Broker Netherlands – Compare the Best Online Brokers 2025

Looking for the best broker in the Netherlands? This guide shows you the top trading platforms available in 2025, with clear comparisons on fees, features, and supported assets. Whether you’re a local investor or an expat, you’ll learn how to open an account, trade efficiently, and choose a broker that fits your needs.

Who Can Open a Broker Account in the Netherlands

Anyone can open a broker account in the Netherlands – as long as they meet the basic legal and verification requirements. This includes Dutch nationals, EU citizens, and expats with legal residency. Whether you’re using a local platform like DEGIRO or an international broker such as eToro, the onboarding process is similar and fully online.

To open an account, you typically need:

• Valid ID (passport or EU national ID card)
• Proof of address (utility bill, bank statement, rental contract)
• Minimum age: 18 years
• SEPA-compatible bank account
• Tax identification number (BSN for Dutch residents)
• Completed KYC verification

Most brokers operating in the Netherlands follow EU regulations under MiFID II, which means identity and address verification is required before you can deposit or trade. Dutch residents are usually asked to enter their BSN to ensure tax compliance. Expats without a BSN can still use brokers like eToro, as long as they verify their identity and have a European bank account.

How to Open a Broker Account in the Netherlands: Step-by-Step

Opening a broker account in the Netherlands is fast, digital, and requires only basic documentation. Whether you’re investing through a Dutch platform like DEGIRO or an international option like eToro, the onboarding process is almost identical. Most brokers support SEPA transfers, accept foreign residents, and operate fully under EU financial regulation.

Account setup steps:

1. Choose a broker
2. Register an account
3. Verify your identity
4. Submit tax and residency details
5. Connect a bank account
6. Fund your account
7. Start trading

1. Choose a broker

Select a platform that matches your trading style. Look at fee structure, asset availability (stocks, ETFs, crypto), platform language, mobile access, and tax documentation. DEGIRO suits long-term investors; eToro supports both social trading and multi-asset portfolios; BUX Zero is beginner-friendly and commission-free.

2. Register an account

Create an account via the broker’s website or app. You’ll need to enter your email, create a password, and confirm your country of residence. Some brokers may ask upfront whether you’re a Dutch tax resident.

3. Verify your identity

Upload a valid government-issued ID (passport or EU national ID card). You’ll also need to provide a recent proof of address, such as a utility bill or bank statement dated within the last 3 months. Verification is mandatory before any trading can begin, as required under MiFID II.

4. Submit tax and residency details

Dutch residents must provide their BSN (Burgerservicenummer). Expats or foreign investors typically enter a foreign Tax Identification Number (TIN) instead. Some brokers also ask for a short declaration about your investment knowledge and experience.

5. Connect a bank account

You must link a SEPA-compatible bank account in your name. Most brokers don’t allow third-party transfers. This account will be used for funding, withdrawals, and account verification.

6. Fund your account

Transfer funds via bank transfer, iDEAL (if supported), or other available payment methods. Minimum deposit amounts vary: eToro requires $50, while DEGIRO has no fixed minimum. Some platforms offer instant funding via payment providers.

7. Start trading

Once your account is verified and funded, you can begin buying stocks, ETFs, cryptocurrencies, or other instruments. Many platforms also offer demo accounts for practice. Real-time charts, watchlists, and portfolio tracking tools are typically included.

Types of Brokers in the Netherlands

There are three main types of brokers available to investors in the Netherlands. Each serves a different type of user, from active traders to passive investors. While many features overlap, the pricing models, platform design, and investment options can vary significantly.

Main broker types:

1. Online brokers / trading platforms
2. Banks with brokerage services
3. Automated investing platforms (robo-advisors)

1. Online brokers / trading platforms

These are low-cost, mobile-first platforms that allow you to trade stocks, ETFs, crypto, and sometimes derivatives. They’re often called neo-brokers or discount brokers in other markets.

