Opening an International Banking Account in Amsterdam12 min read

Opening an International Banking Account in Amsterdam12 min read

For many people living and working in Amsterdam, having access to international banking services is essential. 

Whether you’re an expat looking to manage finances from multiple countries or a digital nomad needing to receive payments from overseas clients, an international banking account allows for seamless cross-border financial transactions. 

But with so many options available, where do you start when it comes to opening an international account in Amsterdam? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

What Types of International Banking Accounts are Available for Clients in Amsterdam?

There are a few different types of international banking accounts that you can open when living in Amsterdam:

Offshore banking accounts – These accounts are provided by banks based in offshore financial centers outside the Netherlands. An offshore account allows for a higher degree of privacy and may offer some tax benefits depending on your personal situation. However, restrictions can apply depending on your country of residence.

International personal accounts – Many banks offer standard personal banking accounts tailored to international clients. These accounts cater specifically to individuals living abroad who still need access to basic banking services back home.

Digital international accounts – An increasing number of fully digital “challenger banks” allow non-residents to open international accounts online without needing to visit a physical branch. The Kingdom Bank is one such example, offering private and corporate banking services accessible worldwide from a computer or mobile device.

Business banking accounts – For self-employed individuals or established companies, international business accounts provide payment processing, multi-currency accounts, and additional features tailored to commercial needs. Both large institutions and specialist corporate banks offer these accounts.

No matter your specific financial situation, there is likely an international banking account option available in Amsterdam suited to managing your cross-border financial needs.

What Documents are Required to Open an International Banking Account in Amsterdam?

The application process and required documentation varies depending on the bank and account type, but most international accounts in Amsterdam will require the following minimum papers:

• Valid photo ID such as a passport or European national identity card. Some banks may also accept a driver’s license.
• Proof of Amsterdam address in the form of a recent utility bill, rental agreement, or other official correspondence showing your current Amsterdam residential address.
• Income proof like pay stubs, invoices, tax returns, or bank statements showing your source of regular income. Self-employed individuals may need to provide additional business registration documents.
• Reference letter from your employer or accountant if you are newly relocated to Amsterdam. This acts as a character reference of sorts.
• Additional documentation such as information on shareholders/beneficial owners for corporate entities or details on the source of initial deposit funds for high net-worth clients.

Having these core documents organized and digitized will ensure a smooth application process when opening your international banking account in Amsterdam. 

Always check a specific bank’s website for their most up-to-date requirements as well.

How to Open an International Banking Account in Amsterdam Online?

For individuals seeking a quick and convenient digital option, The Kingdom Bank stands out as one of the premier choices for online international banking in Amsterdam. 

Here’s a brief overview of how to open an account with us remotely:

• Visit The Kingdom Bank’s website and click “Open an Account”.
• Fill out the online application form providing your personal details, Amsterdam address, and uploading required ID documents.
• Verify your identity by uploading identification and taking a brief video call with a The Kingdom Bank representative.
• Fund your new account by transferring a minimum opening deposit amount, typically $500-1000 equivalent, from your existing bank.
• Your new international The Kingdom Bank account will then be activated and ready to use within 1-2 business days.

The entire signup process takes less than 30 minutes to complete remotely. 

The Kingdom Bank customers enjoy award-winning digital banking features including unlimited foreign exchange, IBAN accounts in 50+ currencies, multi-lingual customer support, and more – all accessible from an app on your phone or computer. 

For digital nomads especially, it offers an incredibly easy way to access international banking services right from Amsterdam.

Best Digital Bank to Open an International Banking Account in Amsterdam

When it comes to opening an online international banking account in Amsterdam, The Kingdom Bank stands out as the clear best choice. 

Here are a few key reasons why:

• 50+ Available Currencies – The Kingdom Bank accounts come with IBANs in over 50 global currencies, allowing for easy international payments and transfers worldwide. This is far more than any traditional bank.
• Borderless Banking – As a fully digital bank, The Kingdom Bank customers can access their accounts from anywhere through internet or mobile devices. There’s no need to maintain an Amsterdam address long-term.
• No Fees – Unlike most banks, The Kingdom Bank does not charge account fees, monthly maintenance costs, or foreign exchange fees on transfers and payments. Savings really add up over time with us.
• Multi-Lingual Support – Customer service is available 24/7 via phone, email and live chat in over 25 languages – perfect for non-Dutch speakers seeking banking in Amsterdam.
• Advanced Security – The Kingdom Bank utilizes bank-grade encryption, two-factor authentication, and other protections to ensure all transactions and data remain completely safe and secure online.

For expats, digital nomads or international entrepreneurs, The Kingdom Bank offers an unparalleled international banking solution in Amsterdam that’s fully digital, borderless, and affordable. 

It’s no wonder we are admired for pushing boundaries in the online banking space.

Can Anyone Open an International Banking Account in Amsterdam?

While many banks have relatively lax eligibility requirements, some international account options in Amsterdam are restricted to certain customer profiles. 

However, most individuals should qualify for international banking:

• EU/EEA Citizens can freely open bank accounts anywhere within the EU/EEA without restrictions. This applies to citizens of all EU/EEA nations residing in Amsterdam.
• Non-EU Expats may need a long-term residence permit showing authorization to live and work in Amsterdam long-term. Most require a minimum stay of 6-12 months.
• Digital Nomads can open some accounts without a fixed address if earning income online and traveling regularly. The Kingdom Bank is often the top choice.
• Self-Employed Freelancers must show valid business registration and evidence of regular self-employment income to banks. Invoices and contracts work.
• Students typically require acceptance letters to a university in Amsterdam to show student status. Specific student accounts exist.

Provided valid documents can prove your identity and Amsterdam connection, most individuals actively living and working in the city should face no issue accessing international banking services. 

Just be sure to compare account options thoroughly to find the best fit.

Opening an international banking account in Amsterdam presents residents with access to seamless global financial services, whether for work, study or personal reasons. 

Digital options like The Kingdom Bank are especially recommended based on our all-inclusive features and lack of fees. 

Be sure to thoroughly research requirements to streamline the application process. With the right international account, all your cross-border banking needs in Amsterdam are covered.