Opening a bank account
If you wish, you can open a bank account in the Netherlands. With your Dutch bank card you can pay for your purchases in most of the shops, supermarkets and restaurants.
In order to open an account as an international student, you will need a Proof of Enrolment. You can download your Proof of Enrolment via Osiris.
You need a Dutch BSN number (burgerservicenummer; Citizen Service Number) to open a bank account. You will receive your BSN number approximately 4 weeks after registering in the Personal Records Database (BRP) of the municipality.
If you do not have a BSN number yet, you can still open an account, they allow you to provide your BSN number at a later time.
You can open a bank account at several banks.
Use of bank and credit cards
If you have a bank card that allows access to the Cirrus or Maestro network, you can withdraw money from your account through ATMs. You will need a PIN-code to access your account. Most shops only accept cash payment or payment by bank card. In some cases also credit card payment is possible. The Netherlands has a relatively high living standard and some products may be more expensive than in your own country.