Bank accounts in the Netherlands: What internationals need to know

Choosing a bank account in the Netherlands can be hard to find the perfect fit that suits your lifestyle as an international.

Depending on what matters most to you — be it investment options, physical branches, or an easy-to-use app — some Dutch bank accounts may be a better fit than others. 

So, let’s talk about the best banks in the Netherlands.

Do you need a Dutch bank account in the Netherlands?

Whether or not you need a Dutch bank account in the Netherlands depends on your situation. 

If you’re from another EU country, you might not need one at all. Thanks to EU law, Dutch businesses, employers, and landlords must accept IBANs from any EU member state.

However, it is good to know that ​​Visa Debit and Debit Mastercard are not accepted everywhere in the Netherlands. Besides that, having a Dutch bank account comes with plenty of perks. 

Not only can you rest assured that your cards won’t be rejected, but you’ll also gain access to local payment methods like Tikkie and iDEAL, which make everyday transactions a breeze. 

Plus, if you opt for a traditional bank, you’ll have the convenience of nearby bank branches and in-person customer support, providing you with a sense of security and ease.

For third-country nationals, i.e. anyone who is not from the European Union, getting a Dutch bank account when living in the Netherlands is practically indispensable. 

You’ll need it for everything from paying your rent and health insurance to getting your salary paid out.

Types of bank accounts in the Netherlands

So, you’ve decided to open a bank account in the Netherlands — but what types of Dutch bank accounts are there? 

The best banks in the Netherlands

Know what bank account you want to open in the Netherlands? Then it’s time to compare the best Dutch banks for internationals.

---

---

---

---

---

---

---

---

Smaller banks in the Netherlands

Other, smaller banks in the Netherlands include:

• Amanah Group Holdings
• Anadolubank Nederland N.V.
• Bank Mendes Gans (cash management)
• Bank Nederlandse Gemeenten (financing for (semi-)publicly owned organisations)
• BinckBank (electronic trading platform)
• Credit Europe Bank
• Demir Halk Bank (commercial bank)
• Friesland Bank (retail bank)
• GarantiBank International NV
• GE Artesia Bank
• Kempen & Co (merchant bank)
• Knab
• Nederlandse Waterschapsbank (financing for (semi-)publicly owned organisations)
• Netherlands Development Finance Company (development bank)
• NIBC Bank (commercial bank)
• Regiobank
• Triodos Bank
• Van Lanschot Kempen (private bank)
• Yapi Kredi Bank Nederland N.V.

How to open a Dutch bank account

When opening bank accounts in the Netherlands, the process will look different depending on whether you already have a Burgerservicenummer (Dutch social security number, known as BSN).

Opening a bank account in the Netherlands

Opening a bank account in the Netherlands is a straightforward process, especially if you’re already a resident with the necessary documents. 

To open an account with a Dutch bank, you’ll need the following:

• Proof of identity (a passport, ID card, or residence permit)
• Proof of address in the Netherlands (such as a rental contract or utility bill)
• Your BSN

Most Dutch banks allow you to complete the process online or at a physical branch of the bank, where you’ll fill out an application, and provide your documents.

Once that’s done, you’ll receive your debit card and account details in the mail shortly after.

Opening a bank account in the Netherlands without a BSN

Don’t have your BSN yet? No problem. While many banks require a BSN when signing up, opening a bank account without one is still possible. 

With some banks, you can open your current account while you’re still waiting to get your BSN, provided that you communicate it to the bank once you have it. 

Usually, you get a deadline of 90 days to do so.

Banks that let you open an account without a BSN in the Netherlands are:

• bunq
• Revolut
• ABN Amro
• Openbank
• N25

Opening a bank account from outside the Netherlands

​​You can open a Dutch bank account from outside the Netherlands, but it depends on the bank and your residency status. This is usually only possible if you’re a resident of another EU country.

