Open a Bank Account Online in the Netherlands || Compare Dutch Banks (2024)

Banking in the Netherlands

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If you are shifting to the Netherlands, you need to have a Dutch bank account to manage your finances. It will also help you in a lot of other administration purposes like electricity, phone line, paying gas, or just want to take a trip to grocery store.

How to find the best bank if you don’t speak Dutch? You can right-click anywhere on the page of the provider with your mouse (if you are using Google Chrome). A dropdown menu willappear with the text: “translate this page to English”. This will make it easier for you to make the right choice.

We have listed below the criteria by which we have listed a top 5 of the best banks in the Netherlands.

Open a Bank Account Online in the Netherlands || Compare Dutch Banks (1)

      English speaking customer service
      Free creditcard
      Clear Savings account
      Flexible contracts
      Clear contracts (no hidden costs)
      Fair credit rate
      Low withdrawal fees
    Company
    Pro’s /Con’s
    Rating
    #1 -The best Dutch bank
    Open a Bank Account Online in the Netherlands || Compare Dutch Banks (2)
    ★★★★★
    Rating

    A bank made for expats and newcomers – low withdrawel fees, purely online bank –excellent conditions and a great app!

    A bank made for expats and newcomers – low withdrawel fees, purely online bank –excellent conditions and a great app!

        Free creditcard
        Low Fees
        English website
        No withdrawal fees
        English speaking customer service
        No brick and mortar bank

      8.7

      Visit n26.nl
      #2

      Open a Bank Account Online in the Netherlands || Compare Dutch Banks (3)
      ★★★★☆
      Rating

      New player on the market. Sustainabiliy is central in their approach to banking. Fast growing with an excellent app and on boarding process for expats and newcomers

      New player on the market. Sustainabiliy is central in their approach to banking. Fast growing with an excellent app and on boarding process for expats and newcomers

          Neo bank (low-costs)
          Emphasis on sustainability
          Low Fees
          English website
          No withdrawal fees
          No brick and mortar bank

        8.5

        Visit Bunq.nl
        #3

        Open a Bank Account Online in the Netherlands || Compare Dutch Banks (4)
        ★★★★★
        Rating

        ABN Amro is a top 3 bank from the Netherlands – lots of brick and mortar offices throughout the Netherlands – relatively low fees

        ABN Amro is a top 3 bank from the Netherlands – lots of brick and mortar offices throughout the Netherlands – relatively low fees

            English website
            Brick and mortar bank
            Low Fees
            Free creditcard
            English speaking customer service
            Too big to fail

          8.4

          Visit ABN AMRO.nl
          #4

          Open a Bank Account Online in the Netherlands || Compare Dutch Banks (5)
          ★★★★★
          Rating

          One of the largest banks in the Netherlands – used by most Dutch citizens – great online service and banking app is rated one of the best in the Netherlands

          One of the largest banks in the Netherlands – used by most Dutch citizens – great online service and banking app is rated one of the best in the Netherlands

              Free creditcard
              No withdrawal fees
              English speaking customer service
              Brick and mortar bank
              Low Fees
              No English website

            8.6

            Visit ING.nl
            #5

            Open a Bank Account Online in the Netherlands || Compare Dutch Banks (6)
            ★★★★★
            Rating

            Large bank in the Netherland used by a lot of people in the countryside – great online experience and apps: almost everything can be arranged online

            Large bank in the Netherland used by a lot of people in the countryside – great online experience and apps: almost everything can be arranged online

                Large Dutch bank
                No withdrawal fees
                Free creditcard
                English speaking customer service
                Brick and mortar bank
                Low Fees
                No English website

              8.3

              Visit Rabobank.nl

              If you don’t speak Dutch yet..

              Finding a Dutch website that has an English version can be quite difficult. You can translate a Dutch page in your browser (only works with Google Chrome on desktop) by right clicking on the page – you will see a dropdown and click “Translate this page to English”. This will make it easier for you to make the right decision.

