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Garanti BBVA Savings vs Instant Savings

How these two savings accounts stack up for expats in the Netherlands — compared on the numbers that actually matter, with a verdict based on the data.

Garanti BBVA Savings is the stronger pick for most expats.

  • Interest rate: 2.55% for 6 mo, then 1.55% vs 0.30%
Our pick

Garanti BBVA Savings

Dutch-registered bank (part of BBVA group) offering 1.55% standard rate with a 2.55% promo for the first 6 months. Solid option with DNB supervision.

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Instant Savings

German neobank with 0.30% on free plan, up to 2.00% on paid plans. Good app but free tier rate is disappointing compared to competitors.

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Side by side

Feature
Garanti BBVA Savings
Instant Savings
Interest rate
2.55% for 6 mo, then 1.55%
0.30%
Minimum deposit
None
None
Access to your money
Instant
Instant
Maximum deposit
€100,000
No limit
Deposit guarantee
Up to €100,000
Up to €100,000

Highlighted cells show the stronger option for each feature. Rates and fees are verified from provider sources; figures shown as of 2026.

Garanti BBVA Savings

What we like

  • 2.55% promotional rate for 6 months
  • Dutch-registered bank with DNB supervision
  • Full €100k deposit guarantee
  • No lock-up period

What to consider

  • Standard rate drops to 1.55% after promo
  • Less known brand in Netherlands
  • Basic online interface
  • Rate may change

Instant Savings

What we like

  • Excellent mobile app
  • German bank with EU guarantee
  • Easy account opening
  • Round-up savings features

What to consider

  • Low free tier rate (0.30%)
  • Best rate (2.00%) requires paid plan
  • Trade Republic beats it on rates
  • Customer service issues reported

Frequently asked

Is Garanti BBVA Savings or Instant Savings better for expats in the Netherlands?

Garanti BBVA Savings comes out ahead for most expats. Interest rate: 2.55% for 6 mo, then 1.55% vs 0.30%

Which has the higher interest rate, Garanti BBVA Savings or Instant Savings?

Garanti BBVA Savings pays more — 2.55% for 6 mo, then 1.55% versus 0.30%.

Are Garanti BBVA Savings and Instant Savings covered by the Dutch deposit guarantee?

Garanti BBVA Savings is covered (deposits protected up to €100,000). Instant Savings is covered up to €100,000.