How to Open a Bank Account in Germany for Expats

Opening a bank account is one of the first essential steps for expats in Germany. Whether you’ve just moved to Germany or are planning your relocation, you’ll need a bank account in Germany to receive your salary, pay rent, and manage daily expenses. In fact, life in Germany quickly highlights the importance of financial readiness.

For those seeking long-term residence, it’s important to know that most banks in Germany offer various account options tailored for newcomers. Getting an account is straightforward, provided you meet the requirements.

Germany’s banking landscape includes traditional German banks like Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank, and modern mobile banks in Germany such as N26 and Wise. This guide explains how to open a bank account, the types of bank accounts available, and what expats should consider when choosing the best German bank.

What do you need to open a bank account in Germany?

To open a German bank account, expats must provide a valid passport and, in most cases, a German residence permit or visa. Additionally, banks require a local residential address, which must be registered with the municipal authorities (Einwohnermeldeamt) in order to obtain a confirmation document known as the Meldebescheinigung. This is a standard requirement for most traditional banks operating in Germany.

Documents required for opening a bank account

The standard documentation required includes:

• Valid passport or national ID card (for EU citizens)
• Proof of registration (Meldebescheinigung), issued by the local Residents’ Registration Office (Einwohnermeldeamt)
• Residence permit or entry visa (for non-EU citizens)
• Proof of income or employment (e.g., employment contract, payslip, or university enrolment certificate if applying for a student account)
• Completed application form (provided by the bank, online or in person)

Some banks may request additional documents such as a SCHUFA credit report (for credit-related services) or a tax identification number (Steuer-ID) after registration with the tax office.

Do you need a German address?

Yes, in almost all cases, a registered German residential address is required. This is formally documented through a Meldebescheinigung, which you receive after registering your address at the local Einwohnermeldeamt. This document serves as proof of residence and is one of the most critical requirements for opening a current account (Girokonto).

Exceptions may apply for digital banks such as N26 or Wise, which allow some flexibility for newly arrived expats, including those who have not yet completed the residence registration process.

What identification is needed for expats?

Expats must present a valid passport as their primary form of identification. Non-EU/EEA nationals are also required to show a valid visa or residence permit. In cases where the bank requires identity verification remotely, this is usually done via PostIdent (in-person verification at a Deutsche Post branch) or VideoIdent (a video-based process accepted under BaFin regulations).

EU/EEA citizens may open accounts using a national identity card, without needing a visa. However, regardless of nationality, the bank must be able to verify your identity and legal residence status in Germany in accordance with Section 4 of the German Money Laundering Act (Geldwäschegesetz).

What are the types of bank accounts available in Germany?

Germany offers several types of bank accounts, each serving a different purpose. The most common is the current account (Girokonto), used for daily financial transactions such as receiving salaries and paying bills. Other common types include savings accounts (Sparkonto) for long-term deposits, student accounts with reduced fees for enrolled learners, and blocked accounts (Sperrkonto) required for certain visa categories, such as international students or job seekers.

Current accounts vs. savings accounts

A current account is the standard account for everyday use. It allows for deposits, withdrawals, online banking, debit card use, and direct debits. In contrast, a savings account is designed for accumulating money over time and may offer interest, although rates are currently low. Savings accounts typically do not include a debit card or direct debit features.

Student accounts for expats in Germany

Most major German banks offer student accounts (Studentenkonto) to individuals under a certain age (usually under 27 or 30) and enrolled at a recognised institution. These accounts often have no monthly maintenance fees and may include additional benefits such as free ATM withdrawals or travel insurance. Proof of enrolment (Immatrikulationsbescheinigung) is required to open one.

Blocked accounts for international students

International students applying for a student visa must prove sufficient financial means, which is done through a blocked account (Sperrkonto). This account holds a fixed amount (currently set at €11,208 for one year, under the Federal Foreign Office) and limits monthly withdrawals to ensure financial stability while studying. Only providers approved by German authorities (e.g., Expatrio, Coracle, Fintiba) should be used.

How to choose the best German bank for expats?

The best bank depends on your personal needs. Traditional banks offer stability and in-person service, while digital banks offer ease of access and fast setup. When choosing a bank, consider language support, monthly fees, ATM availability, and whether you need branch access. Expats often benefit from English-speaking support and low-fee international transfers.

Factors to consider when selecting a bank

Important considerations include:

• Availability of English-language support
• Monthly account fees and minimum balance requirements
• Number of accessible ATMs (especially fee-free ones)
• Online and mobile banking quality
• International transfer options and costs
• Customer service availability

Comparison of top German banks for expats

• Deutsche Bank: Reliable, with international reach; offers English-language support and student accounts.
• Commerzbank: Free current account with minimum deposit; good online banking.
• DKB: Online bank with no monthly fees; popular for travel and foreign transfers.
• N26: Fully digital bank; app-based with strong expat features and no physical branches.
• Wise (formerly TransferWise): Excellent for managing multiple currencies and low-cost international transfers, but not a traditional current account.

