What you need to open a bank account in Belgium

You can open a bank account in Belgium as a resident or non-resident, but the documents required and the process differ depending on your status. Most banks require proof of identity, proof of address, and sometimes proof of income or employment. The process typically takes one to three weeks from the moment you submit all documents.

If you are a Belgian resident or EU citizen living in Belgium, the process is straightforward. If you are a non-resident or a non-EU citizen, some banks will still open accounts for you, but fewer options exist and requirements are stricter. A few banks specialize in accounts for non-residents, though they may charge higher fees.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need a valid passport or ID card, proof of your current address, and sometimes proof of income, depending on the bank.
  • Belgian residents and EU citizens can open accounts at most banks; non-residents have fewer options and may face higher fees or longer processing times.
  • You can open an account in person at a branch or online with some banks, though online accounts for non-residents are rare.
  • Once your account opens, you can request an IBAN (International Bank Account Number) and set up direct debits or transfers when ready.
  • Some banks offer accounts specifically for students, young people, or self-employed individuals with different fee structures.

Documents you will need to bring

Start with a valid form of identification. A Belgian ID card, passport, or driver's license from an EU country all work. Non-EU citizens should bring a passport and, if you have one, a residence permit or visa showing you are legally in Belgium.

Next, bring proof of your current address. A utility bill (electricity, water, gas, or internet) dated within the last three months works best. A rental contract or a letter from your landlord stating your address is also acceptable. If you have just moved and do not yet have a utility bill in your name, ask your landlord or the property manager for a dated letter confirming your residence.

Some banks ask for proof of income, especially if you are opening an account with overdraft or credit features. A recent payslip, a contract of employment, or a letter from your employer stating your salary will satisfy this. Self-employed individuals should bring recent tax returns or accounting statements. Students may be asked to show proof of enrollment instead.

Opening an account in person at a bank branch

Visit a branch of the bank you have chosen during business hours. Most Belgian banks are open Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 or 5 p.m., and some branches open on Saturday mornings. Bring all documents listed above in originals or certified copies.

The bank employee will review your documents, ask you questions about the source of your funds and the purpose of the account, and may run a background check through the Belgian financial system. This is standard anti-money-laundering procedure and applies to all new accounts. The process takes 20 to 40 minutes.

You will sign account opening forms and choose your account type — most banks offer a basic current account, a savings account, or both. You will also set a PIN for your debit card and choose how you want to receive statements (paper, email, or online portal). The bank will issue a debit card on the spot or mail it to you within five to ten business days.

Opening an account online

Several Belgian banks now offer online account opening for residents and some EU citizens. Banks like Argenta, Belfius, and ING Belgium have online processes that let you upload documents and complete the process from home. Non-residents rarely have access to online opening; most must visit a branch in person.

The online process works like this: you create a login, upload photos of your ID and proof of address, answer questions about your employment and income, and submit. The bank then reviews your documents, which usually takes three to five business days. You will receive an email confirming approval or asking for additional information.

Once approved, the bank mails your debit card and account details to your address. You can log into your online banking portal when ready and set up transfers or direct debits, but you cannot withdraw cash or use the card until it arrives. The entire process from submission to receiving your card takes one to three weeks.

Banks that serve non-residents and international customers

If you are not a Belgian resident or EU citizen, your options narrow. Wise (formerly TransferWise) and Revolut offer accounts to non-residents and can be opened entirely online, but these are not traditional banks — they are fintech companies that hold your money in a trust account rather than a bank account. They work well for transfers and spending abroad but do not offer loans or savings products.

Some traditional Belgian banks will open accounts for non-residents if you visit a branch in person and meet their criteria. ING Belgium and Belfius sometimes do this, but policies vary by branch and change frequently. Call ahead or visit a branch to ask; do not assume you will be turned away without asking.

If you are a non-resident working in Belgium, your employer may have a relationship with a specific bank that will open accounts for foreign employees. Ask your HR department whether they have a preferred bank or a process for new hires.

Fees and account types

Most Belgian banks charge a monthly or annual fee for a current account, typically between €3 and €15 per month. Some banks waive fees if you maintain a minimum balance or receive your salary through the account. Savings accounts usually have no monthly fee but pay very low interest — often 0.01% to 0.5% annually, depending on the bank and the amount you hold.

Debit cards are usually free or cost €5 to €10 per year. Credit cards cost more, typically €30 to €100 per year, and require proof of income. Overdraft fees, ATM fees outside the bank's network, and international transfer fees vary widely; ask the bank for a full fee schedule before you open the account.

Student accounts often have lower or zero fees. Young people under 25 or 26 (the age varies by bank) may also may have access to for reduced-fee accounts. Self-employed individuals can open business accounts, which have higher fees but include invoicing tools and business-specific features.

What happens after your account opens

Once your account is active, you will receive your IBAN — a 34-character code that identifies your account across Europe. Your IBAN starts with "BE" followed by numbers. You will need this for your employer to pay your salary, for setting up direct debits, and for receiving transfers from abroad.

You can set up online banking when ready through the bank's website or app. Most Belgian banks offer two-factor authentication (a code sent to your phone) for security. You can view your balance, transfer money, pay bills, and read statements without visiting a branch.

If you need a second debit card for a family member or a business partner, most banks will issue one within five to ten business days. Some banks charge a small fee for additional cards; others include one free card with the account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account in Belgium if I do not have a permanent address yet?

Most banks require proof of address dated within the last three months. If you have just arrived, ask your landlord, property manager, or the accommodation provider for a dated letter confirming your residence. Some banks will accept a hotel booking confirmation or a temporary accommodation letter as a substitute while you wait for a utility bill.

How long does it take to receive my debit card after opening an account?

If you open an account in person at a branch, the bank may issue a temporary card on the spot or mail your card within five to ten business days. If you open online, the card arrives by mail within one to three weeks. You can use online banking and transfers when ready, but you cannot withdraw cash or use the card in shops until it arrives.

Do I need to be employed to open a bank account in Belgium?

No. Students, retirees, self-employed individuals, and unemployed people can all open accounts. Some banks may ask for proof of income or a source of funds, but this is for anti-money-laundering purposes, not to deny you an account. If you have no income, explain your situation to the bank — many will still open an account for you.

Can I open a Belgian bank account if I live outside Belgium?

Traditional banks rarely open accounts for non-residents unless you visit a branch in person. Fintech companies like Wise and Revolut open accounts for non-residents entirely online, but these are not traditional banks. If you work for a company with Belgian operations, ask your employer whether they have a banking relationship that covers foreign employees.

What is the difference between a current account and a savings account?

A current account is for everyday spending and receiving your salary; it comes with a debit card and online banking. A savings account is for storing money and earns a small amount of interest; it has no debit card and fewer transactions per month. Most people open both at the same bank so they can transfer money between them easily.