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. Most banks have packages specifically for students or young people. You can ask about this while setting up your account.

Biggest banks in the Netherlands

• ABN AMRO
• Rabobank
• ING
• SNS Bank
• ASN Bank
• Triodos

To open a private bank account in the Netherlands you will need to either make an appointment online, or simply walk into your nearest branch with all of your details.

To open a bank account in the Netherlands you will need the following:

• Your BSN number (Burgerservicenummer)
• A valid form of ID (passport or identity card - often a drivers licence is not acceptable)
• Proof of address (i.e. a rental contract)
• Residency permit if you come from outside of the EU