Banking in the Netherlands

Some people who already have Euro bank accounts may decide against opening a Dutch bank account, however it should be noted that supermarkets and pharmacies etc. only take Maestro (Not Visa or Mastercard) and online payments are often only available using iDeal, which requires a Dutch bank account.

Appointments can be made to open accounts at banks. A piece of ID, housing contract and BSN number are required to open the account (and proof of enrollment if you wish to open the free student account, it is also possible to open a regular account and provide the proof of being a student at a later date). You will then receive a few letters in the post for internet banking, and a debit card etc.