Best Bank Accounts in the Netherlands for Expats (2026)
Compare the best Dutch bank accounts for expats. From traditional banks to digital alternatives, here is everything you need to know about banking in the Netherlands. Updated March 2026.
Tax note for the Netherlands: The Netherlands uses a unique "box 3" wealth tax system. Instead of taxing actual interest earned, the government assumes a fictional return on your savings and investments (ranging from about 0.36% to 6.17% depending on the amount and asset type) and taxes that at 36%. There is a tax-free threshold of approximately 57,000 EUR per person for 2026.
Our pick for Netherlands
Wise — Real exchange rate, no hidden fees
Trusted by 16M+ people worldwide. Send, spend, and receive in 40+ currencies at the real mid-market rate. Multi-currency account with local bank details in 10+ countries. No monthly fees.
We evaluated over 12 banks available in the Netherlands, comparing monthly fees, card costs, ATM access, FX markups, iDEAL support, and ease of opening for expats. Dutch deposit protection covers up to 100,000 EUR per person per institution under the Depositogarantiestelsel (DGS), managed by De Nederlandsche Bank.
ING and ABN AMRO are the two largest consumer banks in the Netherlands and offer the most comprehensive Dutch banking experience. bunq is a homegrown Dutch digital bank with a full banking license. N26, Wise, and Revolut are popular among expats for their easy onboarding.
What to look for as an expat in the Netherlands
iDEAL support -- iDEAL is the dominant online payment method in the Netherlands. Almost all Dutch online shops require it. ING, ABN AMRO, and bunq support iDEAL natively. Revolut recently added iDEAL support as well.
BSN requirement -- To open a Dutch bank account at ING or ABN AMRO, you typically need a BSN (Burgerservicenummer/citizen service number). You get this when you register at the gemeente. Digital banks like N26 and Wise do not require a BSN.
Tikkie -- The popular Dutch payment app Tikkie (by ABN AMRO) works best with a Dutch bank account. It has become the standard way to split bills among friends and colleagues.
Maestro vs. Mastercard/Visa -- The Netherlands has been transitioning from Maestro to Mastercard debit. ING and ABN AMRO now issue Mastercard debit cards, which work both domestically and internationally.
30% ruling -- If you qualify for the 30% ruling tax benefit, your banking needs may differ. You might want multi-currency accounts to manage your home-country finances alongside your Dutch salary.
Calculate your Netherlands salary first
Know exactly how much you take home after loonbelasting, social contributions, and the 30% ruling before deciding how to manage your money.