Do I need to open a Dutch bank account?

Do you have a bank account in a country that is not a SEPA* member?

If so, you are strongly advised to open a Dutch bank account. This is particularly important if you have been awarded a scholarship by Leiden University or to receive other payments in the Netherlands. Many organisations require a Dutch bank account number if you want to become a member or request a card, e.g. public transport organisations; or taking a trip down to the supermarket where you can “pin” for your groceries or order take out online.

Do you have a bank account in a country that is a SEPA* member?

A Dutch bank account is not essential but can be very handy. Many organisations require a Dutch bank account number if you want to become a member or request a card, e.g. public transport organisations; or taking a trip down to the supermarket where you can “pin” for your groceries or order take out online.

*SEPA: Single Euro Payments Area. Member countries include all EEA member states plus Monaco and Switzerland. 

How to open a bank account

Before you go to open your bank account, you need to choose which bank suits your needs or principles. You should also take into account that most banks charge a yearly fee for having an account with them. Online banks are especially convenient if your stay is less than 90 days, while standard banks with a branch office are more convenient if you stay in the Netherlands for a longer period of time.

With an online bank

By online bank we mean a bank that does not have physical branch offices that you can visit. All business is conducted online. You can open a bank account with N26, Wise International or Revolut online bank. As there is no need to attend an appointment, you can open an account in a few minutes. You also do not need to have a Dutch BSN number to open an account.

With a standard bank 

By standard bank we mean a bank that has physical branch offices that you can visit. There are several standard banks in the Netherlands that offer bank accounts: Rabobank, ING, ABN Amro, ASN bank and SNS bank.