Opening a bank account
A comprehensive guide for expats, students, and all newcomers
Step-by-Step Guide to Opening a Bank Account

Step 1: Decide on the Type of Account
In Germany, there are several main types of bank accounts:
Girokonto (Current/Checking Account)
This is your main account for everyday transactions. Your salary (Gehalt) is paid into it, you use it to pay bills, and your cards are used for withdrawals and purchases in shops. Most accounts in Germany are Girokonten.
Sparkonto / Tagesgeldkonto (Savings Account)
An account for saving money and earning a small amount of interest. It is not suitable for daily transactions.
Sperrkonto (Blocked Account)
This is a special account used as proof of financial resources (Finanzierungsnachweis) for visa applications. It is commonly required for students. The key feature is that the money can only be withdrawn in monthly installments.

Step 2: Choose a Bank
There are two main types of banks: online banks (Direktbanken) and traditional branch banks (Filialbanken). The practical choice for newcomers in 2026 often comes down to N26, Deutsche Bank, Sparkasse, ING, or Commerzbank.
A. Online Banks (Recommended for most newcomers)
  • Examples: N26, Comdirect, DKB (Deutsche Kreditbank), ING.
  • Advantages: Often free (provided a minimum monthly income is deposited). The account opening process is fully online. They have convenient mobile apps, often in English (especially N26).
  • Key Feature (N26): N26 is particularly popular among expats as an account can be opened in about 8-10 minutes via the app, often without a German address registration (Anmeldung). You can always open a traditional bank account later. The free Standard plan includes 2 free ATM withdrawals per month in Germany.
  • Disadvantages: No physical branches for in-person support. Online-only banks like N26 do not issue a Girocard (also known as an EC card), which is accepted in many German supermarkets and smaller businesses.
B. Traditional Branch Banks
  • Examples: Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank, Sparkasse, Volksbank.
  • Advantages: In-person contact, ability to handle complex issues at a branch. They provide a sense of security, which is particularly important for large sums or mortgages. Sparkasse has the densest ATM network and offers in-person help.
  • Disadvantages: Often have a monthly fee (around €5-10). The account opening process can take longer, sometimes requiring an appointment. Less English support (especially in smaller Sparkasse branches).
C. Special Option: "Expat Banks"
  • Example: Commerzbank offers a "StartKonto" package specifically for newcomers. An account can be opened online by sending documents by post. It is a good compromise between an online bank and having branches. The StartKonto is free for young people up to age 28
Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents
The exact list may vary slightly by bank, but the basic set is usually the same.
Mandatory Documents:
  1. Valid passport (Reisepass). This is the primary identity document. A driving license is usually not accepted.
  2. Registration certificate (Anmeldebestätigung). This is the most important document after your passport. You receive it at the Bürgeramt (Citizens' Office) after renting accommodation and registering your address. Without it, opening an account with most banks is practically impossible. The Anmeldung is mandatory within 14 days of moving in, with a fine of up to €1,000 for late registration. Exception: Some online banks like N26 allow account opening without the Anmeldung.
  3. Residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis) / Visa. If you already have a residence permit card, it will be required. If you have just arrived and have a national visa (Type D) in your passport, it is often sufficient.
  4. Additional Documents (may be requested):
  • Proof of income / employment contract (Arbeitsvertrag). Required by some banks to confirm the source of income, especially for premium accounts or overdrafts.
  • Payslip (Lohnabrechnung).
  • Student ID (Studentenausweis), to open a free student account.
  • German tax ID (Steuer-Identifikationsnummer), which you receive automatically after the Anmeldung.
  • German mobile phone number, increasingly required for two-factor authentication.
Step 4: The Account Opening Process
Option 1: Opening an Account with an Online Bank (e.g., N26)
  1. Download the bank's app on your phone.
  2. Complete the online application form with your personal data (name, date and place of birth, nationality, German address).
  3. Identity verification (Postident or Videoident):
  • Videoident: You connect via a video chat, show your passport to the camera, and answer a few questions. The process takes 10-15 minutes.
  • Postident: You receive a form, go to a post office with it and your passport, where a staff member verifies your identity and sends the documents to the bank.
4 Signing the contract: The contract is sent electronically.
5 Receiving the card: The bank card will be sent to your home address by post within a few days. The PIN code is sent in a separate letter for security.

Option 2: Opening an Account with a Traditional Bank
  1. Book an appointment (Termin): Call the branch or book online via the website.
  2. Visit the branch: Come at the scheduled time with all original documents.
  3. Submit the application: A manager will help you fill out the application form on-site.
  4. Sign the documents: You sign the contract on the spot.
  5. Receiving the card and PIN: The card and PIN will usually be sent by post to your address within 1-2 weeks .
Next:
Activate your card: This is usually done at an ATM of the respective bank or directly through the mobile app.
Set up the mobile app and configure online banking: Download your bank's official app and follow the setup instructions to enable secure access to your account.
Provide your account details to your employer: To receive your salary, you will need to give your employer your IBAN (International Bank Account Number) and the bank's BIC/SWIFT code (though IBAN is often sufficient for transfers within Germany).
Set up automatic payments (Dauerauftrag or direct debit Lastschrift): These are very popular and practical payment methods in Germany, commonly used for rent, insurance, internet bills, and other recurring expenses.
Important Tips
  • N26 is often the fastest option for a first account, as it does not require an Anmeldung.
  • Start with an online bank if you don't have your Anmeldung yet, and open a traditional bank account later.
  • A German IBAN matters because many employers and landlords require a German account number for salary and standing order payments.
  • Watch out for the Girocard: The Mastercard or Visa debit cards from online banks are not accepted everywhere in Germany. A Girocard (formerly EC card) is the standard debit card format accepted at many German supermarkets, pharmacies, and smaller businesses.
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