Some traditional Dutch banks allow non-residents, particularly EU citizens, to open accounts remotely. However, you’ll generally need a Dutch address and official documentation, such as proof of identity and income. The process can also sometimes require a visit to a Dutch branch to complete verification.

Opening an account with a digital bank like bunq or Revolut is much easier. These banks cater to EU residents and offer simpler sign-ups without the need for a Dutch address. Instead, you can use your current address from another European country. 

Once you move to the Netherlands, you can typically update your address in the app and obtain a Dutch IBAN.

What to do if you are refused a bank account in the Netherlands

Banks in the Netherlands are not obliged to grant you an account, and applicants can be refused on various grounds.

If you’re refused a bank account in the Netherlands, first of all, don’t worry. You’ll likely get this sorted out without any difficulties. 

However, it is important to understand why you’ve been refused an account and what your next steps are.

1. Request an explanation: Banks in the Netherlands are required to provide a reason for denying your application. Common reasons include things such as incomplete documentation, not meeting residency or identification requirements, or issues related to your financial history. They cannot discriminate based on ethnicity, sexuality, or religion.
2. Review your documents: Double-check that all the paperwork you provided, such as proof of identity, address, and your BSN (if required), are valid and up-to-date.
3. Explore other banks: If one bank refuses your application, it doesn’t mean that another will, too. Consider applying with different or online-only banks, which may have more flexible requirements.
4. (If applicable) File a complaint: If you believe your refusal was unfair or without a valid reason, you can file a complaint directly with the bank. Contact the Klachteninstituut Financiële Dienstverlening, the Dutch financial services complaints tribunal, if the issue remains unresolved.

How much do bank accounts in the Netherlands cost?

When researching bank accounts in the Netherlands, you’ll find that their price can greatly vary depending on the bank and the type of account.

• A standard current account can range in price from anywhere between €0 and €5 per month, while more premium accounts with extra benefits usually range from €10 to €15 monthly.
• Children’s accounts are often free or come at a reduced fee.
• Business accounts generally have higher costs due to additional services like invoicing and accounting tools, ranging from €10 to €20 per month.

Let’s look at the price of standard current accounts across the most popular banks in the Netherlands.

Account name	Monthly costs
Openbank Open Betaalrekening	€0.00
Revolut Standard Account	€0.00
N26 Standard Account	€0.00
Rabo DirectPakket	€3.20
ABN AMRO Basispakket	€3.25
SNS Basis	€3.45
ING OranjePakket	€3.65
bunq Easy Bank	€3.99

What are we paying for?

Great question. With the monthly (or yearly) fees you pay to your bank, you cover the costs of maintaining the account, keeping your money safe, and your daily banking services.

For example, you’re paying for your debit card and its everyday transactions, access to online and mobile banking, as well as customer support, secure ATM withdrawals, and advanced security measures to protect your money. 

Additionally, the fee supports ongoing account maintenance, such as transaction processing and data updates. 

What is an IBAN on my Dutch bank account?

IBAN stands for International Bank Account Number. It’s a unique identifier for your bank account that ensures international and domestic payments are processed correctly and securely. 

Each IBAN is globally recognised, meaning banks across different countries can quickly and accurately route payments to the correct accounts.

Although IBANs were originally designed for payments within the Eurozone, they have since expanded and are now used in over 70 countries worldwide. 

This system helps standardise international banking, making cross-border transactions smoother and reducing errors.

In the Netherlands, your IBAN consists of several components: a two-letter country code (NL for the Netherlands), a two-digit check number to validate the IBAN, your bank’s unique code, and your personal account number. 

The result is a long but essential sequence that ensures your payments, whether local or international, arrive safely at their destination.

Payment methods in the Netherlands

Once you’ve picked your bank, opened an account and received your Dutch debit card, you’re all set to spend some money. Here’s all you should know about it. 

Using a debit card in the Netherlands

If you’re using a debit card in the Netherlands, the process should be smooth and easy. However, there may be some hurdles if you intend to use a foreign debit card. 

