Opening a bank account in Belgium

Provide your bank information to Ghent University

To receive your salary or scholarship, Ghent University needs your European or Belgian bank account number (IBAN and BIC).

IBAN stands for International Bank Account Number and is an account number. In Belgium, an IBAN account number has 16 characters but it can go up to 34 characters in other countries. The first 2 letters are the country code where the account is held (BE for a Belgian account). A swift or BIC code is a 8 - 11 character code that identifies your country, city bank and branch.

Before you start working

If you already have a European or Belgian bank account, send the following information to your HR Officer:

• IBAN and BIC code of your account
• Name of your bank

If you do not yet have a European or Belgian account, please read below how to open one.

Why a Belgian bank account is recommended

• Payments arrive faster than on non-European accounts.
• You avoid exchange rate calculations and costs on transfers.
• Your bank card works everywhere in Belgium (electronic payment is common and often the only accepted method).
• For PhD and postdoc grant holders, having a Belgian account helps avoid double taxation in your home country — it proves your income is received in Belgium.

Ghent University cannot transfer money to bank accounts from countries on the international sanctions list (e.g. Russia, Iran, Cuba, North Korea, Syria). Staff from these countries must open a Belgian or European online account.

General information on bank accounts in Belgium

You can open a bank account online or in person at a local branch.
You will need:

• An identity document (passport or ID card)
• Proof of residence in Belgium (e.g. rental contract, registration document)

Banks may differ in their requirements. Some accept proof that your residence registration is in progress; others require your Belgian residence card first.

To avoid delays, we recommend opening an online bank account before arrival and switching to a local Belgian bank once you have your residence permit.

Note: Banking fees depend on the provider and are your own responsibility.

Before arrival: advised to open online bank account

Online (or digital) banks operate entirely via web or app.
They often have lower fees and allow you to open an account before arriving in Belgium.

Wise

Wise is an online bank with a Belgian banking license, available in most countries.
You can open accounts in multiple currencies (EUR, USD, GBP, …) and receive a free digital Mastercard for online and in-store payments.

• No Belgian residence card required (proof of address may be requested).
• Physical card: €5 (delivered within a week).
• Two free ATM withdrawals per month.
• Deposit at least €20 to activate your EUR IBAN account (required to receive UGent payments).

How to open a Wise account: For help, contact the Wise Help Centre or follow YouTube tutorials.

Your card is sent to the registered address.

Wise cannot open accounts for citizens or residents of countries under international sanctions.

Other online banks

For PhD students

• Studely
• Ready Study Go International

For international employees

• Revolut — full-service digital bank, works with Google/Apple Pay.
• Payoneer — suited for receiving international payments.
• Bunq — European bank with multi-currency accounts.
• HSBC International — global banking network.

Note: Availability may vary depending on your nationality or country of residence.

If you cannot open an account before arrival

Be prepared to cover your first expenses in Belgium without a local bank account.

• Check if your own cards (Visa, Mastercard, Maestro) work in Belgium.
• Set up Google Pay or PayPal if possible.
• Carry some cash, but avoid large amounts.
• If needed, contact someone you know in Belgium for temporary help.

Upon arrival: Open a Belgian bank account

What local banks offer

Local banks provide full services (current accounts, savings, credit cards, loans, insurance).
Once opened, you’ll receive your bank card and PIN codes within about two weeks.
Most banks offer packages that include cards, online access, and insurance for a small monthly fee.

Right to a basic banking service

Everyone legally residing in Belgium has the right to basic banking services, even with a temporary address.
Banks can only refuse service in specific, legally defined cases and must explain why in writing.

You’ll need:

• Your passport or residence document (Annex 49, 8, 15, etc.)
• Proof of your intention to register in Belgium (e.g. rental contract, employment letter)
• Later, your Belgian residence card

Some banks offer temporary access until your official ID is issued.

How to open a bank account

Bring the following documents:

• Passport or Belgian ID
• Proof of address (rental contract)
• Proof of employment (contract or appointment letter)
• Temporary residence document (Annex) or Belgian ID card

Your bank card and card reader will be mailed to your address or available for pickup at the branch.

Partner Banks of Ghent University

ING

• Branch: Kouter 173, Ghent
• Email: gent.kouter@ing.be
• Bring your passport, proof of income, residence permit, and accommodation contract.
• English website: ing.be

KBC Bank

• Branches: Kouter or Burgstraat, Ghent
• Appointment via: gent.kouter@kbc.be
• Documents: passport, proof of scholarship/income, and accommodation contract.
• English website: kbc.be

BNP Paribas Fortis Group

• Alternative option: Nickel

Other banks in Ghent (examples)

Lost or stolen bank card

If your card is lost or stolen:

1. Call Card Stop immediately:
   • In Belgium: 078 170 170
   • From abroad: +32 78 170 170
2. Inform your bank
3. Report the theft to the local police

Tip: Write down your card numbers and the contact details of your bank separately in case of loss.

More information

Wikifin – official Belgian website explaining financial topics and comparing banking options.

Expatica: Information about the Belgian bank system