Bank Options
ING
ING is one of the most used bank options in the Netherlands for international students. You can create a student account without any monthly costs.
You can open a student account via your phone by following the instructions on this website if:
- You have a Dutch passport or ID card (no driver’s license)
- You have an iPhone 7 or higher (Apple) or a phone with NFC (Android)
- You live in The Netherlands
- You are 18 years or older
If you do not apply to the criteria above, you can go to an ING-Service point with an appointment to create your account. Make sure to bring the following documents with you:
- A valid ID (passport, ID card, official residence document)
- A copy of your registration at a Dutch educational institution (full-time study), so-called proof of enrollment
- If you are an international student without Dutch ID: an original extract from the Personal Records Database (BRP), not older than 3 months
- Your burgerservicenummer (BSN) or, if you don’t have one, your Tax Identification Number (TIN). When you register in the BRP you will receive a BSN.
ABN Amro
ABN Amro is another bank in the Netherlands that offers a free student account. Creating an account on ABN-Amro is very easy through their app. All you need is a Dutch ID or a valid passport for international students. You can check out their website for more information on how to create an account.
Bunq
Bunq is another very easy-to-use online banking option in the Netherlands. Additionally, it is a sustainable bank! To open an account, all you need to do is download their app. The only downside of this option is that you need to pay a monthly fee of €2,99. Bunq has different plans that you can check out through their website to choose a plan with benefits that fit you. Please note, they are completely online and have no physical branches.
Some other sustainable options can be, Triodos, SNS, and ASN. However, this may be a bit more costly compared to other banks.
