Banking
Opening a bank account in a new country can feel like the first big hurdle after you arrive - every country does it differently, and Belgium is no exception. The good news is that once you know what to bring and what to expect, it is a quick process.
This page explains why you need a Belgian bank account, what documents to prepare, how the main banks compare, and what to do when you close your account before leaving Belgium.
Overview
Opening a bank account in Belgium works a little differently depending on your situation - whether you have just arrived, moved with a partner, or are already settled into a job.
Your choices will depend on your residency status, how you prefer to manage your money, and how long you plan to stay in Belgium. Before you choose a bank, it helps to know what documents you will need and how everyday banking works here.
Why you need a Belgian bank account
Most employers, landlords, and utility companies in Belgium will ask for a Belgian IBAN - the international account number format used across Europe. Without one, it is difficult to receive your salary, pay rent, or set up direct debits for bills like energy and internet.
If you are moving to West Flanders with a partner, you can usually open a joint account together, or keep separate accounts and share bills between them. Both options are common, so choose whatever suits your household best.
What you need to open an account
Requirements vary slightly between banks, but you will typically need:
- A valid passport or national ID card
- Proof of your Belgian address, such as your registration at the municipality (gemeente) or a rental contract
- Your Belgian national registration number, once you have registered at your local municipality
- Proof of income or an employment contract, if you have one
If you have not yet registered at your municipality, some banks offer a temporary or starter account so you can manage money in the meantime. It is worth asking directly, as policies differ between banks.
Choosing a bank
Belgium has several major banks, each with slightly different services for internationals:
- BNP Paribas Fortis offers a dedicated service for expats.
- ING Belgium has daily banking support for expats during your stay.
- KBC Brussels provides English-language banking and insurance services.
- Belfius offers full internet banking with a wide branch network.
- Hello bank! is a mobile-first bank, useful if you prefer managing everything from your phone.
- MeDirect focuses on savings and investment products.
If you value in-person support and a nearby branch, a traditional bank such as BNP Paribas Fortis, KBC, or Belfius may suit you better. If you are comfortable banking entirely online, Hello bank! is a straightforward option.
Everyday banking in Belgium
Once your account is open, you will manage most of your banking through a mobile app. A few things that are useful to know from the start:
Bancontact is the most common way to pay in shops, restaurants, and online - it works with your bank card and phone. Contactless payment is standard almost everywhere.
Transfers between Belgian and other EU bank accounts use the SEPA system, which means they are usually free and arrive within one business day. This makes it easy to send money to or from another EU country.
Most banks also offer a savings account (spaarrekening) alongside your current account, which can be useful if you want to set money aside separately.
Closing your account when you leave
If you are preparing to leave Belgium, contact your bank before you go to close your account properly. Make sure all direct debits and standing orders are cancelled first, and ask your bank about transferring your remaining balance to a foreign account. Leaving an account open after you move can result in ongoing maintenance fees.
Good to know: Banks in Belgium can take one to two weeks to fully activate a new account, so it is worth starting the process as soon as you have a fixed address - even a temporary one. If you have just arrived and do not yet have your national registration number, ask your chosen bank whether they offer a starter account so you are not left without access to your money in the meantime.
Sources
- National Bank of Belgium
- Hello bank!
- KBC Brussels - Bank & Insurance
- MeDirect
- ING Belgium - Expat banking
- ING Belgium - Individuals
- Belfius
- BNP Paribas Fortis - Expats
- BNP Paribas Fortis - Individuals
