Head to head · 2026
Garanti BBVA Savings vs Welcome 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.
Our verdict
Welcome Savings is the stronger pick for most expats.
- Interest rate: 3.00% for 3 mo, then 1.90% vs 2.55% for 6 mo, then 1.55%
- Maximum deposit: €1,000,000 vs €100,000
Garanti BBVA
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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Openbank
Our pickWelcome Savings
Best promotional rate in the Netherlands: 3.00% for 3 months on up to €1 million. After promo, standard rate of 1.90% which is still competitive.
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Side by side
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
Welcome Savings
What we like
- 3.00% welcome rate for 3 months
- No minimum deposit
- Up to €1 million covered
- EU deposit guarantee (Spain)
What to consider
- Rate drops to 1.90% after promo
- Spanish bank (Santander subsidiary)
- Customer service can be slow
- App not as polished as Dutch banks
Frequently asked
Is Garanti BBVA Savings or Welcome Savings better for expats in the Netherlands?
Welcome Savings comes out ahead for most expats. Interest rate: 3.00% for 3 mo, then 1.90% vs 2.55% for 6 mo, then 1.55%
Which has the higher interest rate, Garanti BBVA Savings or Welcome Savings?
Welcome Savings pays more — 3.00% for 3 mo, then 1.90% versus 2.55% for 6 mo, then 1.55%.
Are Garanti BBVA Savings and Welcome Savings covered by the Dutch deposit guarantee?
Garanti BBVA Savings is covered (deposits protected up to €100,000). Welcome Savings is covered up to €100,000.