Examples include DEGIRO, BUX Zero, eToro, and Trade Republic. These platforms focus on low fees, ease of use, and broad asset access — making them ideal for both beginners and experienced investors.

2. Banks with brokerage services

Dutch banks like ING, ABN AMRO, and Rabobank offer trading accounts directly through their banking platforms. These are known internationally as bank-affiliated brokers or full-service brokers, though in the Netherlands they are mostly used for basic investing.

They tend to charge higher fees and offer fewer advanced features but appeal to users who prefer everything under one financial institution.

3. Automated investing platforms (robo-advisors)

Platforms like Brand New Day, Semmie, and Meesman offer passive investment options where your money is automatically allocated into a diversified portfolio.

Known globally as robo-advisors, these platforms are ideal for hands-off investors focused on long-term growth.

They typically offer lower fees than traditional banks and include automatic rebalancing and tax optimization features.

Trading Platforms and User Experience

The broker’s platform is your main interface for investing. A clean, responsive design and logical navigation make a big difference—especially if you’re trading frequently or managing multiple assets. In the Netherlands, most platforms are designed for mobile-first use, with varying levels of depth depending on the broker.

International brokers like eToro and Trade Republic have optimized their apps for simplicity and ease of use. In contrast, DEGIRO offers a more technical interface geared toward experienced investors who prioritize detailed order types, market data, and custom watchlists. Some advanced brokers also offer downloadable desktop platforms, but these are typically overkill for beginners or long-term ETF investors.

Platform types

Most brokers in the Netherlands support browser-based access and mobile apps. Mobile-first platforms dominate the space, and many users prefer them for quick access and streamlined design. For example, eToro allows full portfolio control through its mobile app, while BUX Zero was designed primarily for mobile from the beginning.

Web platforms like DEGIRO’s WebTrader offer more detailed charting and order control. However, they tend to lack some of the sleek, modern UI elements seen in newer apps. Desktop trading software is rare among Dutch brokers, except at institutions like Saxo Bank which targets more active traders with complex strategies.

Language and accessibility

Expats and international users should always check language options before choosing a platform. Most Dutch brokers support full English functionality across apps, websites, and documentation. eToro in particular offers a multilingual interface, tax summaries, and live chat support in English—making it ideal for non-Dutch residents.

Even local brokers like DEGIRO and BUX Zero include English as a default option. However, some smaller robo-advisors or bank-linked investment portals may default to Dutch for statements or onboarding instructions. If you’re not fluent, this can cause unnecessary friction.

Features relevant to expats and international users

For non-Dutch residents, ease of onboarding and cross-border support are essential. Brokers like eToro allow account creation without a BSN number, as long as identity is verified and a SEPA bank account is provided. This flexibility makes a difference if you’re new to the country or operating from abroad.

Useful platform features to look for include:

• Full English interface and documentation
• Access without Dutch residency
• Demo accounts for practice
• Clear tax reporting (annual summaries)
• Instant funding and mobile withdrawals
• Multi-asset support (stocks, ETFs, crypto)

Expats should also pay attention to customer support quality. A broker that offers responsive English-language assistance can save time and reduce errors—especially when it comes to tax reporting or compliance questions.

What You Can Trade in the Netherlands

Dutch and international brokers offer access to a broad range of asset classes suitable for long-term investing, short-term trading, and everything in between. What’s available depends on the platform, but most regulated brokers in the Netherlands cover the key instruments needed for a diversified portfolio.

Common asset types:

• Stocks
• ETFs and mutual funds
• Cryptocurrencies
• Bonds and fixed income
• Derivatives (options, CFDs, futures)

Stocks

All major brokers in the Netherlands offer access to listed stocks from Europe and North America. This includes Dutch companies on Euronext Amsterdam as well as large-cap names from the NYSE and NASDAQ. Trading fees, real-time quotes, and order types may vary depending on the platform. For example, DEGIRO provides low-cost stock trading with delayed quotes by default, while eToro offers commission-free real-time stock trades for most users.

