Opening a Dutch bank account
International students who wish to open a Dutch bank account can do so at several banks.
ABN AMRO
The ABN AMRO bank has bank shops on both university campuses. ABN-AMRO bank charges a fee for using the account and the bank card, but the website and internet banking are available in English. You can read more about the application procedure and information on how to open an account. If you wish to open an account at ABN-AMRO bank we advise you start the procedure and submit the application form before you travel to the Netherlands, so the account can be activated as soon as you arrive in the Netherlands.
Proof of registration at the city hall (BSN-number) is not required immediately, but you will need to submit it within 2 months after activating the account.
ING
Another bank that welcomes international students is ING bank. This bank does not have a bank shop on the university's campus. ING charges no fees for using the account or the bank card, but the website and internet banking are only available in Dutch. You must be 18 years old to open an account at this bank. To open an account you must make sure you bring the following documents:
- Valid passport or other form of identification
- Proof of enrollment at the EUR
- If already available: proof of registration at the municipality (BSN-number)
If you bring all required documentation, including your BSN number, the account is activated immediately, and you immediately receive an active bank card. If you do not have a BSN-number yet, the bank card will be sent to your address within a week after which you can activate the account.
More information can be found at the ING-bank website (only in Dutch). The closest bank shop is located near the centre of Rotterdam, at Goudsesingel. For more information about the locations of the bank click here (only in Dutch).
Rabobank
Another bank where you could open a Dutch account is Rabobank. Rabobank does not have a bank shop on campus. Rabobank charges no fees for using the account or the bank card, but the website and internet banking are only available in Dutch. It is possible to open an account without a BSN-number, but you'll have to pass on the number within 2 months after opening the account. The account is activated immediately, and after 5 working days you will receive your bank card and PIN code in the mail. To open a bank account, you must have an appointment to do so and make sure you bring the following documents:
- Valid passport or other form of identification
- Proof of enrollment at the EUR
- If already available: proof of registration at the municipality (BSN-number)
The closest bank shop is located near the university campus, at Lusthofstraat. For more information about the locations of the bank click here (only in Dutch).
Summary
| Cost | Necessary Documents | Account Activation | Bank Card |
ABN | €2,75 |
| Immediately, if procedure is started on time | 3-4 working days |
Rabobank | €0 |
| Immediately | 5 working days |
ING | €0 |
| Immediately | With BSN: immediately Without BSN: within a week |
