Bank Services
Find out all you need to know about banking services in the Netherlands
All Dutch banks provide a similar range of services for their customers and have also introduced online banking services. Unlike in some countries, cheques are not commonly used in the Netherlands. Cash machines (ATMs) are widespread, though - you can locate your nearest one using the ATM map. Credit/debit cards are not accepted everywhere, so if you do not have a Dutch bank card then carrying some cash may be useful as even Dutch supermarkets generally do not accept credit cards.
Most banks offer a variety of account types. The most easily acquired accounts are:
- savings accounts (Spaarrekening)
- current accounts (Betaalrekening)
Current (checking) accounts (Betaalrekening) come with a debit card which enables you to withdraw money from ATMs and to pay in shops and restaurants.
Credit Cards
In order to qualify for a credit card, you will require proof of sufficient income. You will pay an annual fee and possibly an additional monthly fee for the card. The Dutch tend to use credit cards for purposes such as renting a car, buying on the internet, or when travelling abroad. Whichever bank you choose, it is recommended to obtain a bank card that can be used abroad. Look for the Maestro and Cirrus logos on bank cards, as these networks allow you to withdraw money in most countries. Withdrawing money in other EU countries is free of charge.
ATMs
ATMs are called geldautomaten or pinautomaten in Dutch. Every reasonably sized town in the Netherlands has a few ATMs, and larger cities have many. It is possible to use any bank card in most ATMs in the Netherlands, regardless of which bank issued the card. For example, if you have a Rabobank card you may also use it in an ING pinautomaat at no extra charge. This is called guest use (gastgebruik) and you can only do this once a day.
Popular Dutch Banks
-
Rabobank
Rabobank is another well-known Dutch bank. Its headquarters are in Utrecht, but it has branch locations across the whole of the Netherlands. You can contact them via telephone on weekdays from 8:00 - 18:00 and on Saturdays from 9:00 - 17:30 at this number 088 722 66 00. You can also contact them via their mobile app.
-
ABN AMRO
ABN AMRO is the third largest bank in the Netherlands. You can contact them by telephone or mobile app. If you want to visit one of their office branches in person, then you can call first to make an appointment at 088 22 62 63 5 (free).
-
ING
ING is a popular Dutch bank with many branch locations worldwide. You can contact them them via telephone or their mobile app. Although you can set up an account online without the need for an appointment if you meet certain criteria, you can also arrange an appointment by phone during their office hours (Mon - Fri 08:30 - 17:00) at 020 22 888 88. Alternatively, you can make an appointment by finding your nearest ING service point.