Dividend-paying stocks and fractional shares are also available at select brokers. Trade Republic and eToro both support fractional investing, which is useful for building diversified portfolios with limited capital.

ETFs and mutual funds

Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are widely available across Dutch brokers and are a popular choice for cost-efficient diversification. Platforms like BUX Zero and DEGIRO offer zero-commission ETF purchases under certain conditions, often tied to specific fund providers. Mutual funds are less commonly supported, except at traditional banks or full-service brokers like ABN AMRO.

Be aware that some US-domiciled ETFs may be restricted due to EU PRIIPs regulations, especially on platforms without simplified prospectus support. Look for brokers that offer European-domiciled ETF alternatives if this applies.

Cryptocurrencies

Crypto access in the Netherlands varies by broker. eToro offers direct trading of popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana, all within the same investment account. BUX Zero also supports crypto via a separate app, BUX Crypto. On the other hand, brokers like DEGIRO do not offer direct crypto trading, though crypto-related ETFs or ETPs may be available.

It’s important to check whether crypto holdings are custodial or derivative-based, and whether transfers to wallets are supported.

Bonds and fixed income products

While less popular among retail investors, bonds are available on platforms like DEGIRO and Saxo Bank. These include government bonds, corporate bonds, and ETFs that track fixed income indices. Traditional banks may offer bond products but often with high minimum investments and limited liquidity.

For conservative investors, bond ETFs are a more accessible entry point with lower risk exposure and daily liquidity.

Derivatives (Options, CFDs, Futures)

Access to derivatives is limited to certain platforms. DEGIRO offers options trading on European exchanges, while eToro provides exposure to CFDs (contracts for difference) on stocks, indices, and commodities. These products are leveraged and not suitable for beginners without risk experience.

Platforms offering derivatives will usually require an additional suitability test during onboarding. Be sure to review trading conditions carefully, as overnight fees and margin requirements can vary widely.

Broker Fees and Cost Structure

Fees vary significantly between brokers in the Netherlands, and choosing the wrong platform can eat into your returns—especially if you trade frequently or hold foreign assets. Some brokers advertise commission-free trading, but they may charge in other areas such as currency conversion, withdrawal fees, or inactivity penalties. Always look at the full cost structure, not just the trading fees.

Below is a comparison of key fees across popular brokers available in the Netherlands:

Broker	Stock Trading Fees	ETF Fees	FX Conversion Fee	Inactivity Fee	Withdrawal Fee	Notes
eToro	$0 (commission-free)	$0 on most ETFs	0.50% on non-USD assets	$10/month after 12 mo.	$5 per withdrawal	Multi-asset, supports crypto & CFDs
DEGIRO	From €1 + exchange fee	€0 on selected ETFs	0.25% currency handling	None	Free	Best for EU stock and ETF investors
BUX Zero	€0 (market orders only)	€0 (selected ETFs)	0.25% conversion	None	Free	Limited order types, mobile-only
Trade Republic	€1 per trade	€1 per ETF trade	0.15% currency spread	None	Free	ETF savings plans available
Saxo Bank NL	From €3 to €10+	Varies	0.25%–1.00% tiered FX	€100/year if inactive	Free	More advanced platform with wide access

Besides trading commissions, consider hidden or indirect costs.

• Currency conversion fees apply if you trade assets in USD, GBP, or other non-EUR currencies. eToro, for example, operates in USD.
• Inactivity fees can affect passive investors. eToro charges $10/month after 12 months of no login.
• ETF plans: DEGIRO and Trade Republic both offer selected ETFs with zero commission under specific conditions, ideal for long-term investors.

Make sure to compare all relevant fees based on how often you trade, which assets you buy, and whether you’re investing in EUR or foreign currencies.

Taxes for Investors in the Netherlands

Investing through a Dutch or foreign broker comes with tax obligations that depend on your residency status. In the Netherlands, capital gains are not taxed directly. Instead, private investors are subject to the Box 3 wealth tax, which is based on the value of your total assets at the start of each calendar year.

This system applies to Dutch residents, including most expats, but not to non-residents investing from abroad. The broker you use—Dutch or international—can impact how easy it is to report your holdings correctly.

Box 3 wealth tax (Vermogensbelasting)

Box 3 assumes a fictional return on your total net assets (bank accounts, stocks, ETFs, crypto, etc.) and taxes that assumed return at a fixed rate. For 2025, the tax-free threshold is around €57,000 per individual, or €114,000 for fiscal partners. If your assets exceed this amount, a progressive tax rate is applied.

The calculation is based on:

• Your total taxable assets on January 1st each year
• Minus deductible liabilities (e.g. loans)
• A fixed return assumption that increases with asset size
• A tax rate of approx. 34% on the assumed return

Your broker doesn’t report this automatically—you must declare it yourself via the annual Dutch tax return (belastingaangifte).

Capital gains and dividends

The Netherlands does not tax capital gains on regular investment accounts. If you sell shares at a profit, there’s no direct tax. However, dividends are taxed at source, usually at 15%, which may be automatically withheld by the broker.

For Dutch-listed stocks and EU ETFs, this tax is often handled automatically. For US stocks or ETFs held via eToro or DEGIRO, foreign dividend tax may be withheld (typically 15%–30%). In many cases, this amount can be partially reclaimed or credited via your Dutch tax return, depending on tax treaties.

Using Dutch vs. foreign brokers

Dutch brokers like DEGIRO and BUX Zero may simplify reporting by integrating your BSN and providing overviews tailored for Box 3. Foreign brokers like eToro do not report directly to Dutch authorities, so you’ll need to manually enter balances and dividend summaries into your tax return.

If you’re a Dutch resident, make sure your broker provides:

• Annual account statements (preferably in EUR)
• Dividend breakdowns
• End-of-year balance for Box 3 declaration

Comparison of online brokers 2025

Choosing the right broker depends on your trading needs, budget, and preferred asset types. Some platforms are optimized for low-cost ETF investing, while others offer multi-asset access, crypto trading, or advanced charting tools. Below is an updated comparison of the most popular brokers used by investors in the Netherlands in 2025.

Broker	Key Strengths	Weaknesses	Best For
eToro	Commission-free stocks, crypto access, multi-language support	FX fees, $5 withdrawal, inactivity fee	Expats and users wanting social trading
DEGIRO	Very low fees, wide EU stock access, strong reputation	No crypto, limited real-time data	Cost-focused EU investors
BUX Zero	Commission-free ETFs and stocks, mobile-friendly	Limited asset selection, few order types	Beginners and passive investors
Trade Republic	€1 trades, ETF savings plans, mobile-first	Fewer advanced tools, limited product depth	Long-term ETF investors
Saxo Bank NL	Advanced tools, wide range of products	Higher fees, platform complexity	Active traders and professionals
Interactive Brokers	Global access, professional platform	Steep learning curve, complex UI	Experienced international investors

eToro

eToro stands out for its zero-commission stock trading, integrated crypto trading, and unique social trading features. It’s fully available in the Netherlands and offers a user-friendly mobile platform, ideal for both new and international users.

However, eToro charges a 0.5% currency conversion fee and a $5 withdrawal fee, which should be considered by EUR-based investors.

DEGIRO

DEGIRO is one of the most popular brokers in the Netherlands, known for its extremely low fees and access to global exchanges. While it doesn’t support crypto, it offers a wide range of stocks, ETFs, and bonds. DEGIRO is regulated in the Netherlands and is particularly strong in tax reporting for Dutch residents, including Box 3 information.

BUX Zero

A true mobile-first broker, BUX Zero targets beginners with an intuitive app and commission-free trades on selected stocks and ETFs. It’s best suited for simple buy-and-hold investing.

Advanced investors may find it lacking in terms of research tools, order types, and asset variety.

Trade Republic

Originally launched in Germany, Trade Republic is now available to Dutch users and offers €1 stock and ETF trades. It supports recurring ETF savings plans, making it ideal for passive investors.

The app is clean and modern, though not well suited for active day traders due to limited tools.

Saxo Bank NL

Saxo Bank NL provides access to a vast range of instruments, including stocks, ETFs, forex, options, and futures. The platform includes advanced research, real-time pricing, and professional-grade tools.

However, fees are higher and the platform is more complex—more suited for experienced users.

Interactive Brokers

Interactive Brokers offers unmatched access to global markets, multiple account types, and powerful tools. The platform is ideal for professional or high-volume traders, though the user interface may be overwhelming for beginners. Fees are competitive, especially for international stock trading.

Switching to a New Broker

Switching brokers in the Netherlands is possible and often straightforward, especially if both platforms operate under EU regulation. Whether you’re moving to save on fees, gain access to more products, or simplify your tax reporting, knowing the process in advance can help you avoid unnecessary delays or mistakes.

Most brokers accept portfolio transfers, also known as position transfers, which allow you to move your assets without selling them. However, not all brokers support inbound or outbound transfers for all asset types, and fees may apply.

How portfolio transfers work

The typical transfer process involves initiating a request with your new broker, who then coordinates with your current broker to migrate the holdings. You will need to provide your current account number, asset list, and in some cases, ISINs or tickers of the securities.

The timeline for transfers varies depending on the brokers involved. For example, moving assets from DEGIRO to Trade Republic may take 5–10 business days, while cross-border transfers to or from Interactive Brokers could take longer, especially if non-EU assets are involved.

Some brokers only support cash transfers, in which case you’ll need to sell your positions first, transfer the funds, and re-buy the assets manually. This could trigger tax consequences, especially with dividend-paying or long-term positions.

Typical transfer time and costs

Transfer time usually ranges from 5 to 15 business days, depending on the platform and asset types. Delays are more common with illiquid holdings, foreign exchanges, or outdated account details.

Fees vary widely:

• DEGIRO charges around €10–€50 per ISIN for outbound transfers
• eToro does not currently support inbound portfolio transfers (cash only)
• Saxo Bank supports full and partial transfers, with varying costs depending on volume

Always check the fee schedule for both your current broker and your new broker before initiating a move.

Things to watch out for

Before switching brokers, consider the following:

• Product availability: Not all platforms support the same ETFs or stocks
• Currency handling: Some brokers convert holdings to EUR on transfer
• Tax timing: Selling assets may trigger gains reportable under your current tax year
• Pending dividends: These may take longer to arrive after transfer

If possible, transfer after dividend payouts are complete and avoid switching right before end-of-year tax reporting.

Investor Protection and Regulation

Brokers operating in the Netherlands must comply with strict EU financial regulations designed to protect retail investors. Whether you’re using a Dutch broker like DEGIRO or an international platform such as eToro, your funds and investments are safeguarded under regulatory frameworks enforced by both Dutch and EU authorities.

Understanding who regulates your broker, what protections are in place, and how disputes are handled is essential—especially when dealing with large sums or long-term portfolios.

Regulatory authority

In the Netherlands, the two main regulatory bodies are:

• AFM (Autoriteit Financiële Markten) – Oversees market conduct, broker licenses, and investor protection
• DNB (De Nederlandsche Bank) – Monitors financial stability and capital requirements for institutions

All brokers offering investment services in the Netherlands must either hold a Dutch license or operate under EU passporting rights via MiFID II. This means platforms like Trade Republic (licensed in Germany) or eToro (licensed in Cyprus) can legally serve Dutch clients.

Before using a broker, verify that it is registered with the AFM register or licensed within the EEA under MiFID.

Deposit protection schemes

Investor funds are protected through segregated accounts, which means your money is held separately from the broker’s operational funds. This prevents loss in case of bankruptcy.

