Netherlands Defines Foreigners' Bank Account Eligibility

The Dutch government has issued official guidance regarding the eligibility of foreign nationals to open bank accounts in the Netherlands, identifying two distinct categories based on citizenship and residency status. The first category includes nationals from the European Union, the European Economic Area, or Switzerland, who do not require a residence permit to open a bank account.

The second category pertains to foreign nationals from outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, who must meet two conditions simultaneously to access banking services. These conditions include residency and a tax requirement.

Specifically, any foreigner paying taxes in the Netherlands must obtain a citizen service number (BSN) prior to their bank account application being processed. The BSN is automatically assigned upon registration with the local municipality, thereby fulfilling both the eligibility requirement for opening a bank account and the tax identification number requirement.