Myria and Unia are regularly contacted by civil society, social services and individuals about problems encountered by foreigners in accessing banking services. Foreigners have either not been able to open a (basic) bank account, or their bank account has been blocked, or they have not been able to obtain an appointment to open one. They are therefore excluded from society, since a bank account is essential to receive a salary, make purchases, pay rent, etc.

In this MyriaDoc, Myria explains the context of this issue and how anti-money laundering legislation is linked to legislation on access to basic banking services. Finally, it makes recommendations for the banking sector and the ministers concerned.

For further information, please read the Myriadoc (in French or in Dutch) above.