Benefits of digital banks in Germany

Digital banks offer fast account setup, mobile-first interfaces, low or no fees, and support in English. N26 provides German IBANs, free Mastercard debit cards, and real-time notifications. Wise excels in multi-currency accounts, making it ideal for frequent international transfers. Both are fully licensed and regulated under EU financial authorities.

Can you open a bank account online in Germany?

Many banks, especially online banks like N26, DKB, and Wise, allow account opening fully online. This is convenient for expats who may not yet have a registered address in Germany or prefer to avoid paperwork at physical branches.

Steps to open a German bank account online

The online process generally involves:

1. Filling out an application on the bank’s website
2. Verifying your identity via VideoIdent (video call with ID check) or PostIdent at a Deutsche Post branch
3. Uploading required documents (passport, visa/residence permit, proof of address)
4. Receiving confirmation and gaining account access

Bank verification process for foreign residents in Germany

Non-EU nationals are required to verify their identity using a valid passport and residence permit. VideoIdent is commonly used and must be completed in real time with a secure internet connection. The process ensures compliance with German [Anti-Money Laundering regulations (Geldwäschegesetz).](https://stripe.com/resources/more/money-laundering-act#:~:text=The+Money+Laundering+Act+(GwG,be+traced+by+the+authorities.)

Are online banks reliable for expats in Germany ?

Yes, reputable online banks in Germany are secure and regulated by BaFin (Federal Financial Supervisory Authority). Providers like N26 and Wise comply with European banking regulations and offer customer support, encryption, and multi-factor authentication. However, online banks may lack some traditional services like in-person consultations or cheque processing.

P.S. Also, check out our guide on opening a bank account as an expat in France

What are the costs associated with a German bank account?

The cost of maintaining a bank account in Germany depends largely on the type of account and the provider. Traditional banks often apply a fixed monthly maintenance fee, typically between €4 and €10. However, this fee can sometimes be waived if specific conditions are met, such as maintaining a minimum monthly deposit or being a student.

Digital banks, by contrast, often advertise fee-free accounts, especially for basic banking services, but they may charge for premium features or non-standard services. Additional costs may arise from ATM withdrawals outside the bank’s network, international wire transfers, overdrafts, paper account statements, or branch-based services. Understanding the fee structure before opening an account is essential to avoid hidden or unexpected charges.

Monthly fees and charges

Most German banks impose monthly account maintenance fees unless exemptions apply. For example, Commerzbank offers a free current account only if the account holder deposits at least €700 per month. Otherwise, a standard fee applies. Deutsche Bank and Sparkasse also follow a tiered model where fees depend on the type of account and services used. These fees are set out clearly in the bank’s published fee schedule (Preis- und Leistungsverzeichnis), which is legally required to be made available to customers.

In general, online and mobile accounts tend to be more affordable than traditional branch-based accounts due to lower operational costs.

Free bank accounts for students and expats in Germany

Banks such as DKB, N26, and Commerzbank offer free current accounts for students and, in some cases, young professionals under a specific age. To qualify, students must present a valid proof of enrolment (Immatrikulationsbescheinigung) from a recognised German institution. These accounts often come with no maintenance fees, free debit cards, and no charges for online banking or domestic SEPA transfers, making them ideal for international students or expats starting out in Germany.

Expats employed full-time may also benefit from zero-fee accounts if their monthly income meets the bank's minimum deposit requirement.

Hidden costs to watch out for when opening a bank account as expat in Germany

Despite some accounts being advertised as free, hidden costs can arise from common banking activities. These include fees for withdrawing cash from third-party ATMs, making SWIFT transfers outside the SEPA area, receiving paper account statements by post, exceeding overdraft limits, or using branch services in banks that favour digital platforms.

Overdraft interest rates (Dispozinsen) in Germany are relatively high—often exceeding 8–10%—and may apply even for small negative balances. It's important to regularly monitor your account and stay within your financial limits. Always review the bank’s full pricing list and ask about service fees before committing to an account.

How to manage your bank account while living in Germany?

Once your account is open, managing it is straightforward with the tools provided. Most banks offer secure online banking portals and mobile apps, allowing you to check your balance, make SEPA transfers, manage standing orders (Daueraufträge), and receive real-time transaction alerts. These tools are available in both German and, increasingly, in English—especially at banks serving expats.

You will also receive a Girokarte (debit card) for in-store and ATM use. Contactless payments and mobile payment systems (such as Apple Pay and Google Pay) are supported by most modern banks. For international transactions, it’s often more economical to use fintech services like Wise, which offer favourable exchange rates and low transaction fees.

Using debit cards and online banking

Debit cards are issued as standard and can be used across Germany and within the EU. While cash is still widely used, contactless and card payments are becoming increasingly accepted—even in small shops and restaurants. Your card will allow for ATM withdrawals, PIN-protected purchases, and online payments.

Online banking systems are typically secure and comply with EU PSD2 regulations. You can initiate transfers using your IBAN and manage direct debits or recurring payments through the online interface. Many banks also offer budgeting tools and financial summaries to help manage monthly spending.