              While opening a bank account in some countries could not be as straight forward, getting a Dutch account is quite handy. Most Dutch banks offer two types of account:

              • Current account
              • Saving account

              The banks allow you to open an account either by visiting a branch in-person or online through their website. The documents required are:

              • Valid identity proof (residence permit, if applicable)
              • Proof of address (a rental contract, a utility bill are usually accepted)
              • Evidence of income
              • They may also check credit rating, and you will receive a bank card (usually a debit card) once the account has been opened.

              Apart from the current and saving account, they also offer you to open a business account, joint account, as well as a bank account for your children.

              The saving accounts starts from long-term deposit accounts to instant access savers, which can be used to save for things such as vacations or retirement. However, each bank offers different savings packages.

              Also, opening a business account is quite easy with the same process as for opening a private account. Further, best banks in the Netherlands also provide loans and considered as a common method of lending money. However, there are a number of credit agencies, or you can always use credit cards if the amount you need is not so big.

              There are so many websites that you can use to assess your options to see a Dutch bank account comparison when taking out a loan in the Netherlands. Otherwise, you can simply walk into your Dutch bank and speak with an advisor.

              However, one of the most popular reasons why most expats prefer current account is because it gives instant access to your money, credit/debit card options, internet and mobile banking options and more. Banks offer different current accounts like standard account, student account, young person’s account, etc.

              Most used Banks in the Netherlands

              Open a Bank Account Online in the Netherlands || Compare Dutch Banks (7)Open a Bank Account Online in the Netherlands || Compare Dutch Banks (8)Open a Bank Account Online in the Netherlands || Compare Dutch Banks (9)Open a Bank Account Online in the Netherlands || Compare Dutch Banks (10)

              How to open an Dutch bank account

              You can change your Dutch bank account or switch to another account at any time. The process for changing it might differ from bank to bank. With some banks, perhaps, you need to close the account online, whereas others may require you to visit a branch in-person and fill out a form.

              If you have decided to close a bank account and switch to another one in the Netherlands, make sure to:

              • Provide the bank with essential information like your passport or Valid ID-card, address proof (rental contract, utility bill, and official government document).
              • Your BSN (Citizen Service Number) obtained at the municipal office, etc.
              • Have some confirmation in writing, either on a letter or in a mail to ensure that the account is closed officially. This will avoid any extra charges gathering on an unsupervised account.
              • Abandon your standing orders or direct debits on the account, or make them transferred to your new account.
              • Inform your employer and anyone who is making regular payments to you that you are no longer using this account.

              Before switching to another bank, compare plans and services that help you in opting for the best. A little research and consulting your friends and colleagues can help you get the best one.

              Advantages of online banking in the Netherlands

              The coronavirus pandemic has impacted the online banking platforms of the Netherlands, but online banking in the Netherlands is not something new. Traditional banking methods have not been appealing in the past year. With that in mind, several banking customers are benefitting from online banking solutions since the surge of the coronavirus. Let us look at the benefits of online banking.

              • Convenient:The freedom to access banks wherever and whenever you want to is one of the primary benefits of online baking. With our mobile phones or computer, we can easily access our bank. It allows 24/7 banking access, and you can perform any bank tasks.
              • Security:In online banking, there are several multi-factor authentications to the online bank account. Most applications will allow you to use fingerprint authentication to log in to your account. Without the MPIN, no one can access the account unless you tell them the pin.

              FAQ about Banks in the Netherlands

              aWhich bank to choose in the Netherlands?

              Visit Bunq.nl is the best app-based bank which offers mobile and internet banking throughout Europe. Each Bunq bank account provides you with a free Mastercard debit card, which is accepted globally. You can use the app to lock or unlock your card, set daily spending limits, and reset your PIN anywhere across the world at any time.

              The premium account enables you to have fee-free withdrawals worldwide. Any transaction on the card notifies you as push notifications on the app. The best part is its support is available in several languages.

              aWhat banks are available in the Netherlands?

