When arriving in the Netherlands one of the first things to get is internet and/or a new SIM card. What do you need to order?
There are two requirements usually for ordering a broadband subscription or a new SIM:

1. Dutch address
2. Dutch bank account

A Dutch address is necessary for you to subscribe to any internet provider. This makes sense, as it has to go to a house to be used.

If you don’t have a Dutch bank account yet, you cannot get an internet or mobile subscription from most providers. There are some exceptions to this rule. Listed next are providers that do not require a Dutch bank account for a SIM or internet connection:

• T-Mobile (internet/SIM)
• Solcon (internet)

Ordering T-Mobile without a Dutch bank account

T-Mobile tells us that it should be possible for anyone with a non-Dutch bank account to order any type of subscription from them. However, you do have to go to the nearest T-Mobile shop to get it all done. It cannot be done online. Find a T-Mobile store near you with this tool. 

Ordering Solcon without a Dutch bank account

Solcon has no problem with you having a non-Dutch bank account. The only thing they want is an IBAN - International Bank Account Number. You can check your IBAN online, it is your bank account number combined with an abbreviation for your country. With a quick Google search you will know exactly how to form your IBAN number.

More information about broadband in The Netherlands

Do you know the difference between DSL, coax cable and fibre optics?

And do you have any idea which connection you should choose, or what kind of internet speed you will need?

If your answer to these questions is no, and you're still looking for a broadband connection, definitely check out our guide for broadband in The Netherlands.

Alternative: buy a prepaid SIM

What can you do if you do not have a Dutch address nor a Dutch bank account, but you want to order a Dutch SIM nonetheless? Simple, prepaid SIM. It won’t get you stuck with a year of two-year subscription. Neither do you need to go through any of the struggles of dealing with needing a Dutch bank account.

You can buy a prepaid SIM in almost every supermarket or bookshop.

A prepaid SIM also gets you the advantage of calling and roaming for domestic prices. Consider that calling abroad to your family and friends is more expensive. For that use, it's better to use your own phone plan. 

Need more information on choosing the right phone plan in The Netherlands? You can find all the information you need in our extensive guide on mobile phone subscriptions in The Netherlands! 

English Customer Service

If you have any questions about Dutch internet or SIM cards, feel free to ask. Our customer service might have a slight Dutch accent, but we're willing to help you in English 🙂

Or start comparing prices in our English comparison tool:

start comparing