We recommend that you open a Belgian bank account for the HR Department to pay your monthly salary or scholarship into.
A Belgian bank account will also come in handy for other administrative purposes such as membership with a health insurance provider, registering with the water company, etc.
Bank services
Some banks allow customers to open bank accounts online, which means that international staff can open bank accounts before they arrive in Belgium (the bank must be informed once the residence permit has been issued).
Once the account has been opened, it can take up to two weeks to receive your bank card, PIN codes and the passwords necessary for managing the account. Bank statements are generally sent out monthly or can be consulted online.
Once you have a current account, you can carry out all standard bank transactions in Belgium. You can also request a credit card but some banks may wait a while to check whether you have sufficient deposits coming into your bank account before issuing you with a credit card.
Most banks offer a variety of packages for a monthly or annual fee, which includes the fees for bank cards, internet banking access, some transactions at ATMs and usually some form of account insurance.
To receive personal advice, withdraw large amounts of money, print your bank statements or change your personal details you will have to go to the branch where you opened your bank account. You can withdraw money and check your account at any ATM.
Banks also offer other products such as loans, individual pension plans (which are tax deductible), investments and insurance packages.
Opening a bank account
If you are going to be employed at the University of Antwerp, it is advisable to open a Belgian bank account. To open a bank account in Belgium, you will need the following documents:
- Passport or Belgian identity card
- Bank account application form (completed and signed)
- Some banks will request a proof of address in Belgium
Please note that additional documents may be requested by the bank, depending your personal situation.
Most banks have multiple branches in the city centre. They are mostly open between 9 a.m. and 12 noon and then again between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Some banks offer evening opening by appointment.
Opening a bank account through the university (remunerated staff only)
The International Staff Office can assist remunerated staff with opening a Belgian bank account. We have a collaboration with KBC and BNP Paribas Fortis.
- If you are interested in opening a bank account at KBC, please follow the instructions of the manual at the bottom of this page.
- If you are interested in opening a bank account at BNP Paribas Fortis, please contact us by mail (int.staff@uantwerpen.be).