Single Euro Payments Area. It provides a common European framework for euro payments, making cross-border euro transfers and direct debits easier and more consistent across participating countries. The Netherlands is part of SEPA.

IBAN

IBAN stands for International Bank Account Number. It is a standard used to identify a payment account for bank transfers and other payments. A Dutch IBAN starts with “NL” and contains 18 characters. 

IBANs are used to identify payment accounts in SEPA and beyond. SEPA rules also mean that, in principle, euro payment accounts from other EU/EEA countries cannot be rejected simply because the IBAN was issued in another country. This is known as protection against IBAN discrimination.

Now that you are familiar with these terms, the next step is to understand the types of bank accounts available in the Netherlands.

Types of Bank Accounts Available in the Netherlands

1. Joint Bank Account

If you want to open an account with someone else, a joint account is an option. It can work well for couples, family members, or anyone sharing household expenses. Conditions, fees, the number of account holders, and access arrangements all depend on the bank.

2. Current Account

A current account (also called a payment account) is what most people use for everyday transactions. You can use it to receive your salary, make transfers, pay bills, use a debit card, and handle regular spending.

3. Savings Account

Savings accounts range from easy-access products to those designed for longer-term saving. Each bank offers its own savings options, interest rates, and conditions, so it’s worth comparing terms before you choose.

4. Business Bank Account

Companies and entrepreneurs use business accounts to keep business income and expenses separate from personal finances. You can use one to receive customer payments, pay suppliers, cover operating costs, and make business transfers. When you apply, the bank or payment provider may ask for company registration details, information about directors and UBOs, your business activities, expected transactions, and other verification details.

Requirements can differ a lot between providers, so business owners should check the specifics before applying.

Read More: Planning a business in the Netherlands? Learn how Bank Holidays in the Netherlands affect business operations and get expert guidance today.

Types of Banks and Payment Providers in the Netherlands

In the Netherlands, individuals and businesses can choose from traditional banks, digital banks, and other regulated payment providers.

• Commercial and Traditional Banks: Traditional banks generally provide a wide range of financial services, including payment accounts, savings accounts, loans, and business banking services.
• Online and Digital Banks: Digital banks provide their services mainly through websites and mobile applications. They can be convenient for customers who prefer managing their accounts online.

The Dutch Payments Association notes that payment accounts can also be offered by Electronic Money Institutions (EMIs). EMIs are regulated payment providers, but they aren’t banks and don’t offer the same deposit-guarantee protection.

Whether a traditional bank, a digital bank, or another payment provider suits you best depends on your needs, such as account services, costs, customer support, and whether you need a Dutch IBAN.

What Are the Biggest Banks in the Netherlands?

• ING: ING is one of the major banking providers in the Netherlands and offers personal and business banking services.
• Rabobank: Rabobank is one of the major Dutch banks and offers personal and business banking products. Rabobank also provides an online application process for eligible customers through its mobile app. Its current online application requirements include a valid identity document and BSN, among other conditions.
• ABN AMRO: ABN AMRO offers current accounts, savings products, and business banking services. ABN AMRO currently allows eligible customers to apply for a personal account through its app. In certain situations, an eligible customer can start the application without a BSN and provide the BSN later.
• ASN Bank: ASN Bank is another established banking provider in the Netherlands offering payment and savings products. The Dutch Payments Association’s provider overview, updated in April 2026, lists ABN AMRO, ASN Bank, ING, Rabobank, bunq, Knab, Triodos Bank and several other providers offering payment accounts in the Netherlands.

These are some of the well-known banking providers available in the Netherlands. However, the largest bank is not necessarily the best choice for every customer. Certain factors should be considered before opening an account.

How to Select the Best Bank to Open a Bank Account in the Netherlands?

When an individual chooses to open a bank account in the Netherlands, the best way to select a bank is to understand the advantages and disadvantages of the available options. 

The right bank you select depends on your individual circumstances. The following factors should be considered:

1. Costs: The less a bank charges for its services, the more attractive the account may be to customers. Compare monthly account fees, debit card charges, transfer fees, ATM charges, and other service costs before opening an account.
2. Services Offered by the Bank: Banks differ in what they provide. Depending on your needs, check whether they offer savings products, international transfers, business banking, loans, and other financial services.
3. Accessibility: Easy access makes managing your account more convenient. Consider whether the provider has physical branches, phone support, online banking, or a mobile app.
4. English-Speaking Services: Settling into a new country can come with a language barrier. For international residents and entrepreneurs, English-language customer support can be a deciding factor.
5. Digital Banking and Payment Services: If you prefer online banking, check the quality of the provider’s mobile application and online services. You should also check whether commonly used Dutch payment services are supported. The Dutch Payments Association states that iDEAL | Wero is widely used for online payments in the Netherlands and works with payment accounts at many Dutch banks. 

