Q&A
Can You Open a Dutch Bank Account Before Your BSN Arrives?
Can You Open a Dutch Bank Account Before Your BSN Arrives?
Yes. While the BSN is legally required for long-term banking in the Netherlands, several “expat-friendly” banks allow you to open an account and start using a Dutch IBAN immediately, provided you submit your BSN within 90 to 120 days.
Which Banks Allow Onboarding Without a BSN?
As of 2026, the most popular options for new arrivals are:
- ABN AMRO: Offers a dedicated “International Clients” app. You can open an account with just your passport and a temporary address (even a hotel like Htel).
- ING: Allows you to start the process via their app. They provide a 90-day window to submit your BSN after the account is active.
- Bunq: A Dutch mobile-only bank that is famous for its 5-minute setup. They allow you to use the account for up to 90 days before the BSN is mandatory.
- Revolut (NL Branch): Now offers local Dutch IBANs (starting with
NL...) and allows you to sign up using your foreign ID while you wait for your local registration.
What Do You Need to Apply?
Even without a BSN, you will still need to provide:
- A Valid Passport: Note that some apps (like ING) may not accept US passports for digital onboarding; US citizens often need to visit a branch or use ABN AMRO.
- Proof of Address: This can be your rental contract or a residence statement from your provider (like Htel).
- Identity Verification: A “video selfie” or a scan of your ID’s NFC chip via the bank’s app.
- Residence Permit/Visa: If you are a non-EU citizen, you may need to show your MVV (entry visa) or your VVR (residence permit) approval letter.
The “90-Day Rule”
If you open an account without a BSN, it is critically important to provide the number as soon as you receive it.
- After 90 Days: Most banks will block your account, meaning you can receive money but cannot withdraw it or pay bills.
- After 120 Days: If the BSN is still missing, the bank is legally required to terminate the relationship and close the account.
Why You Need a Local (NL) IBAN
While you can use “Neobanks” like N26 (which gives a German IBAN), having a Dutch IBAN is highly recommended for:
- iDEAL Payments: The most common way to pay for everything online in the Netherlands.
- Health Insurance: Some providers specifically request a Dutch account for monthly direct debits.
- Salary: Some Dutch payroll systems are still optimized for local IBANs.
How Htel Apartments Supports Your Banking
To open a traditional bank account, you need a reliable Dutch address where the bank can mail your physical debit card. Htel Apartments provides a secure mailing address and an official Proof of Residence letter that is recognized by ABN AMRO and ING. This allows you to walk into a branch (or apply via the app) the same day you land.
Get your Dutch finances started with a registered address in Amstelveen.