How to open a bank account in Luxembourg for British non-residents

Luxembourg is small in size but big in reputation. It’s one of Europe’s tiniest sovereign states, yet a major global hub for banking and finance.

And location-wise, Luxembourg’s in a great spot: right at the heart of the EU, nestled in among France, Belgium and Germany. All that makes the place attractive to expats from all over the world.

If you’re moving from the UK to Luxembourg, one of the first things you’ll need to settle in is a local bank account. This guide covers everything UK expats need to know about opening a bank account there. We’ll talk about how to choose the right bank, what documents you’ll need to get started, which banks to consider and more.

We’ll also show you an alternative from the money services provider Wise - the Wise account. It’s not a bank account but offers some similar features, and your money is safeguarded.

Over 14.8 million people worldwide use Wise to send, spend and convert money in pounds, euros and 40+ more currencies – for low, transparent fees* and no-markup exchange rates close to what you can see on Google. Plus, you’ll get dedicated support and volume discounts when sending large amounts.

➡️ Learn more about the Wise account

Table of contents

How to open a bank account in Luxembourg as a non-resident Do you need a bank account in Luxembourg? Can you use your UK bank account in Luxembourg? Can you open a bank account in Luxembourg as a British expat? Can you open a bank account in Luxembourg online as an expat from the UK? Can you open an account as an international student? What documents do you need to open a bank account in Luxembourg? Best bank accounts in Luxembourg for expats What are the banking fees and costs in Luxembourg? Is there a free bank account in Luxembourg for non-residents? Wise – an international alternative to a bank account

How to open a bank account in Luxembourg as a non-resident

Luxembourg is home to wealthy international citizens and global corporations, but the financial system still serves everyone. Even foreigners who aren’t residents can open a bank account in Luxembourg.

Not all banks offer services to non-residents, however, and some require non-residents to be employed in Luxembourg. So make sure you pick an institution that fits your situation.¹

Most banks offer current accounts that work much like those in the UK. You won’t be required to make extremely large minimum deposits or pay astronomical fees, so long as you choose one of those.

As a non-resident, you may be required to show up at a bank branch in person instead of going through digital onboarding.² Typically, you’ll need to take with you the usual paperwork: a valid ID, proof of address and, in some cases, proof of income.

Do you need a bank account in Luxembourg?

A bank account isn’t required to spend time in Luxembourg, but if you decide to live there, having one will make your life a lot easier. Employers, landlords and utility services may all ask you to transact with a Luxembourg bank account.

That said, if you’re only spending a short time in Luxembourg, or living elsewhere and simply commuting there for work, you can typically just use the bank account in your home country. Many cross-border workers from France, Belgium or Germany choose this option.

Can you use your UK bank account in Luxembourg?

If you’re only in Luxembourg short-term, you shouldn’t have issues using your UK bank account for purchases or cash withdrawals from ATMs. If you move permanently to Luxembourg though, you’ll need to check your bank’s policies. Some UK banks will close your account if you move out of the country.³

Also, keep in mind that using your UK account for international transactions often comes with fees attached. To avoid paying extra every time you need to move money in Luxembourg, you may want to get a local bank account.

Can you open a bank account in Luxembourg as a British expat?

You can easily open an account in Luxembourg as an expat from the UK. In fact, many banks in Luxembourg offer products and services specifically aimed at expats. These range from dedicated customer service specialists to free expat guides to discounted services.⁴ ⁵

Can you open a bank account in Luxembourg online as an expat from the UK?

Some banks in Luxembourg let UK expats open a bank account with all-digital onboarding. Whether or not you’ll be able to do this and what documentation you’ll need to complete the process will depend on the bank, the type of account you choose and your residency status.

In general, opening an account entirely online is easier if you’re already a resident of Luxembourg. If you’re applying from abroad, banks are more likely to request additional checks or require you to finalize the application in person.⁶

📚 Read more: Moving to Luxembourg from the UK: Complete guide

Can you open an account as an international student?

International students shouldn’t have difficulties opening a bank account in Luxembourg. Many banks offer student accounts specifically for this population, some with special discounts. You may be required to show the bank a certificate from the educational institution that proves you’re enrolled as a student.⁷

What documents do you need to open a bank account in Luxembourg?

To open a bank account, Luxembourg banks require similar documents as UK banks do. Requirements do vary by bank, but typically you’ll need to provide at least one document from each of these categories:¹

Proof of identity

• Valid passport
• National identity card
• Driving licence

Proof of address

• Luxembourg residency certificate
• Rental agreement
• Utility bill

Financial background

• Employment contract
• Recent pay slips
• Other proof of regular income
• Bank reference

Tax information

• Taxpayer identification number (TIN)
• Proof of tax residence

Banks may also ask you for extra paperwork in certain cases. If you’re applying for a student account, for example, you’ll likely be asked for a student enrolment certificate.⁷ And if you are depositing larger sums, you may need documents proving the source of the funds.

