Opening a Dutch business bank account

What type of bank account do you have?

The type of bank account you have now, the country you reside in, and the legal structure you want to start are all factors in determining whether or not you need to open an IBAN business bank account in the Netherlands.

You have no bank account

Do you not have a bank account at all? Then it is highly advisable to apply for one if you want to start a business in the Netherlands. After all, you will need to pay suppliers and taxes, and receive payments. If you employ staff, a bank account will make matters much easier for you.

You have a bank account inside the SEPA Zone

Do you reside in the Single Euro Payment Area (SEPA) Zone, and do you have a bank account? Then you already have an IBAN account. This IBAN account enables you to make national and cross-border euro payments easily and securely. You do not have to open another bank account in the Netherlands.

Are you an entrepreneur currently located outside the SEPA Zone?

In that case, it is necessary to apply for a business account with a bank located in the Netherlands. Due to strict legislation and individual acceptance policy, the banks have to look very carefully at each application before they can make a decision. That process can take some time.

Legal structure

Are you planning to set up a sole proprietorship or general partnership in the Netherlands? If you already have a private bank account, you do not have to open a business bank account. But it is advisable. A business bank account helps you keep your private and business affairs separate. Read what the pros and cons are (KVK).

If you plan to set up a bv or nv in the Netherlands, you have to open a business bank account for your financial business transactions. Read how to set up a business bank account in this KVK article.

Registering your company, step 1 and 2

Quick Scan Dutch business bank account

Are you a foreign entrepreneur who wants to set up business in the Netherlands? And do you need an IBAN business bank account?

The Dutch Banking Association has set up a Quick Scan 'Dutch Business Bank Account'. You can use it to find out if you are eligible for an IBAN business bank account in the Netherlands. Conditions are:

• The Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency (NFIA) has been and is actively involved in the process of choosing the Netherlands as your business location and moving here, or
• your business is a startup which is receiving assistance from a facilitator recognised by RVO.

How it works:

Go to the NVB website and download the Quick Scan 'Dutch Business Bank Account'. Answer the questions, attach the requested documents and mail the completed Quick Scan and the documents to the bank of your choice.

The bank will confirm the probability of a successful application to open an account within 5 business days of receipt of the Quick Scan.

The scan is intended for entrepreneurs who are already in the process of registering with the Netherlands Chamber of Commerce (KVK) and applying for a residence permit.

Are you not receiving assistance from NFIA or from a formally recognised facilitator? In that case you cannot use the Quick Scan. Please turn directly to a bank of your choice to check if you are eligible to apply for a business account.