Expat guide
Bank Account in Germany: Complete Guide for Expats
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You need a German Girokonto for salary, rent, and insurance — compare online and branch banks and open an account as a foreigner.
Why Do You Need a German Bank Account?
A Girokonto (current account) is essential for daily life in Germany. Your employer deposits salary into it, landlords expect rent via SEPA transfer, and your health insurer debits premiums automatically.
Most traditional banks require Anmeldung first — they need your Meldebescheinigung (registration certificate). Online banks are often more flexible for newcomers without an existing Schufa score.
Two main paths:
- Online bank — open via app, often no branch visit
- Branch bank — Sparkasse, Volksbank, Deutsche Bank, or Commerzbank; appointment usually required
Who Needs a Girokonto in Germany?
| Situation | What you typically need |
|---|---|
| Employed expat | Girokonto for salary — employer asks for IBAN in week one |
| Freelancer | Personal Girokonto for tax and insurance; business account may also apply |
| Student (visa) | May need a blocked account for visa proof separately |
| EU citizen | Same as residents after Anmeldung |
| New arrival (no Anmeldung yet) | Some online banks allow pre-registration; full account needs Meldebescheinigung |
Most people working or living long-term in Germany need a local IBAN. A home-country account alone is usually not enough for payroll and SEPA payments.
N26 vs Deutsche Bank vs Commerzbank for Expats
| N26 (online) | Deutsche Bank (branch) | Commerzbank (branch) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Setup speed | Often same day (VideoIdent) | Branch appointment — 1–2 weeks typical | Branch appointment — similar |
| English support | Strong app and support | Available at many branches | Available at many branches |
| Anmeldung required | Usually yes for full activation | Yes | Yes |
| Schufa at opening | Often not required for basic account | May check — stricter for newcomers | May check |
| Monthly fees | Free basic tier; paid tiers available | €0–10 depending on account/balance | €0–10 depending on account/balance |
| Best for | Fast digital setup, first weeks in Germany | In-person banking, mortgages, complex products | Traditional banking with branch network |
| ATM/cash | Limited free withdrawals — check plan | CashGroup ATM network | CashGroup ATM network |
DKB and ING are also popular online options with similar trade-offs to N26. Many expats open an online account first, then add a branch bank later if needed.
This is general guidance — confirm fees and requirements on each bank's website before applying.
What Documents Do You Need?
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Without Anmeldung, most banks cannot complete account opening. If you are still apartment hunting, check whether your chosen bank accepts early registration.
How to Open a Bank Account (Step by Step)
Online bank (N26, DKB, ING)
- Complete Anmeldung and get your Meldebescheinigung.
- Download the bank app or visit their website.
- Complete VideoIdent with your passport (~10 minutes).
- Upload Meldebescheinigung when prompted.
- Receive your IBAN and virtual card; physical Girocard arrives by post in ~1 week.
Branch bank (Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank, Sparkasse)
- Complete Anmeldung.
- Book a branch appointment (Sparkasse/Volksbank are regional).
- Bring passport, Meldebescheinigung, and employment contract (originals + copies).
- Complete the account opening form with an advisor.
- Receive IBAN on the spot; EC card by post in 1–2 weeks.
Give your IBAN to your employer, landlord, and Krankenkasse immediately. You need it for your tax ID payroll setup too.
How Much Does a Bank Account Cost?
| Type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Online Girokonto (N26, DKB, ING) | Free basic account; premium tiers €5–10/month |
| Branch bank | €0–10/month depending on balance and account type |
| Blocked account (Sperrkonto) | Setup ~€50–150 + monthly fee ~€5–10 |
| Foreign ATM withdrawals | Often free in EU; fees outside EU vary |
| International transfers | SEPA free within EU; non-SEPA fees apply |
Most expats start with a free online Girokonto unless they need branch services immediately.
How Long Does Account Opening Take?
Online account (VideoIdent)
Same day — IBAN often available within minutes
Branch bank appointment
1–2 weeks wait in major cities
Physical card arrives
5–10 business days by post
Blocked account (visa)
1–2 weeks; open before visa application if required
Open your account as soon as you have Meldebescheinigung — employers typically ask for your IBAN in the first week.
Common Bank Account Mistakes
- Applying before Anmeldung without checking if the bank allows it
- Confusing Girokonto with blocked account for visa proof
- Choosing an account without checking ATM fees and foreign card charges
- Not giving your IBAN to employer and Krankenkasse promptly
- Expecting Schufa to block all accounts — online banks are often lenient for newcomers
- Using Sparkasse in one city then moving — you may need to switch regional Sparkasse
Bank account FAQs
Can I open a bank account without Anmeldung?
Most banks require a Meldebescheinigung from Anmeldung before fully activating your account. Some online banks let you start registration early, but you typically need to upload your registration certificate before the account is fully usable. Complete [Anmeldung](/guides/anmeldung) first when possible.
Which bank is easiest for expats in Germany?
Online banks like N26 and DKB are often the fastest for newcomers — English apps, VideoIdent, and no branch visit. Branch banks like Deutsche Bank or Commerzbank may suit you if you want in-person support, though appointments and documentation requirements can take longer.
N26, Deutsche Bank or Commerzbank — which is better for expats?
N26 is often best for a fast digital setup with fewer upfront documents. Deutsche Bank and Commerzbank offer branch access and traditional services, which can help for in-person verification or mortgage discussions later. Many expats use N26 or DKB first, then add a branch bank if needed.
Which free current account offers the best conditions for international customers?
Compare monthly fees, ATM withdrawal rules, and whether the bank requires Schufa or a German address at signup. Digital banks often waive basic account fees; traditional banks may waive fees only above a minimum balance. Policies change — confirm directly with the bank.
Where can I open a bank account as a foreigner without Schufa?
Several digital banks including N26 and DKB often allow account opening without an existing Schufa score. If a check applies, it may affect credit products later rather than the basic Girokonto. See our [Schufa guide](/guides/schufa) for building credit over time.
What is a blocked account (Sperrkonto) and do I need one?
A blocked account holds a minimum balance to prove financial resources for some visa types (students, job seekers). It is separate from a daily Girokonto. See our [blocked account guide](/guides/blocked-account) if your visa requires proof of funds.
What is SCHUFA and will it stop me opening an account?
Schufa is Germany's credit scoring system. New arrivals often have no Schufa entry. Online banks are typically more lenient than branch banks for basic accounts. Missing Schufa rarely blocks a Girokonto — it may limit overdrafts or loans.
Can I keep using my home country bank account?
You can keep it, but you usually still need a German Girokonto for salary, rent, and SEPA debits from your Krankenkasse. Employers and landlords expect a German IBAN.
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