A Dutch bank account is non-negotiable. Your employer needs a Dutch IBAN to pay you, your landlord needs it for rent, and most Dutch online services run on iDEAL — a payment system that only works with a Dutch bank account. Here's how to get one, and which bank makes most sense for your situation.
You might wonder if your UK, German, or Indian bank account will do. It won't — at least not for long. The Netherlands runs on iDEAL, a payment system that connects directly to Dutch bank accounts. It's used for online shopping, rent payments, government fees, and more. Without a Dutch account you'll constantly hit a wall.
Employers and landlords also typically require a Dutch IBAN (starting with NL). Some will accept a foreign EU IBAN, but it's often a hassle and raises questions.
Almost all Dutch banks require:
This means you need your BSN before you can open most accounts. Sort your gemeente registration first — the bank account follows.
Bunq is a Dutch digital bank and the easiest option for most expats. The app is English-first, the signup process is fully online, and you can have an account in under an hour once you have your BSN and ID ready.
ING is the biggest bank in the Netherlands and has invested in English-language services. You can open an account online or in-branch, and the app is available in English.
ABN AMRO has an Expat Center specifically designed for internationals, with English-speaking staff and a streamlined onboarding process. You can make an appointment at their expat desks in Amsterdam and other major cities.
Rabobank is a cooperative bank with a strong reputation in the Netherlands. Less expat-focused than ABN AMRO, but solid and reliable. English app available.
Revolut and Wise are popular among expats for good reason — great exchange rates, easy international transfers, and no-fuss setup. But they're not a replacement for a Dutch bank account:
Use Revolut or Wise alongside your Dutch account for international transfers — not instead of it.
A simple guide:
Many expats open a Bunq account immediately to get an IBAN for their employer, then open an ING or ABN AMRO account later for day-to-day use. There's no rule against having multiple accounts.
Can I open an account before I have a BSN?
Most banks require a BSN. ABN AMRO's Expat Center sometimes has flexibility for new arrivals — worth asking. In practice, get your BSN first; it takes 1–2 weeks and unblocks everything else.
My employer wants to pay me before I have a Dutch account. What do I do?
Ask HR to delay your first payroll run, or ask if they can pay to a foreign IBAN temporarily. Most large international employers have dealt with this before.
Do I need a Dutch phone number to open an account?
Not always — Bunq and ING both accept international numbers. Check the specific requirements when you apply.
Is there a minimum balance?
No minimum balance is required at any of the major Dutch banks. Some accounts have monthly fees; others (like ING's basic account) are free.
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