Open a Bank Account in Belgium - Procedure and Documents

The process of opening a bank account in Belgium is straightforward and can be done with a minimum number of mandatory documents. A bank account is required for individuals who live and work in Belgium but also for companies incorporated in Belgium that need the account for business transactions.

Quick Facts
Mandatory local bank account for companies (Yes/No)	Yes
Mandatory residence requirement	No
Bank account opening time	2 working days to set up the account, approximately 7 days to receive the card
Online bank account opening	Possible with some banks
Bank accounts for foreign nationals in Belgium	Yes
Required documents – companies	Business owner's ID details Documents confirming the company's registration in Belgium Other documents, as may be requested by the bank
Required documents – individuals in Belgium	Passport Residence permit Proof of employment/income and/or accomodation in Belgium – as required by the bank
Special requirements for foreign nationals	Proof of identity, residence permit
Bank fees	Current account annual fee can be between EUR 39 and 54, depending on the bank's policy Cash withdrawals can include a fee of EUR 0.50 for non-bank ATM withdrawals (as established by the bank) *Cheking the applicable fees is always advisable before you open a bank account in Belgium
Initial deposit when you open a bank account in Belgium	Not usually applicable
Types of accounts	Current accounts Savings accounts
Online banking	Yes. Features depend on the chosen bank
Local agent requirements to open a bank account in Belgium	Using an appointed, local agent is advisable in some cases
Main banks in Belgium	BNP Paribas Fortis ING KBC
Criteria for choosing the bank	Bank fees, number of ATMs, number of branches in Belgium, bank's presence in other countries, expat services, tailored services, online banking facilities, etc.
Mobile banking	Available and increasingly popular. Options differ according to the chosen bank.
Bank branches network	An extensive network of national and international banks
Credit facilities	Personal loans (mortgage, student, etc.), and commercial loans.
Interest rate	Depending on the chosen bank, can be between 1,25% and 1,60% in some cases.
Savings account minimum balance	Examples include a minimum opening balance of USD 2,500
Personal credit cards	Credit cards are available with different repayment plans, depending on the chosen bank.
Additional options for credit cards	Customization according to the client’s preferences (limits, repayments spreading, etc.)
Credit card payment	Depends on the chosen bank.
Other services for bank clients in Belgium	Insurance plans, merchant accounts, private banking services for large fortunes, services for expats, etc.
Differences for residents/non-residents	Foreigners can still apply for an account with a Belgian bank even if they do not have a Belgian address. Conditions apply.
International banks in Belgium	Bank of America, BBVA, Citibank, Deutsche Bank, HSBC, and others.
Special rules for certain foreign citizens	Americans are required to report their foreign bank accounts to the IRS.
Bank account issues handled through a representative	Our team of lawyers in Belgium can assist foreigners who need to handle banking matters via a power of attorney.
How we can assist you	We provide personalized solutions for Belgian banking matters to individuals and corporate bank account holders.
When to contact us	If you need assistance for personal or business bank account opening in Belgium.

What are the steps for opening a bank account in Belgium in 2026?

Here are the steps that can be useful when you decide to open a bank account in Belgium:

Choose the type of account: this will depend whether or not the client is a natural or legal person but is can also be classified according to the types of accounts offered by a particular bank;
Consider the facilities: accessibility, the number of ATMs and actual branch distribution throughout the country can be key factors to consider, especially for individuals who travel throughout the country or companies that have more than office in Belgium;
Fees: this is an important issue to consider and it refers to the costs for opening the account as well as any and all recurrent costs related to different facilities and the usual account maintenance;
Online options: in today’s fast-moving world, individuals and companies alike can prefer to work with a bank that is able to provide basic mobile and online services; moreover, banks with a user-friendly app can help attract and keep certain types of clients;
Terms and conditions: finally, it is important to keep in mind that one should understand the overall terms and conditions for using the account; fees, charges, account particularities and options should all be taken into consideration before signing the services agreement.

What are the main requirements to open a bank account in Belgium in 2026?

All banks in Belgium need to adhere to stringent EU rules on banking services and anti-money laundering (AML). Therefore, applicants must satisfy certain criteria prior to opening an account. Some common requirements are:

To be above 18 years old (or have a legal guardian for minor’s accounts);
Have a valid ID proof;
Demonstrate proof of residency or presence within Belgium (in case of residents/employees);
Satisfy initial compliance requirements (AML/KYC);
Provide a valid mailing address (EU/non-EU addresses both acceptable)

However, for individuals without a legal presence in Belgium, more stringent criteria could apply, including justification for a Belgian bank account. Our experts in setting up companies in Belgium can give you more details.

What documents are required for opening a personal bank account in Belgium?

For private individuals, Belgian banks usually demand certain basic documents. Some banks may demand more documentation from an individual based on his or her risk profile. These documents include the following:

A valid passport or ID card (EU nationals can use their national ID cards);
Residence permit issued by the Belgian government (non-EU nationals only);
Address proof, such as: utility bills, lease agreements, or an official letter issued within the last 3 months;
National registration number (if one exists);
Proof of income or employment;
Taxpayer identification number (cross-border regulations).

Which documents need to be provided in order to open a corporate bank account in Belgium?

For companies registered in Belgium, banks demand more detailed documentation as part of the compliance procedures with regard to corporate due diligence. The required documents are:

Documents concerning company registration (extract from Crossroads Bank for Enterprises);
Articles of Association;
VAT identification (if any);
Identification documents of directors and shareholders;
Evidence of business operations (contract agreements, invoices, business plan);
Address proof for the company in Belgium;
UBO Declaration (Ultimate Beneficial Owner Register).

The banks could perform additional verification procedures regarding the company and especially its owners who are foreigners.

Are there any banking facilities for foreigners in Belgium?

Some banks in Belgium offer special types of accounts or packages for foreigners. Non-residents who live and work outside of Belgium but need to have a bank account in the country can open a special bank account that will offer them multi-currency and management solutions adapted to their needs and financial investments in Belgium.

What is the timeframe for opening a bank account in Belgium?

This will depend on the nature of the person applying and the banking process involved. Expected timelines include:

Online application (citizens of EU): 1-3 working days;
Application made in bank branches: 3-7 working days;
For non-EU citizens or commercial purposes: 1-3 weeks (or more depending on other verifications).

It is possible that there may be delays if documents are not complete or enhanced compliance checks are needed. Some of the ways of ensuring a fast process include:

All document validity dates being current and updated;
Matched names and addresses on all documents;
Clear and readable proof of residence.

If you are a foreigner and want to open a bank account in Belgium, please contact our company registration agents.