Which bank account can I open fastest as a new arrival?

Bunq opens a current account fully online in under 10 minutes. You need your BSN and a valid ID. No Dutch address history required. It is the most expat-friendly option for speed.

Do I need a Dutch bank account?

Yes, practically speaking. Dutch employers pay salaries to Dutch IBANs. Landlords require a Dutch IBAN for rent payments and deposits. Without one, everyday life in the Netherlands is very difficult.

Can I use Wise or Revolut instead of a Dutch bank?

Wise and Revolut give you a European IBAN which some employers and landlords accept. However, many Dutch organisations specifically require a Dutch NL IBAN. Open a Dutch account as your primary account and use Wise/Revolut for international transfers.

Does ING offer English-language banking?

ING's app and online banking are available in English. Their branch staff typically speak English. For a traditional bank, ING is the most expat-friendly option.

How much does a Dutch bank account cost?

Bunq's basic account costs €2.99/month. ING's basic account (Oranje Rekening) costs €1.80/month. ABN AMRO starts at €2.20/month. Revolut and Wise have free tiers with limits.

Can I open a bank account before I have a BSN?

Some banks (notably Bunq) allow you to open an account and add your BSN within 90 days. Traditional banks (ING, ABN AMRO, Rabobank) require your BSN upfront.

Best Bank Accounts for Expats in the Netherlands (2025)

Getting a Dutch bank account is one of the first things to sort after arrival — you need a Dutch IBAN to receive salary, pay rent, and set up most Dutch services. The good news: Bunq opens fully online in minutes, even for brand new arrivals with a BSN. This guide compares the main options and tells you which to choose based on your situation.

Why you need a Dutch bank account

Your employer will require a Dutch IBAN to pay your salary. Your landlord will require a Dutch IBAN for rent and deposits. Most Dutch direct debits (health insurance, utilities, subscriptions) only work with a Dutch account. International accounts like Wise or Revolut technically have European IBANs, but many Dutch institutions specifically require a Dutch NL IBAN — so open a proper Dutch account.

The options compared

Bunq — Best for new arrivals

Who it's for: Anyone who wants a Dutch account immediately after getting their BSN.

Bunq opens fully online with no branch visit, no waiting period, and no Dutch credit history required. The app is excellent and available in English. You get a Dutch IBAN (NL), a Mastercard debit card, and access to features like shared accounts and automatic savings.

Monthly cost: €2.99 (Easy Money plan) or €9.99 (Easy Green)
Opens in: 10 minutes online
Requires: BSN + valid passport/ID
English support: Yes
International transfers: Competitive rates

ING — Best traditional bank

Who it's for: Those who prefer a large established bank with branches.

ING is the largest bank in the Netherlands and the most used by expats among traditional banks. Their app, online banking, and most branch staff are available in English. Opening requires a BSN and takes a few days via their online process.

Monthly cost: €1.80 (basic current account)
Opens in: 3–5 days via online application
Requires: BSN + valid ID
English support: Yes (app and website)

ABN AMRO — For those with complex needs

Who it's for: Expats with mortgages, investments, or business banking needs.

ABN AMRO has strong private banking and investment services. For basic current accounts they are similar to ING, but they have more dedicated expat banking advisors and English materials. Opening requires a branch visit.

Monthly cost: From €2.20
Opens in: 1–2 weeks (branch appointment required)
Requires: BSN + valid ID + Dutch address

Wise — Best for international transfers

Who it's for: Anyone sending money home regularly or earning in multiple currencies.

Wise is not a Dutch bank — it's a UK-based fintech with a European IBAN. Do not use it as your primary Dutch account. Use it alongside your Dutch account for international transfers: rates are far better than traditional banks and often better than Bunq for large amounts.

Recommendation by situation

| Situation | Recommended | |---|---| | Just arrived, need an account now | Bunq | | Prefer a traditional bank | ING | | Sending money home regularly | Wise (secondary account) | | Business or investment needs | ABN AMRO | | Freelancer with multi-currency income | Bunq + Wise |