Do you need to open a business bank account?
An IBAN account enables account holders in the Single Euro Payment Area (SEPA) Zone to make national and cross-border euro payments easily and securely.
Although it is not mandatory, it is advised to keep you private bank account seperate from a business bank account. Read more about this.
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. Three Dutch banks work together in order to quickly inform a foreign entrepreneur if they are eligible to apply for an account. For that purpose, the Dutch Banking Association has created the Quick Scan 'Dutch Business Bank Account'. The scan is intended for entrepreneurs who are already in the process of registering with the Netherlands Chamber of Commerce (KVK) and obtaining a residence permit.
Quick Scan
Are you receiving assistance from the Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency (NFIA) or from another facilitator?
- 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.
- Are you not receiving assistance from NFIA or from another 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.
On the NVB website you’ll find the Quick Scan and more information.
Having a bank account is neccessary before registering your business with the Chamber of Commerce KVK. See step 1:
