Brussels bank account?

Hey y'all,

Can anyone tell me what the advantages of opening a Belgian bank account are, versus just keeping on using my current one?

I've read that Belgian bank cards have a device called Proton on it with which you can pay for example in the Commission cafeterias. But I suppose it should also be possible to pay with cash there, right?

Thanks.

You have to be aware that many shops, cafes, restaurants etc. don't accept international cards, but only belgian ones - either working through Proton or Bancontact systems. Of course, you can always pay in cash.

I opened mine with INg, fast and easy, and as mikealus said it's easy to pay with the maestro card , accepted everywhere. Not sure about the costs of the account but it's way cheaper than at home (in france) where I hate those thiefs. Ing is also really good for the internet online bank. I'd say it's definitely worth having an acount here if you stay over 3 months, also to receive money from home or pay your rent etc.

I am also with ING and it was really easy to open (and FREE). They are used to interns if you go to their schuman branch, they also speak English. I got my mastreo card in about 2 weeks.