Understanding account details and statements

German banks are required to provide monthly account statements (Kontoauszüge), which document all account activity. These can be accessed electronically through your online banking portal or sent by post upon request. Statements serve as proof of income or financial history, often needed for visa renewals, tenancy applications, or tax filings. Understanding your transaction codes and checking for errors or irregularities is part of responsible financial management.

How to withdraw money and make transfers

Withdrawing money from your bank’s own ATMs is free of charge, but using ATMs from other banks may incur fees ranging from €2 to €5 per withdrawal. Some banks are part of larger ATM networks (such as Cash Group or CashPool), which allow free withdrawals across multiple partner banks.

SEPA transfers are the standard method for sending money within Germany and the EU. They are usually free and completed within one business day. For transfers outside the EU or in non-euro currencies, use SWIFT transfers or consider third-party providers for lower fees and better exchange rates.

What to do if you face issues with your bank account?

If you encounter problems such as frozen accounts, rejected transactions, or online banking errors, the first step is to contact your bank's customer service. Most banks offer English-speaking support via phone, secure messaging, or email. Keep a record of all communication and reference any support case numbers for follow-up.

In serious cases—such as suspected fraud or identity theft—report the issue immediately and request a temporary block on the account. If your complaint is unresolved, you may escalate the issue to the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) or use the services of a consumer arbitration board (Schlichtungsstelle).

Common problems expats face with German banks

Expats often face challenges with document requirements, unfamiliar banking terms, or customer service limited to German. Difficulties can also arise from blocked accounts not meeting embassy specifications, or from accounts being closed due to non-residency.

Another frequent issue is misunderstanding how overdrafts work—banks may allow account holders to go below zero, but this is considered a loan and interest is charged. Language barriers can further complicate communication, so selecting a bank with English-language support is advisable.

How to contact customer service effectively

When contacting customer support, use the secure internal messaging system provided in your online banking dashboard whenever possible. Be clear, concise, and include your account number, a description of the issue, and any relevant screenshots or transaction IDs.

If calling by phone, be prepared for identity verification questions. For urgent issues, especially those affecting card security or access, contact the bank’s emergency helpline immediately. In-person visits may resolve issues faster if your bank maintains local branches.

Resolving blocked account issues

Blocked accounts (Sperrkonten) are often used to satisfy visa requirements, especially for students. If the account is blocked incorrectly or if your embassy does not accept your account provider, contact the blocked account provider’s customer service immediately and request written clarification.

Ensure that all documents submitted to the bank and the embassy are aligned. If delays or rejections occur, escalate the matter via the provider’s complaints procedure and, if necessary, seek help from the German mission abroad. Use only account providers recognised by the Federal Foreign Office, to avoid compliance issues during the visa process.

FAQs

Can I open a bank account in Germany without a residence permit?

Most traditional banks require proof of residence, including a valid visa or residence permit. However, some online banks like N26 may allow account setup during the early stages of relocation, before full residence registration is completed.

Do I need to register my address before opening a bank account?

Yes, in most cases. You must provide a Meldebescheinigung (proof of registration) from the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt). This is a standard requirement for opening a Girokonto (current account).

What is the best type of account for everyday use?

A Girokonto (current account) is best for daily banking. It allows you to receive your salary, make payments, and withdraw cash. Most expats open this type of account as their primary financial tool.

What is a blocked account, and who needs it?

A Sperrkonto (blocked account) is required for certain visa applicants, especially students and job seekers. It proves financial self-sufficiency and restricts monthly withdrawals. Only use providers approved by the Federal Foreign Office.

Can I open a bank account online from abroad?

Yes. Online banks such as N26 and DKB allow you to apply remotely, complete identity verification via video call, and access your account before arrival. However, not all banks support international onboarding.

Are online banks in Germany safe for expats?

Yes. Reputable online banks like N26 and Wise are fully licensed and regulated by BaFin (Federal Financial Supervisory Authority). They offer secure encryption, identity verification, and multi-currency tools.

How much does a typical German bank account cost?

Traditional banks charge €4–€10 per month in maintenance fees. Some waive fees if a monthly deposit threshold (e.g. €700) is met. Student and digital accounts are often free but may include optional service fees.

What documents do I need to open a German bank account?

You usually need a valid passport, visa or residence permit, proof of address (Meldebescheinigung), and sometimes proof of income or enrolment. Requirements vary by bank and account type.

Can I use my German debit card across Europe?

Yes. Most German-issued debit cards (Girokarte or Mastercard) work throughout the EU. For non-EU use, ensure international access is activated and consider using Wise for favourable exchange rates.

What should I do if I have issues with my account?

Contact your bank’s customer service using their secure message system, email, or phone. If unresolved, escalate to the BaFin complaints office or the relevant Schlichtungsstelle (arbitration body).

How can I avoid hidden banking fees?

Review your bank’s full pricing list (Preis- und Leistungsverzeichnis) before opening an account. Watch for fees on ATM withdrawals outside your bank’s network, SWIFT transfers, overdrafts, and paper statements.