From a Dutch bank 

Using a debit card from a Dutch bank in the Netherlands is, as you would guess, no problem at all. 

Dutch debit cards from local banks are widely accepted across the Netherlands, including in supermarkets, small shops, and local businesses. If a place accepts card payments, chances are your Dutch debit card will work without any issues.

From your international bank

Trying to use your international bank card in the Netherlands? You might run into some issues.

Not only could you face extra fees, such as foreign transaction charges or currency conversion costs, but your card might not even be accepted. This is especially true if you have a Visa, MasterCard, or American Express debit card, as these aren’t universally accepted in the Netherlands, particularly in smaller shops and local businesses.

Most debit card payments in the Netherlands are processed through the Maestro or V-Pay networks, the preferred systems for transactions in the Netherlands. 

So, if your card doesn’t support these networks (and many international cards don’t), you may find yourself unable to make purchases, even in places that do accept cards.

The Netherlands and credit cards

If you’ve ever tried to use your credit card in the Netherlands, you may know that credit cards and the Netherlands also have quite a tricky relationship. 

The reason for this mostly comes down to Dutch frugality: while debit card payments come with a low flat rate, shop owners in the Netherlands are charged a certain percentage on each credit card transaction.

On top of that, credit card payments can take up to a week to transfer to the merchant’s account, while debit transitions are much quicker.

Using your digital wallet in the Netherlands

A digital wallet is an app or software that securely stores your credit card, debit card, and other payment information on your smartphone, smartwatch, or computer. You might know this as Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, or Garmin Pay. 

This system allows you to make contactless payments by tapping your device at a card reader, without needing a physical card. 

Digital wallets are widely accepted throughout the Netherlands, whether you’re using public transport, shopping at popular retail chains, dining at restaurants, or picking up groceries. Most Dutch banks also make it easy to link your bank card to a digital wallet through their mobile banking apps, allowing for seamless payments without a card.

One of the main advantages of using a digital wallet in the Netherlands is the added layer of security. 

Most transactions require biometric authentication, such as Face ID or fingerprint, ensuring your details remain safe. Plus, since your card details are encrypted, there’s less risk of fraud.

However, although digital wallets are becoming more universal across the country, carrying a physical card as a backup is always wise.

Why? Because smaller towns or local markets might not have the most up-to-date card readers, and in these places, contactless payments might not be available. And, of course, your phone could die at any moment.

Online payments in the Netherlands 

Love online shopping? You’ll be glad to know that online payments in the Netherlands are easy and secure, with several popular options available for both residents and internationals.

The most widely used method is iDEAL, a direct online banking system connected to nearly all Dutch banks. When making a purchase, iDEAL lets you pay directly from your bank account via your phone or browser.

At checkout, simply select iDEAL, choose your bank, log into your online banking portal, and approve the transaction — no need for card details or extra fees.

In addition to iDEAL, platforms like PayPal, Klarna, and credit cards are commonly accepted on most websites. 

Direct debits (automatische incasso) in the Netherlands

Payments for things like subscription services, utilities and insurance premiums are generally done through automatische incasso (direct debit) in the Netherlands.

With this payment method in the Netherlands, you give permission to a company, service provider, or organisation to automatically withdraw a specified amount from your Dutch bank account. 

To authorise the merchant to do so, you need to sign a mandate (machtiging) allowing the company to withdraw funds. You can revoke this authorisation at any time by contacting the company or your bank.

Once you’ve authorised the payment, it happens automatically at regular intervals — monthly, quarterly, or annually — without needing to approve each transaction manually. 

Can I pay with cash in the Netherlands?

You can pay with cash (euros) in the Netherlands, but its use is becoming increasingly less common, especially in urban areas and with larger transactions.

Many small shops, cafes, and local markets still accept cash, although some may prefer card payments or digital methods. Most supermarkets also still accept cash payments; however, you’ll likely be unable to check out using the self-scan tills.

In many food places, especially in big cities like Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Rotterdam, you’ll see a sign that says “Alleen pinnen”. This means that these places only allow card payments. 

