Overview
The Netherlands provides a sophisticated regulatory framework for payment services, making it a highly attractive location for fintech and financial service providers. The regulatory environment is fully aligned with the European Union’s Payment Services Directive 2 (PSD2) and is supervised by the Dutch Central Bank (De Nederlandsche Bank – DNB), which ensures high standards of financial supervision and compliance.

Licenses Available

1. Payment Institution License: Companies offering payment services, such as money transfers, card payment processing, and electronic wallet services, must obtain this license from the DNB. Once licensed, payment institutions can benefit from EU passporting, allowing them to operate freely across the European Union.
2. Electronic Money Institution (EMI) License: Companies issuing electronic money, including prepaid cards and digital wallets, are required to obtain this license. Like the Payment Institution License, the EMI license enables passporting rights across the EU.
3. Small Payment Institution License: This option is available for smaller firms and startups. It allows the provision of payment services under specific thresholds, with a lighter regulatory burden compared to full licenses.

Regulator: De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB)
The Dutch Central Bank (DNB) is the primary regulator for payment services in the Netherlands. The DNB ensures compliance with domestic legislation as well as EU-wide regulations, such as PSD2 and the Anti-Money Laundering Directives. Known for its rigorous regulatory oversight and transparency, the DNB fosters a secure financial environment, contributing to the Netherlands’ reputation as a leading financial hub in Europe.