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Openbank is Santander’s digital bank, part of one of the largest financial groups in Europe. It offers a free current account, a debit card (with an optional credit card), and 100% mobile management. In the Netherlands, it works as either a secondary or main account for those who want to avoid the high fees charged by traditional Dutch banks.
Main advantages:
- Free account and basic card (no annual fee)
- Mastercard accepted worldwide
- Free withdrawals at Santander ATMs across Europe
- Intuitive app with instant card blocking, real-time notifications, and compatibility with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay
- Spanish IBAN valid across the entire SEPA zone (works perfectly in the Netherlands)
It’s ideal for residents in the Netherlands who travel across Europe, shop online, or want an extra account with no fixed costs.
Requirements to open an account and request the card
To successfully apply, you need to meet these basic criteria:
- Age: 18 or older
- Residence: Legally living in the Netherlands or another EU country, with a valid Dutch address
- ID: Valid passport or European ID card (EU/EEA). A driver’s license alone is usually not accepted
- Phone number: A European number (Dutch is preferred)
- Proof of address: Utility bill, rental contract, or recent bank statement with your name and Dutch address
- Credit check (for credit card): Openbank performs a risk assessment. Debit-only accounts are easier to get approved
Important tip: If you’re new in the Netherlands, having a BSN (Burger Service Nummer) helps a lot, although it’s not always mandatory for digital banks like this.
What improves your chances of approval?
Digital banks like Openbank use algorithms to assess risk. Here are practical steps that significantly increase your chances:
- Show financial stability
Have a regular income (payslips, work contract, or bank statements). A typical informal minimum is around €1,000–€1,500 net per month, depending on your profile. - Use a real Dutch address
Avoid hotel or PO box addresses. A registered rental contract with the municipality helps a lot. - Maintain a clean banking history
Avoid bounced payments, high debt, or excessive credit usage. If you already have accounts with ING, ABN AMRO, or Rabobank, include them in your documents. - Provide accurate information
Fill everything correctly. Inconsistencies can lead to automatic rejection. - Start with a debit card
Apply for debit first. After a few months of proper use, getting credit approval becomes easier. - Submit high-quality documents
Clear, readable, and recent photos. Use good lighting during identity verification. - Connection with Santander
If you already have an account within the Santander group, it may help.
Following these steps, approval rates are usually high for stable residents in the Netherlands.
Step by step: How to apply for the Openbank Card
The process is fully online and usually takes 10–30 minutes to complete, plus verification time.
Step 1: Go to the official website or app
Visit the official Openbank website (openbank.es or the local version for the Netherlands). Download the Openbank app from the App Store or Google Play. The app is available in multiple languages, including English and often Portuguese.
Step 2: Start registration
Click “Open account” or “Apply for card.” Fill in your personal details: full name, date of birth, Dutch address, nationality, phone number, and email.
Step 3: Choose account/card type
- Free current account + debit card (recommended to start)
- Credit card option (subject to approval)
Step 4: Identity verification (KYC)
You’ll complete a quick video call or take a selfie with your ID. Have your passport or ID ready. Approval usually takes a few hours or up to 1–2 business days.
Step 5: Sign digitally
You’ll receive an SMS code to sign the contract electronically.
Step 6: Wait for approval
- Debit: usually approved quickly
- Credit: may take a few days for analysis
Step 7: Receive your card
- Virtual card: available instantly in the app
- Physical card: shipped free to your Dutch address (usually 5–10 business days). Activate it in the app
Done. Your Spanish IBAN account will be active, and you can transfer money via SEPA.
How the Openbank Card works in daily use
Once approved, the card works like this:
- Payments: Use it like any Mastercard—contactless, chip, or online
- Withdrawals: Up to 5 free withdrawals per month at non-Santander ATMs; unlimited and free at Santander ATMs in Europe
- App control: Full control—check balance in real time, block the card, set daily limits, receive instant notifications
- Transfers: Free within the SEPA zone. Use your Spanish IBAN to receive salary or pay bills
- Digital wallets: Add it to Apple Pay or Google Pay
- Security: Biometric authentication, instant blocking, and disposable virtual cards for online purchases
Typical costs (2026)
- Annual fee: €0 on the basic plan
- Extra withdrawals: Small fee (usually €1–2)
- Purchases in eurozone: No exchange fees
- Outside eurozone: Small FX margin (around 1–2%)
Advanced tips for using the card in the Netherlands
- Separate finances: Use Openbank for travel and online shopping, and keep your main Dutch account for rent and salary
- Track spending: Enable all notifications to prevent fraud
- Travel smart: Carry the physical card and use virtual cards. Santander ATM withdrawals are especially useful in Spain, Portugal, Germany, etc.
- Support: The app includes chat in multiple languages. Test Portuguese support if needed
- Keep info updated: Always keep your address and phone number up to date
Common issues and how to solve them
- Initial rejection: Wait 30 days and try again with stronger income proof
- Card delivery delay: Track it in the app; contact support if needed
- Spanish IBAN: Some Dutch services prefer a local IBAN, but most accept SEPA without issues
- Verification failed: Clean your phone camera and try again with better lighting
Real pros and cons
Pros:
- No fixed costs
- Fast, fully digital process
- Great for traveling across Europe
- Works with mobile wallets
Cons:
- Credit requires approval
- Limited free withdrawals outside Santander
- Support can be slower than traditional Dutch banks
Final verdict: Is it worth applying today?
Yes, especially if you’re looking for simplicity and lower costs. The Openbank Card is a solid entry point into digital banking in Europe. With Dutch residency, proper documentation, and stable income, your chances are strong.
Start through the official app or website, prepare your documents, and follow the steps. Within a week, you could already be using your new card.
