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If you live in the Netherlands or anywhere else in Europe and are tired of paying annual fees, hidden charges, and dealing with bureaucracy just to have a decent card, Openbank might be exactly what you’re looking for.
It’s a digital solution from the Santander Group (one of the largest banks in Europe) that offers a bank account + card with no fixed costs, all managed from your phone.
Why are so many people switching to Openbank?
No annual fees
Neither the account nor the card has maintenance fees. You open it for free and keep it for free.
100% app-based
From sign-up to blocking your card, everything can be done in minutes through the app (available on iPhone and Android). No need to visit a branch or send paperwork.
Mastercard accepted worldwide
Use it for in-store purchases, online shopping, or anywhere that accepts Mastercard.
High-level security
Get instant notifications for every purchase, use fingerprint or Face ID, set daily limits, and block your card instantly if needed.
Free withdrawals at Santander ATMs
In the Netherlands, Spain, Germany, Portugal, and other Santander countries, you can withdraw cash with no fees.
Works with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay
Pay using your phone or smartwatch — fast and convenient for daily use.
Physical card + virtual cards
Receive your physical card at home and create virtual cards (including disposable ones) for safer online shopping.
Fees and conditions (updated for 2026)
- Account annual fee: €0.00
- Debit card: Free
- Credit card: Available after approval
- Withdrawals at Santander ATMs (Europe): Unlimited and free
- Withdrawals at other ATMs: 5 free per month (small fee after that)
- Purchases in euro: No exchange fees
- Purchases in USD or other currencies: Small exchange margin
- Virtual card: Instant and free
- Physical card delivery: Free
Who can open an Openbank account?
- Be 18 years or older
- Live in any European Union country (including the Netherlands)
- Have a passport or European ID
- Provide proof of address (digital is accepted)
- Have a phone number from an EU country
- Pass a credit check (only if applying for credit)
Is Openbank safe?
Yes. The bank is fully licensed by the Bank of Spain, follows all European regulations, and protects deposits up to €100,000 under the deposit guarantee scheme. It is part of Santander, a bank with over 160 years of history.
Openbank vs Revolut – Direct Comparison
Annual fee
Openbank: Free
Revolut (Free Plan): Free
IBAN
Openbank: Spanish (SEPA)
Revolut: European
Free withdrawals
Openbank: Unlimited at Santander ATMs
Revolut: Up to €200/month
Credit card
Openbank: Yes (subject to approval)
Revolut: Not in the basic plan
Cashback
Openbank: No
Revolut: Limited
Disposable virtual cards
Openbank: Yes
Revolut: Yes
Support in Portuguese
Openbank: Excellent
Revolut: Good
Focus
Openbank: Simplicity and reliability
Revolut: Extra features and crypto
My honest opinion
Openbank isn’t the flashiest card on the market, but it’s one of the cleanest and most reliable options. It’s ideal if you want a secondary account in Europe, make international purchases without hassle, or simply stop paying annual fees.
If you travel often across Europe, shop online, or want to separate personal expenses from your main Dutch bank account, it’s definitely worth trying.
Frequently asked questions
Can I open an account while living in the Netherlands?
Yes, the entire process is online and they accept Dutch residents.
How long does it take to receive the physical card?
Usually 7 to 10 business days.
Is the app available in Portuguese?
Yes, it has full Portuguese support.
Does it work well with Apple Pay?
Yes, perfectly — as well as Google Pay and Samsung Pay.
Are there any hidden fees?
No. The only possible charges are for extra ATM withdrawals or currency exchange outside the eurozone.
