(Source: Expat Welcome Desk)
Expats can open an account online or go to a bank office with proof of identity - a passport or a Belgian ID. Some of the large banks offer an expat service that allows you to open the account online before you move to Belgium - you will need to inform the bank once your residence permit has been issued.
Using a bank account:
· As soon as your account is open you can withdraw money and make payments.
· Payments in Belgium are generally made by electronic debit card or credit card. The use of cheques is now almost obsolete in Belgium.
· Check the rate of charges for a current account, as these can vary between banks.
· Bank statements are send by post by your bank at regular intervals with full details of of all deposits and payments. You can also read and print these statements via self-service banking or use a home banking service offered to customers with an online computer to consult statements, make payments and print documents.
Helpful Links:
Xpatris comparative platform
ING Expat
BNP Paribas Fortis
Service Bancaire de Base
(FR / NL)
Goldenpages- Overview of Belgian banks
KBC