Best bank accounts in Luxembourg for expats

Luxembourg’s banks actively compete for expat clients, and some offer tailored package accounts and dedicated services for newcomers. Here are a few to consider:

ING Luxembourg

This Dutch bank offers an expat package that you can start setting up even before you arrive, with support via email and phone. Expats can get a current and a savings account, plus Visa debit and credit cards. ING also offers access to home loans and investment products.⁸

Spuerkeess

This state bank offers the Zebra Premium package for expats, described as a complete banking package that includes cards, transfers and other services. Expats benefit from the first six months free of charge.⁴

BGL BNP Paribas

BGL runs an expat support service to help you open your account before you arrive in Luxembourg. The bank offers several account packs at different service levels, including a free Young People Pack for students and young professionals.⁶

Banque Internationale à Luxembourg (BIL)

BIL has a page dedicated to newcomers relocating to Luxembourg. In addition to regular banking accounts, this bank offers tax-deductible savings products and investment solutions.⁹

Other banks and money management alternatives worth looking into

If a Luxembourg bank account isn’t the right fit, or if you’d like to simply see what other options out there might work better for you, there are a few alternatives:

• Banks in neighboring countries. Opening an account in Belgium, France or Germany may work for you. However, most banks in Belgium and Germany require proof of residency, so this option may be practical only if you actually plan to live in one of those countries. France is the exception and likely your best bet for opening a non-resident account.¹⁰
• Digital banks. Neobanks like N26, Revolut and Bunq are popular with expats because they offer quick digital sign-up and work across the EU
• Money services providers like Wise with a multi-currency account that lets you spend, convert, send and receive money internationally

What are the banking fees and costs in Luxembourg?

Your banking costs in Luxembourg will depend on the bank and type of account you choose. Young people can often take advantage of youth packages where many services are free of charge, for example.¹¹

Some accounts also include a number of free transactions each month. Go over that limit, though, and fees apply. Fees can also depend on how much money is involved and whether you use electronic or manual transfers.¹²

Basically, it’s wise to know what the exact fees are before signing for an account since they can vary quite a bit. Here’s a general overview of what to expect:

Transaction/fee type	Typical fee
Opening an account	Usually free for standard current accounts at retail banks
Account maintenance	€0 to €12 per month, depending on the account package and service level
Cash withdrawal	Typically free for withdrawals at your own bank’s ATMs, but withdrawals made in foreign countries at other banks’ ATMs can run €5 or more, even before foreign exchange fees
Debit card	Typically range from free to €12 per month
International transfers	€0 to €1 for standard SEPA transfers, but up to €200 for large, manual transfers in foreign currency

Is there a free bank account in Luxembourg for non-residents?

Many banks in Luxembourg do offer free account options, and in some cases these are available to non-residents as well as residents.² In practice, though, the no–fee deals usually come with conditions.

For example, youth and student accounts are often free, but require you to provide proof of age or student status to qualify.¹³ Other free or low-cost accounts are often limited to basic services, with restrictions on the number of withdrawals or transactions.¹⁴

Still, if you qualify and are comfortable with the limitations, these free accounts can be a practical choice.

Wise – an international alternative to a bank account

As you think about opening a bank account in Luxembourg, you might want to consider whether a Wise account might be a better option. It's not a bank account but offers some similar features and your money is safeguarded.

It covers most everyday transaction needs and you can also use it to convert currencies or send money to and from the UK, Luxembourg and many other countries.

Here’s an overview of the main benefits of using Wise:

Fast and easy setup with no physical paperwork Low, upfront fees* and no-markup mid-market exchange rates Dedicated support and volume discounts for large transfers No monthly/annual account fees Sophisticated security and anti-fraud measures, with your money safeguarded Trackable and fast transfers to 140+ countries Low-cost spending in 160+ countries with the Wise card Earn a variable return on your GBP, USD and EUR with Wise Interest (capital at risk, growth not guaranteed)**

✅ Sign up with Wise for free

**Investments in funds are never guaranteed and your capital can be at risk. In the UK, Interest and Stocks are provided by Wise Assets — this is the trading name of Wise Assets UK Ltd, a subsidiary of Wise. Wise Assets UK Ltd is authorised as an investment firm and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Our FCA number is 839689. We do not give investment advice, and you may be subject to pay tax. If you're not sure, seek qualified advice. You can find more information about the funds on our website.

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Sources used:

1. ING - How to find the right bank for you in Luxembourg?
2. Spuerkeess - Can I open an account as a non-resident?
3. Barclays - Living or moving outside the UK
4. Spuerkeess - The best all-inclusive banking offer in the Grand Duchy!
5. ING - Before you arrive
6. BGL BNP Paribas - How do I open a bank account in Luxembourg?
7. University of Luxembourg - Financial support
8. ING - Welcome to Luxembourg
9. BIL - Exclusive offers for newcomers
10. CA Britline - Can I open a French bank account as a non-resident?
11. Spuerkeess - Principaux tarifs bancaires au 25
12. BGL BNP Paribas- Banking rates

Sources last checked 25-Sep-2025