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Practical guide

Open an account when banks say no

Without a bank account, receiving a salary or integration income and paying rent become difficult. The basic banking service is a RIGHT: a bank must open an account under the legal conditions, even if you are listed in the credit register or have an ongoing residence application.

Before you start

  • One identity document is enough: identity card, residence permit, orange card (Annex 4), Annex 26, Annex 15, Annex 35, temporary-protection certificate or, failing those, a foreign passport.
  • An address where you can receive mail. A reference address at the CPAS is accepted; see the dedicated guide.

The steps, in order

  1. What to know firstAmounts and practices audited in August 2026 (source: bank account file of the knowledge base). Rates are indexed annually. Without a residence permit, the opening remains very difficult in practice: be accompanied by a free legal service.

    Choose a bank and request the "basic banking service"

    All Belgian banks must offer it. Go in and say: "I am here to request the basic banking service." It is an account with a debit card, transfers and cash withdrawals, costing about 20 € per year in 2026; the amount is indexed annually.

  2. Ask for the written application form

    This is the decisive point: a written application requires the bank to answer within 10 working days and to give written reasons for any refusal. A verbal "no" at the counter, without a document, does not count. Politely insist on receiving the form.

  3. If the bank refuses, obtain the written decision and reasons

    The bank can only refuse for specific reasons set by law (e.g. you already have a usable account). Being registered with the National Bank is NOT a valid reason for refusal. The copy of the refusal is free of charge and this is your proof.

  4. Contact Ombudsfin: it is free and effective

    Ombudsfin (ombudsfin.be, 02 545 77 70) is the banking ombudsman. For the basic banking service, its decision is BINDING: it can overturn the refusal or require another bank to open the account. A social service or public writer can help you file the complaint.

  5. Use a temporary solution while you wait

    The CPAS can pay integration income by circular cheque, which you can cash free of charge at a bpost office with an identity document. A Nickel account costs about 25 € per year and can be opened within minutes at authorised bpost offices and newsagents, with more than 190 types of passport accepted. It is a paid temporary solution and does not replace your right to the basic banking service.

This guide offers guidance, never legal advice. Practice differs from one commune to another: call before you go. If you are in immediate danger, call 112.