In addition, you may be covered by a national investor compensation scheme, depending on the broker’s home license:

• Dutch brokers: Protected by the Beleggerscompensatiestelsel – up to €20,000 per investor
• EU brokers: Covered by equivalent EU schemes (e.g. eToro via ICF Cyprus with €20,000 coverage)

Cash balances held with a partner bank may also fall under bank deposit guarantees, such as the €100,000 Dutch deposit guarantee scheme if the funds are placed with a local bank.

What happens if a broker fails?

If a broker becomes insolvent, your investments are still yours—as long as they’re held in segregated accounts. The compensation scheme steps in only if the broker fails to return your assets or if fraud or mismanagement is involved.

The actual recovery process may take weeks or months, depending on the legal structure and jurisdiction. This is why using regulated EU brokers is critical.

Complaint and dispute handling

If you have a problem with your broker—such as unauthorized charges, execution errors, or failed withdrawals—you should first contact their customer support and file a formal complaint.

If unresolved, you can escalate the issue to:

• The broker’s regulatory body (AFM or their EU counterpart)
• An alternative dispute resolution body, if applicable
• Local financial ombudsman services, where available

Keep documentation of all communication and screenshots of your account, especially if it involves money movements or transaction records.

How to Choose the Right Broker in the Netherlands

Choosing the right broker depends on your investment goals, trading habits, tax status, and platform preferences. With multiple low-cost and mobile-first brokers available to Dutch residents and expats, the best option isn’t always the one with zero commissions—it’s the one that fits your actual usage pattern.

Before opening an account, compare brokers based on the following criteria.

Fees and pricing structure

Don’t just look at headline trading commissions. Consider currency conversion fees, ETF plan limitations, withdrawal costs, and inactivity fees. For example, eToro offers commission-free stocks but charges 0.5% on EUR-to-USD conversions and a $5 withdrawal fee. In contrast, DEGIRO has low trading fees but may charge for specific ETF or bond transfers.

If you’re a passive investor making only a few trades per year, a platform with no inactivity fees and simple ETF access may be ideal. Frequent traders should prioritize tight spreads, low FX costs, and fast execution.

Access to products and markets

Make sure your broker offers the assets you want to trade—whether that’s US tech stocks, Dutch dividend shares, global ETFs, or cryptocurrencies. Platforms like eToro offer a broad mix (stocks, crypto, CFDs), while BUX Zero keeps it simple with a smaller stock universe and no derivatives.

Also check for fractional shares, pre-market access, or support for non-listed funds if relevant to your strategy.

Platform usability and interface

A fast, intuitive platform can save time and reduce errors. Some brokers like Trade Republic and BUX Zero offer clean, mobile-first apps with limited features. Others, like Saxo Bank, deliver full-featured trading terminals with advanced order types and charting.

Test the demo version if available, and consider how comfortable you are navigating the platform in your preferred language.

Tax handling and reporting

For Dutch residents, proper Box 3 tax documentation is important. Brokers like DEGIRO are well-integrated with the local tax system and offer downloadable summaries. eToro, while popular, requires manual entry of your portfolio data into the Dutch tax return.

If you’re an expat without a BSN, prioritize platforms that allow account creation without Dutch tax ID—some foreign brokers only require standard KYC.

Customer service and language support

Efficient, English-speaking support is crucial, especially during funding delays, verification issues, or tax season. eToro offers 24/5 live chat, while others rely on ticket-based email support. Look for brokers that clearly list their support hours, contact channels, and documentation in English.

What to prioritize

Your priorities should match your investor profile:

• Long-term, low-cost investing: Look at DEGIRO or BUX Zero
• Multi-asset trading with crypto and social features: Consider eToro
• Advanced tools and broad access: Choose Saxo Bank or Interactive Brokers

Always read the broker’s fee schedule, platform limitations, and asset list before funding your account.