What you need to open a bank account in Belgium
To open a bank account in Belgium, you need a valid passport or national ID card, proof of address (a utility bill or rental contract dated within the last three months), and your tax identification number. If you are not a Belgian citizen, you will also need a residence permit or proof of legal residency. Most banks require you to be at least 18 years old, though some offer accounts for minors with parental consent.
The process itself is straightforward: you visit a bank branch in person, complete an application form, and provide your documents. The bank verifies your identity and address, runs a background check through the Belgian financial system, and opens your account on the spot or within a few days. You will receive your debit card and online banking credentials by mail within one to two weeks.
Belgium has three main types of banks: traditional full-service banks (like BNP Paribas Fortis, KBC, and ING Belgium), which offer branches and personal service; online-only banks (like Argenta and Beobank), which have lower fees but no physical locations; and neobanks (like Wise and Revolut), which operate entirely through apps and are best for international transfers rather than everyday banking.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring a valid ID, proof of address from the last three months, and your tax identification number to open an account in person at a Belgian bank branch.
- Non-citizens need a residence permit or proof of legal residency in addition to standard documents.
- Traditional banks take one to two weeks to issue your debit card and online access; online banks are often faster.
- Belgium's banking system is integrated with the European payment network, so your account works across the EU and uses the IBAN format.
Documents you must bring to the bank
Bring your original passport or national ID card — the bank will not accept a photocopy. You also need proof of your current address: a utility bill (electricity, gas, water, or internet), a rental contract, or a recent lease agreement. The document must be dated within the last three months and show your name and address clearly.
You will need your Belgian tax identification number (numéro de registre national or national register number). If you do not have one yet, you can request it from your local commune (municipality) office before opening the account, or the bank may help you obtain it as part of the application process. For non-Belgian residents, bring your residence permit (titre de séjour) or a letter from your employer or educational institution confirming your legal stay in Belgium.
Some banks ask for additional information: proof of income (a recent payslip or employment contract), your occupation, and the intended use of the account. This is standard practice and helps the bank comply with anti-money-laundering regulations. Have these documents ready even if the bank does not ask for them upfront.
Where to open an account: branches, online, or apps
If you choose a traditional bank like BNP Paribas Fortis, KBC, or ING Belgium, visit a branch in your city or town. You can find branch locations and opening hours on their websites. Call ahead or use their online appointment system to book a time slot — most branches now require appointments to manage foot traffic. The process takes 20 to 40 minutes, and you walk out with temporary access to your account that day.
Online banks like Argenta and Beobank let you start the process on their website or app. You upload photos of your ID and proof of address, complete the application, and verify your identity through video call or by visiting a partner location (often a post office or convenience store). These banks typically open your account within 24 to 48 hours and send your debit card by mail within five to ten business days.
Neobanks like Wise and Revolut operate entirely through mobile apps. You download the app, upload your documents, and complete identity verification online. Your account opens immediately, and you can use a virtual card right away. However, neobanks do not offer traditional banking services like loans or savings accounts, and some have restrictions on who can open accounts based on residency status.
What happens after you submit your application
Once you submit your application, the bank runs a background check through the Belgian financial system and verifies your identity with the authorities. This check usually takes one to three business days. During this time, your account is active but your debit card has not yet been issued. You can set up online banking and make transfers immediately if the bank provides temporary access.
Your physical debit card arrives by mail within seven to fourteen business days. Until it arrives, you can use your account number and online banking to pay bills, receive salary deposits, and make transfers. Some banks issue a temporary virtual card you can use for online purchases right away.
If the bank needs more information — for example, if your address proof is unclear or your identity cannot be fully verified — they will contact you by phone or email. Respond promptly; delays at this stage can add one to two weeks to the process. Once verification is complete, you will receive a confirmation email and your debit card will be mailed out.
Monthly fees and what they cover
Traditional banks in Belgium charge between €5 and €15 per month for a basic current account, depending on the bank and account type. This fee typically covers unlimited debit card transactions, online banking access, and one or two free transfers per month. Additional transfers usually cost €0.50 to €2 each. Some banks waive monthly fees if you maintain a minimum balance (often €500 to €1,000) or receive a regular salary deposit.
Online banks like Argenta and Beobank charge €2 to €5 per month or nothing at all, with the trade-off being fewer in-person services and limited branch access. Neobanks often have no monthly fee but charge for certain features: Wise charges for currency conversion and international transfers, while Revolut charges for premium features like travel insurance.
All Belgian banks charge for services beyond the basics: overdraft fees (€5 to €15 per occurrence), wire transfer fees (€5 to €25 depending on destination), and card replacement fees (€5 to €10). Ask the bank for a full fee schedule before opening the account so you know what to expect.
Using your Belgian bank account across Europe
Your Belgian bank account uses the IBAN (International Bank Account Number) format, which starts with "BE" followed by 12 digits. This IBAN works for transfers anywhere in the European Union and European Economic Area at no extra charge. Transfers within the EU take one to two business days and cost the same as domestic transfers.
If you need to send money outside Europe — to the United States, Asia, or Africa — your Belgian bank will charge a wire transfer fee (typically €15 to €30) plus a currency conversion markup (usually 1 to 3 percent above the real exchange rate). For frequent international transfers, neobanks like Wise offer better exchange rates and lower fees, though they are not suitable for everyday banking.
Your debit card works at ATMs and shops across Europe without additional fees, though some ATMs charge a small withdrawal fee (€1 to €3). Check with your bank whether they reimburse ATM fees or charge you for cash withdrawals outside Belgium.
If you cannot visit a branch in person
If you live outside Belgium or cannot visit a branch, online banks and neobanks are your best option. Argenta, Beobank, Wise, and Revolut all allow you to open an account entirely online using video identity verification. You will need to upload clear photos of your ID and proof of address, and you may need to complete a video call with a representative to confirm your identity.
Some traditional banks offer remote opening for customers who are already in Belgium but cannot reach a branch. Contact the bank directly to ask whether this is an option. A few banks also partner with post offices or other locations where you can complete the in-person verification step without visiting a bank branch.
If you are moving to Belgium and do not yet have a residence permit, open an account with an online bank before you arrive. Once you receive your permit and register with your local commune, you can upgrade to a full account with a traditional bank if you need additional services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account in Belgium if I am not a citizen?
Yes. You need a valid residence permit or proof of legal residency (such as a work contract or student enrollment letter), plus your ID, proof of address, and tax identification number. Non-citizens face the same process and fees as Belgian citizens.
How long does it take to get my debit card?
Physical debit cards arrive within seven to fourteen business days after your account is opened. Online banks and neobanks often issue virtual cards immediately that you can use for online purchases while you wait for the physical card.
What if I do not have a tax identification number yet?
Contact your local commune office to request one before opening the account, or ask the bank whether they can help you obtain it during the application process. The process takes a few days to a week.
Do I need a minimum balance to keep my account open?
No minimum balance is required by law. However, some banks waive monthly fees if you maintain a balance of €500 to €1,000 or receive a regular salary deposit. Check the bank's terms before opening the account.
Can I open an account online if I am outside Belgium?
Yes, online banks and neobanks allow remote opening with video identity verification. Traditional banks usually require an in-person visit, though some make exceptions for people already living in Belgium.