You simply cannot get around in Holland without a bank account. Most importantly, you need one in order to receive your salary. Furthermore, you will need one to rent or buy accommodation, pay for gas and electricity, getting a phone line, and many other necessities.
EU citizens need a valid passport and "proof of address" in order to open a bank account. Some banks may, in addition, ask for proof of work and a Sofi-number (Social Fiscal Identification number), and even proof of "residence permit" application. Non-EU citizens are sometimes requested to bring proof of registration with the foreign police in addition to the above.
Choosing a bank
The largest banks in the Netherlands are the ABN-AMRO, ING, Rabobank and SNS.
Commissions are quite similar in all banks. Most banks have good internet banking facilities. Your best bets are ABN-AMRO, ING and Rabobank.
For a local office near to you, check out the websites of each bank.
ABN-AMRO
0900 0908
www.abnamro.nl
ING Bank
0800 7011
www.ing.nl
Rabobank
030 216 0000
www.rabobank.nl
SNS Bank
0900 - 18 50
www.snsbank.nl