              There are more than 11 banks in the Netherlands. We have outlined some of the most important ones:

              Visit Bunq.nl: The Bunq app offers every day free bank accounts to save, spend or keep track of your money and all that under one app. It also offers free Mastercard debit card, which is accepted worldwide. It has some great features like 3D secure for an extra layer of security. You can receive push notifications to stay updated, secured fingerprint login, stress-free bank transfers, tagging your transactions and lot more.

              ABN AMRO: It is again one of the most preferred banks, especially by expats, students, athletes and entertainers. With this bank, you can easily apply for loans and make investments. Making payments is so efficient using the internet and mobile banking and credit cards. ABN AMRO has specialized staff with years of experience helping expats in the country. The advisers can help you in your financial matters.

              ING: ING is ranked as a leader in the banking industry and have an ‘A’ rating in the MSCI’s ratings universe. Customer experience is what differentiates them, as they are constantly improving it. It offers job opportunities to new talents through an international talent program and empowers people to stay a step ahead in life.

              aHow to get a Dutch bank account?

              Before you visit a bank to open an account, you need to pick which bank suits your requirements or principles. You should also remember that banks might charge a yearly fee for having an account with them. Once you have chosen your bank, you must check out all the details of the account to see whether they meet your needs.

              Documents needed for a Dutch bank account are as follows:

              • Your BSN number (Citizen service number)
              • A valid proof of ID (identity card or passport as drivers license might not be acceptable)
              • Proof of address (electricity bill or a rental contract)
              • Residential permit if you come from outside of Europe
              • Once the details have been processed, you will need to simply wait until your new “pinpas” is received by you or your account is approved.
              aHow to find the best bank for you?

              While finding the best bank in Netherland, you have to consider certain essential things. And, to get the best, there are some of the crucial factors that help you decide are- easy access to your account, service, customer satisfaction and withdrawal costs.

              Get ready to have personalised banking with N26 that allows you to pick your contactless Mastercard from five attractive colours –Sand, Ocean, Rhubarb, Slate and Aqua. The bank will give you an extensive package of travel insurance, lifestyle and free foreign currency ATM withdrawals.

              Travel light and cherish the freedom of knowing you are covered to get up and go, thankfully with a premium bank account that provides a package of mobility and travel insurance. Forget about foreign transaction fees and withdraw your cash for free in a particular currency from ATMs across the world. Pay with your N26 Mastercard online with zero fees.

              Open a Bank Account Online in the Netherlands || Compare Dutch Banks (2024)

              FAQs

              Can I have a Dutch bank account without living in the Netherlands? ›

              Opening a bank account in the Netherlands from abroad

              You can open up a non-resident or international account with some Dutch banks. This gives you the option of opening up and operating the account from outside the country. Different banks have different offers and procedures.

              Which bank is best for foreigners in the Netherlands? ›

              Both residents and non-residents can have Dutch bank accounts. As a resident, you need to choose the best bank that fits your needs, set up an appointment with them, and open a Dutch bank account. The best banks for foreigners in the Netherlands are Rabobank, ABN AMRO, and ING.

              Can I open a bank account in Netherlands from the US? ›

              Yes. However, most Dutch banks require customers to have a local address in the Netherlands or another supported European country. If you're not a resident yet, check out alternative providers like Wise and Revolut, which can help you open a euro account from the US.

              Which European country is the easiest to open a bank account? ›

              As you will soon see, Portugal is one of the easiest countries to open a bank account in for non-residents in the EU.

              What documents do I need to open a bank account in the Netherlands? ›

              Opening a bank account
              1. Proof of ID (passport or identity card)
              2. Official proof of address, such as a tenancy agreement.
              3. Citizen service number (burgerservicenummer, BSN)
              4. If you are from a country outside the EU, your residence permit or registration with the Foreign Police (Vreemdelingenpolitie)
              Aug 13, 2024

              How much money can you have in your bank account without being taxed in the Netherlands? ›

              Tax-free allowance

              Fortunately, you do not have to pay tax on all your assets, as there is an exemption. For the year 2023, the tax-free allowance is €57,000 (€114,000 applies to tax partners). The tax-free allowance will remain the same in 2024.