How to withdraw, send, and request money with a Dutch bank account

WIthdrawing, sending, and requesting money with your Dutch bank account is easy and hassle-free.

Withdrawing money from a Dutch bank account

Withdrawing cash from a Dutch bank account is straightforward. You can use an ATM (geldautomaat) from your bank or any networked ATM across the Netherlands. 

At some places in the Netherlands, you can find whole ATM “stores”, where you can withdraw and deposit money.

Simply insert your debit card, enter your PIN, and follow the prompts to withdraw the desired amount.

Sending money from one bank account to another

Transferring money between Dutch bank accounts is done online, and there are two popular methods of doing this: using payment requests or SEPA transfers.

Tikkie and other payment requests

Tikkie is a popular app in the Netherlands for requesting and sending money. You generate a payment link through the Tikkie app and send it to the person who needs to pay you. They can then pay via a simple link directing them to their banking app. 

This is especially useful for splitting bills or collecting small amounts from friends. 

Other apps like PayPal and traditional bank services also offer similar capabilities for sending and receiving payment requests.

SEPA transfers for bank transfers within Europe 

SEPA (Single Euro Payments Area) transfers allow for seamless and standardised bank transfers across Europe in euros. 

To make a SEPA transfer, you’ll need the recipient’s name and IBAN. Sometimes your bank might also ask for their BIC (Bank Identifier Code). 

SEPA transfers are usually processed within one business day at most, making them a convenient option for sending money across European countries.

Do they use checks in the Netherlands?

The Netherlands does not use checks. Well, not anymore.

ING, the last Dutch bank to cash checks stopped doing so in 2021, meaning checks are no longer used in the Netherlands.

International money transfers in the Netherlands

For international money transfers outside of the SEPA zone, banks offer various options, including wire transfers and services like Western Union. 

Online platforms such as Wise, CurrencyFair, and PayPal can also facilitate international transfers, often with lower fees and competitive exchange rates. 

Ensure you have the recipient’s banking details and understand any associated fees or exchange rates before making a transfer.

Switching banks or closing a bank account in the Netherlands

Switching banks or closing a bank account in the Netherlands is a fairly straightforward process, but it’s important to follow a few key steps to ensure everything goes smoothly:

1. Choose a new bank: If you’re switching bank accounts, you should research different banks to find one that best suits your needs. Consider factors like fees, services, and accessibility.
2. Open a new account: Before closing your old account, open a new one with your chosen bank. You’ll need to provide identification and proof of address. Many banks in the Netherlands offer online account opening.
3. Update automatic payments: Transfer any automatic payments or direct debits from your old account to your new one. This includes bills, subscriptions, and salary deposits. Make sure to do this well in advance to avoid any missed payments.
4. Notify your old bank: Inform your old bank that you want to close your account. They may require a written request or a visit to a branch. Some banks may also have online forms for this purpose.
5. Transfer remaining funds: Move any remaining funds from your old account to your new one.
6. Close the old account: Once you’ve transferred all your transactions and funds, you can close your old account. This might involve returning any debit cards or checks associated with the account.

Alternatively, you can use the Dutch Overstapservice for banks, a switch service designed to help individuals and businesses switch from one Dutch bank to another.

The service automatically forwards payments and direct debits from your old account to your new one for a period of 13 months, ensuring that you don’t miss any important transactions during the transition.

The switch service is free and applies only to Dutch bank accounts. It provides a buffer period so you don’t have to rush through notifying all parties immediately, making switching banks in the Netherlands much easier.

Once the 13 months are up and you’re certain that you’ve transferred all your payments to your new account, you can go ahead and cancel the old one. 

---

Choosing the best bank in the Netherlands depends on your needs — whether you value customer service, sustainability, or the best English-language app. 

With the right Dutch bank for your lifestyle, banking in the Netherlands is a breeze.

Which Dutch bank is your favourite? Leave a comment below.