Can I open a bank account in the Netherlands as a non-resident?
It is possible for you to open a bank account in the Netherlands as a non-resident. Some of the banks offer special "international" accounts in that situation. Another option is to use your local financial institution that has a correspondent bank in the Netherlands, or an international branch there. That speeds up the process and allows you to get an account before setting your foot in the country. You can count on your local office to support you through the process. We are aware that currently ING and Bunq banks offer special international accounts.
FAQs
1- Can a foreigner open a bank account?
Yes, as a foreigner or non-resident, you may open a bank account in the Netherlands as mentioned above. Can you open a Dutch bank account online as a foreigner? Still, the answer is yes as most Dutch banks allow this. As an expat, you have two options: (1) open an account by personally visiting a branch or (2) open an account online through the bank’s website. It may be a great idea for you to choose a Dutch bank with international operations, as well as supports the English language.
As with opening bank accounts in person, opening a Dutch bank account online also requires you to submit a BSN. If you don’t have a BSN, another way to get it is by getting your RNI or Registratie Niet Ingezetenen. You can get your RNI when you register as a non-resident in the Netherlands. Obtaining this number will also allow you to automatically obtain your BSN. You can get this number only if you have no plans of spending over four months in the country, and you can get this number in person.
But if you’re opening a Dutch bank account from abroad, you can’t do so via online as most Dutch banks don’t allow online opening of overseas accounts. You need to go to a branch of the Dutch bank in your home country (if there’s any). Or you may go to a bank with arrangements as a correspondent bank with a Dutch bank or to an international bank with Dutch operations.
Another alternative would be to open a digital or mobile bank account.
2- How long does it take to open a Dutch bank account?
Foreigners can open mobile-only accounts, such as B2BPay, in a matter of minutes by simple using their mobile phones. Simply furnish your mobile number, physical address which doesn’t necessarily have to be in the Netherlands, and your email address.
For in-person application, you can walk away with a Dutch bank account in as fast as 30 minutes with some banks provided you have the necessary requirements ready. If you don’t have a BSN and a Dutch cell phone or prepaid number, then it could take five working days to process your Dutch bank account.