              How long does it take to open a bank account in the Netherlands? ›

              Traditional banks

              The process of opening an account may take up to two weeks to complete. Although it can differ slightly, depending on the bank you choose, you will generally need most of the following documents: A valid passport. BSN number (Social security number).

              Which Dutch bank is free? ›

              Are there any free banks in the Netherlands? Most banks in the Netherlands will charge you a small fee to have an account with them. Digital banks like bunq will usually give you an account for free, but charge you for your debit card, and for additional features.

              Does Bank of America operate in Netherlands? ›

              Branches for BANK OF AMERICA EUROPE DESIGNATED ACTIVITY COMPANY, AMSTERDAM BRANCH in Netherlands. Below you can find the local branches for BANK OF AMERICA EUROPE DESIGNATED ACTIVITY COMPANY, AMSTERDAM BRANCH in Netherlands.

              Can a US citizen open a bunq account? ›

              First things first - who can open a bunq account? We're active in many countries of the European Economic Area (EEA). All citizens of the EEA that are over 18 and live in countries we operate in can sign up for bunq. If you are not a European citizen but live in one of the countries we're active in, that also works!

              How long does it take to open an account with ABN AMRO? ›

              Opening a Dutch bank account online is done within less than 10 minutes. All you need is your mobile and your ID. You can prove your identity in the ABN AMRO app.

              Which international banks are in the Netherlands? ›

              Foreign banks
              • Amsterdam Trade Bank.
              • Argenta.
              • Commerzbank AG.
              • Deutsche Bank.
              • N26.
              • Revolut.
              • Royal Bank of Scotland (ceased Dutch operations in February 2015)
              • TransferWise.

              Which online bank account is best in Europe? ›

              Top 5 digital banks in Europe (2024)
              • Revolut - The versatile giant. Discover Revolut. Founded: 2015, London, United Kingdom. ...
              • N26 - The financial aesthete. Discover N26. Founded: 2013, Berlin, Germany. ...
              • Monese - Your financial nomad. Discover Monese. ...
              • Bunq - The Liberty Bank. Discover Bunq. ...
              • Hello bank! - The tech-savvy friend.
              Jan 18, 2024

              Can a US citizen open a European bank account? ›

              You'll usually be able to open a European bank account online as a non resident, if you select a service from an expat or international banking brand. In this case, the application process is designed for people not able to visit a branch in person.

              Which country has the best online banking system? ›

              Canada leads all countries in terms of its share of Internet users who access online banking sites each month at nearly 65%, with the Netherlands a close second at 61%.

              Can I keep my bank account if I move out of Netherlands? ›

              You may wish to keep your Dutch bank accounts open for a period of time after you leave the Netherlands. In principle, this should not be a problem for the major banks, especially if you wish to keep a spaarrekening (savings account) open with the bank, as long as you have notified them of your change of address.

              Can I open a bank account in Europe if I don't live there? ›

              There are a few different ways you can go about getting a European bank account as a non-resident. You might choose a traditional account from a regular bank based in one of the European countries, take e-residency to get your business set up in the EU, or consider a modern alternative such as the Wise Account.

              How do I register in the Netherlands without a house? ›

              In case you don't have a home address (yet), you can register under a correspondence address. This address is temporary and an administrative address only. For instance, the address of a family member or a colleague.

              Is it illegal to have an overseas bank account? ›

              Offshore accounts are legal, provided that you set them up correctly and use them legally. It's the exact same thing for domestic accounts. After all, you can't set up a business bank account in America, then use that business account for criminal activities and expect to keep it and the assets you store inside it.

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