Whether you’re moving to Belgium for work, study, or a new life adventure, opening a local bank account will make your transition smoother. A Belgian account allows you to receive your salary, pay rent, manage daily expenses, and avoid foreign transaction fees.

Belgium’s banking system is highly modern, multilingual, and well-integrated into the European financial network. Here’s everything you need to know to set up your first account confidently.

Currency in Belgium

Belgium uses the Euro (€) as its official currency.

As part of the Eurozone and the SEPA (Single Euro Payments Area) network, payments within Belgium and across EU countries are fast, secure, and usually free of extra charges.

Having a local account ensures you can easily handle domestic transactions, automate rent or utility payments, and get paid in Euros without conversion fees.

Best Banks in Belgium for Newcomers

Belgium offers a mix of large international banks, regional savings banks, and digital-first alternatives. Here are some of the best options for expats, students, and newcomers in 2026:

BNP Paribas Fortis

Belgium’s largest bank and part of the BNP Paribas Group.

• Perk for newcomers: Dedicated expat packages and English-language customer support.

• Why choose it? Ideal for professionals and families who want a reliable, full-service bank.

KBC Bank

A leading Belgian bank with a strong reputation for digital innovation.

• Perk for newcomers: Intuitive mobile app in English, Dutch, and French.

• Why choose it? Perfect for tech-savvy users who prefer to manage everything online.

ING Belgium

Internationally recognized and very expat-friendly.

• Perk for newcomers: Simple account setup and English-speaking staff in most urban branches.

• Why choose it? Great for professionals, freelancers, and students looking for efficiency and flexibility.

Belfius Bank

A state-owned bank known for reliability and modern services.

• Perk for newcomers: English-language app and flexible student and salary accounts.

• Why choose it? Strong balance between traditional service and digital convenience.

Hello Bank! (by BNP Paribas)

A fully online bank offering no-fee accounts.

• Perk for newcomers: Quick online registration and multilingual platform.

• Why choose it? Perfect for students and digital nomads who prefer banking from their phone.

Documentation Needed

To open a bank account in Belgium, you’ll need the following documents (requirements may vary slightly by bank):

1. Valid Passport or EU National ID Card – Proof of identity.

2. Prpof of Address in Belgium – A rental contract, utility bill, or registration certificate (attestation de résidence).

3. Residence Permit (for non-EU citizens) – Confirms your legal right to stay in Belgium.

4. Proof of Employment or Study (optional) – Often requested for certain account types.

5. National Register Number (if available) – Issued after registering at your local commune.

6. Initial Deposit – Typically €25–€100 depending on the bank.

 If you don’t yet have a registered Belgian address, some banks like ING or Hello Bank! allow temporary non-resident accounts, which you can upgrade later.

Tips for Opening a Bank Account in Belgium as a Foreigner

• Register your address first: Most banks require proof of local registration (commune inscription).

• Compare account fees: Some banks charge small monthly fees (typically €3–€5), while digital banks often offer free basic accounts.

• Expect multilingual service: Belgium’s main languages are Dutch, French, and German, but English support is widely available in larger cities.

• Bring physical copies: Even with digital applications, most banks ask for printed copies of IDs and residence proof.

• Set up SEPA payments: Once your account is active, you can easily send and receive Euro payments across the EU.

• Use contactless and mobile payments: Apps like Payconiq by Bancontact and Apple/Google Pay are standard for day-to-day transactions.

• Bank hours: Branches usually open Monday–Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM; many services are handled online 24/7.

Final Thoughts

Opening a bank account in Belgium is straightforward especially if you have your residence documents and address ready. The system is efficient, international-friendly, and fully connected to Europe’s digital payments network.

Traditional banks like BNP Paribas Fortis, KBC, and ING offer excellent personal service and multilingual support, while Hello Bank! and Revolut provide fast, no-fee digital alternatives.

With the right documents and a little preparation, you’ll be ready to manage your finances smoothly and confidently in Belgium, the heart of Europe.