Can I open a Dutch bank account without a BSN number?

Yes, with bunq (digital bank) you can open an account using just your passport and Dutch address. You add your BSN later in the app. Traditional banks (ING, ABN AMRO, Rabobank) generally require a BSN upfront. If you are starting work before getting your BSN, bunq is the fastest solution — account is active within minutes.

Which Dutch bank is best for English speakers?

bunq has the most complete English-language experience, with English app, English support, and English website. ABN AMRO and ING both have English customer service and English-language options in their apps. Rabobank is primarily Dutch-language. If you want a traditional bank with good English support, ABN AMRO or ING are the safest choices.

Are there free bank accounts in the Netherlands?

Most Dutch bank accounts have a small monthly fee (€2–5/month for traditional banks; bunq starts at ~€3/month). Some banks offer free accounts for specific groups: students, people under 27, or new customers for a limited period. Check the current offers at consumentenbond.nl for the most up-to-date comparison.

Opening a Dutch Bank Account 2026 — Guide for EU Workers | NLnest

Why You Need a Dutch Bank Account

Opening a Dutch bank account should be one of your first priorities after arriving in the Netherlands. Here's why it is essential:

Salary payments — almost all Dutch employers pay salaries by bank transfer to a Dutch IBAN; foreign IBANs often cause issues or delays
Rent payments — landlords expect rent via bank transfer (automatische incasso); many refuse cash or foreign accounts
Utilities and insurance — gas, electricity, internet, and health insurance all require direct debit from a Dutch account
iDEAL payments — the dominant Dutch online payment system is iDEAL, which requires a Dutch bank account; used by almost every Dutch webshop and service
Tikkie — the popular Dutch app for splitting bills requires a Dutch bank account
Tax refunds — the Belastingdienst (tax authority) pays refunds to Dutch bank accounts only

Major Dutch Banks

These are the main options for newcomers:

ING — the largest retail bank in the Netherlands; excellent app; English-language options; widely accepted
ABN AMRO — large bank, English-friendly customer service, good for expats, international transfers easy
Rabobank — strong presence in smaller cities and rural areas; cooperative model; solid app
Volksbank / SNS Bank — straightforward and affordable; less internationally focused
bunq — fully digital, English-first interface, no branch visits needed, fastest to open (same day); good for newcomers who need an account urgently; monthly fees from ~€3–18/month depending on plan
N26 / Revolut — European digital banks accepted in the Netherlands, but some Dutch services (iDEAL, certain direct debits) may not work with these; use as a supplement, not a primary account

Tip for newcomers: If you need an account before getting your BSN, bunq allows you to open an account with just a passport and an address. You add your BSN later. Traditional banks typically require a BSN upfront.

Documents Required

For traditional banks (ING, ABN AMRO, Rabobank):

BSN number — essential for most banks; allows them to report interest income to the tax authority
Valid passport or EU national ID card
Proof of Dutch address — BRP uittreksel (gemeente registration extract) or rental contract
Sometimes: employment contract or proof of income

For bunq:

Valid passport (selfie + scan for identity verification)
Dutch address
BSN (can be added later)
Email address and phone number

Step-by-Step: Opening at a Traditional Bank

Get your BSN first from the gemeente — this is the essential prerequisite
Go to the bank's website and start an online application, or call to book a branch appointment
Complete identity verification — either online (video call or in-app) or in person at a branch
Submit documents — BSN, passport, proof of address
Account activated within 3–5 business days
Debit card arrives by post within 5–7 business days
Set up the banking app and activate iDEAL for online payments

Step-by-Step: Opening at bunq (Fast Track)

Download the bunq app from the App Store or Google Play
Verify your identity — scan your passport and take a selfie within the app
Enter your Dutch address and phone number
Account activated within minutes — virtual card available immediately for online payments
Physical card arrives in 3–5 business days
Add your BSN in app settings once you have it
Note: bunq charges monthly fees (~€3 for Easy Money, ~€18 for Easy Green with more features)

Banking Tips for Newcomers

Get Tikkie — the most popular Dutch app for splitting restaurant bills, group purchases, and requesting money from friends; linked to your Dutch bank account
Set up iDEAL — link your bank account to iDEAL in your banking app; required for almost all Dutch online purchases
Card acceptance — Dutch stores now widely accept Visa and Mastercard debit cards; contactless payment is universal. Maestro cards are being phased out.
Cash — rarely needed; most places only accept card. Keep €20–50 for the occasional cash-only situation (some markets, smaller establishments).
30% ruling holders — if you qualify for the 30% tax ruling (for highly skilled migrants), inform your bank; this may affect your tax reporting status
Transfer fees — Dutch SEPA transfers within the EU are free; international transfers outside SEPA may have fees. Use Wise (formerly TransferWise) for non-EUR transfers.

Official Sources

Useful official links:

With your bank account sorted, you are ready to receive your Dutch salary. Find Dutch job vacancies on NLnest or create your free candidate profile and start your career in the Netherlands.

Opening a Dutch Bank Account: What You Need to Know