Once you’ve chosen a provider, the next step is understanding how the account-opening process works.

Procedure to Open a Bank Account in the Netherlands

Opening a bank account in the Netherlands is generally straightforward as long as you meet the bank’s requirements and provide the requested documents.

In-Person

To open a bank account in person, follow these steps:

• Select the bank where you wish to open a bank account.
• Check the documents required by the bank.
• Schedule an appointment if required.
• Visit the bank with your documents.
• Complete the identity and customer verification process.
• Wait for confirmation and delivery of your card or other banking materials.
• Activate your account and set up digital banking.

Foreign applicants, or those with a more complicated residency situation, may be asked for extra information or told to contact the bank before applying.

Online

Many banks now provide online account-opening facilities for eligible customers. The general process includes:

• Choose a bank and check whether you are eligible to apply online.
• Select the type of account you want to open.
• Complete the online application.
• Upload or photograph the required identification documents.
• Complete identity verification.
• Provide any additional information requested by the bank.
• Wait for confirmation.
• Activate your account and digital banking services.

For example, ABN AMRO currently offers an app-based application for eligible customers. Rabobank also accepts online applications, though its requirements include a BSN and other eligibility conditions.

So it’s no longer accurate to say a Dutch bank account must always be opened in person. Whether you can apply online depends on the bank and your personal circumstances.

Documents Required to Open a Dutch Bank Account?

You may need the following documents to open a bank account in the Netherlands:

• Valid passport or identity card
• Proof of address or residence
• BSN, where required by the bank
• Residence permit, where applicable
• Additional tax or identification information requested by the bank

The exact documents depend on the bank and your situation. For instance, if you use a non-Dutch identity document, you may need to provide extra proof of residence. If you’re staying in the Netherlands for more than four months, you generally need to register as a resident with your municipality. When you register, you receive a BSN, which you’ll use for dealings with the Dutch government and other services.

Is a BSN Required to Open a Bank Account?

A BSN is commonly required, particularly when you are liable to pay tax in the Netherlands. The Dutch government states that banks need the BSN when providing relevant account information to the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration.

However, the timing can vary by bank. For example, ABN AMRO states that eligible customers can open an account without a BSN initially and provide it within the required period. Other banks may require a BSN before allowing an online application. So check the current requirements of your chosen bank rather than assuming the same BSN rule applies everywhere.

Opening a Bank Account as a Foreigner

Foreigners can open a bank account in the Netherlands if they meet the chosen provider’s eligibility and identification requirements. Depending on their situation, they may need a passport, proof of Dutch residence, a residence permit, a BSN, or additional information. 

If you’re moving to the Netherlands, your options may also depend on whether you already have a Dutch address and whether you’re registered with the municipality.

Business Bank Account in the Netherlands

A business bank account helps companies keep their finances separate from personal money.

It can be used for:

• Receiving payments from customers
• Paying suppliers
• Managing business expenses
• Paying employees and contractors
• Making domestic and international transfers
• Managing company cash flow

Banks and payment providers may carry out extra customer and business checks before opening an account. Under anti-money-laundering rules, Dutch financial institutions are required to identify their customers and investigate certain transactions. For a company, the provider may therefore ask for information about the business, its directors, UBOs, business activities, expected transactions, and source of funds.

How Long Does It Take to Open a Dutch Bank Account?

After you apply, processing time depends on the provider, the account type, the application method, and whether further verification is needed. Some eligible online applications are processed fairly quickly, while those needing extra documents or manual checks can take longer. 

ABN AMRO, for example, states that eligible applicants can get an update on their application within four hours, with the debit card delivered separately once the account is approved.

Conclusion

The Netherlands has a well-developed banking system, with traditional banks, digital banks, and other regulated payment providers. Whether you’re relocating for work, managing your personal finances, or building a business, choosing the right account makes it easier to handle payments, expenses, savings, and other transactions. 

Opening an account has also become more digital, with several providers now offering online applications to eligible customers. Still, requirements around identification, residence, BSN, and business information can differ from one provider to another. If you are planning to establish a company in the Netherlands, OnDemand International can assist you with company formation and provide guidance on the requirements involved in setting up suitable banking arrangements for your business.

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