If you’ve just arrived in the Netherlands for work, one of the first practical steps to make life easier is sorting out your finances. While it’s not mandatory to open a Dutch bank account, it can save you a lot of time (and stress) when it comes to receiving your salary, paying bills, or dealing with official matters. Below, we explain why having a Dutch bank account is helpful, what your options are, and how to get started quickly.
Why open a Dutch bank account?
Some InAxtion employees use their bank accounts from home, and that’s fine. However, a Dutch account has three clear advantages:
- Faster payments – Salary corrections or urgent payments can be transferred within minutes between Dutch accounts, while international transfers (IBAN) can take 1–2 working days, depending on the bank.
- Easier dealings with Dutch authorities – Some government services, benefits, or housing applications may require a Dutch bank account for verification.
- Fewer paperwork headaches – If you plan to stay long term, having a local account makes things like mortgages or rental contracts simpler. It’s also easier for Dutch organizations to do business with a Dutch account.
What are your banking options?
From our experience dealing with hundreds of technical workers joining us from Poland, Romania, Estonia, and other EU countries, it’s often easier to open a bank account online.
Here are three popular online banks:
ABN Ambro Bank
ABN AMRO’s Basic Payment Package allows EU workers to open a Dutch bank account quickly via the app, including a debit card and online banking, for €3.70/month. A valid EU ID and Dutch address are required. Once registered, you have 120 days to upload their BSN for continued access.
ING
You can open an ING account even before you have your BSN (Citizen Service Number) – you’ll just need to upload your BSN within 90 days. It costs around €3.45 to €3.90 per month. You’ll need a passport or ID, plus a smartphone for the ING app. The app is available in
English, transfers are quick, and the process can be done entirely online. Learn more.
Revolut
The app automatically uses your phone’s language, making it very user-friendly. It’s free for the basic account (paid plans for extra features). Revolut is a European bank but not a Dutch bank, so you won’t get a Dutch IBAN. Transfers are generally fast, but some Dutch services may still prefer a local account. Learn more.
More useful banking tips
For many online services in the Netherlands, you’ll need a DigiD (Digital Identification), which you can apply for here once you have your BSN. If you’re unsure whether your accommodation is permanent, you can register the InAxtion office address to receive important letters, which will be kept safe and unopened until you collect them.
iDeal is a method of paying online using your debit card rather than your credit card. You use your e.dentifier and your PIN to pay for goods. If you have a banking app, you can simply scan the QR code on the website and identify yourself with a PIN code or Face ID to complete the transaction. It’s simple and a lot quicker than inputting your card details.
Also, keep in mind that some banks don’t offer English-language applications in-branch, so if Dutch isn’t your strong suit, applying online with ING or Revolut can save you time and frustration.
Opening a Dutch bank account isn’t a legal requirement, but it does make financial life in the Netherlands faster, smoother, and more convenient, especially when you need quick salary payments or want to handle official paperwork without delays.
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