Open a Dutch bank account

The Dutch very rarely pay with cash. They love paying by card. Opening a Dutch bank account makes everyday life much easier.

Why open a Dutch bank account?

• Avoid International money transfer fees and delays.
• Pay easily by debit card, as credit cards are not widely accepted. 
• A Dutch bank account offers the option to use iDEAL/Wero for online purchases, bills and payment requests.

You need a Dutch bank account for e.g.:

• Automatic monthly payments for your tuition fee or rent 
• A Dutch mobile phone subscription with monthly direct debit
• Receiving a refund of your immigration deposit (proof of financial means) for non-EU students

Already have a euro account?
If you are an EU citizen with a euro bank account, you may not need to open a Dutch bank account. Thanks to SEPA, Dutch companies can collect payments from eligible European bank accounts. Check with your own bank for more information.

Choosing a bank

You can open a student bank account with a traditional or online bank of your choice. Banks offer different packages, fees and conditions. Please note that some banks only accept applications from certain nationalities.

Traditional banks

Traditional banks have physical branches where you can get personal support, as well as banking apps for managing your finances online. Most student accounts are free of charge. Opening an account can take up to two weeks. Requirements vary by bank, but you will generally need the following documents:

• A valid passport or ID
• BSN (social security number). You will receive this after your registration with the municipality. A Tax Identification Number from your home country may be a substitute.
• Proof of enrolment from the AUAS
• Proof of address in the Netherlands (your rental contract)
• An original extract from the Personal Records Database (BRP)

Examples of traditional Dutch banks are listed below. This is not a complete overview, and some banks may not offer information in English:

Online banks

Also known as mobile or neobanks, these banks offer most services digitally. Opening an account is usually quick and requires fewer documents. Basic accounts are often free, but fees may apply for extra services, upgraded cards or cash transactions. Online banks can also be convenient for travelling and using foreign currencies.

Requirements vary, but you may need:

• A valid ID (some EU citizens can use a national ID card or driving license)
• Proof of residence, such as a BSN or residence permit (for non-EU students)
• An online payment to activate your account.

Examples of online banks are listed below. This is not a complete overview: