Opening a bank account
Anyone who wants to live in Germany for a longer period needs a bank account – for example to rent a flat or to have their salary paid in.
To open an account with a bank in Germany you need:
- Your passport
- The Meldebescheinigung (certificate of registration) for your place of residence
- Depending on the type of account, a salary statement from your employer
With these documents you apply at the bank of your choice for a Girokonto (current account) and an EC-Karte (debit card). Some banks also offer current accounts as credit accounts. That means: you must not overdraw the account; for example you may not take out loans via the account. Some institutions also require that a certain amount is paid in each month (minimum credit). Clarify both points before you sign the contract.
It is worth comparing
Many banks charge different fees, for example for account management or for each transfer. Some banks also waive fees if you pay in a certain amount per month, such as your salary. It is therefore worth making a comparison when choosing a bank.
Online banks
As an alternative to current accounts there are also online accounts. These accounts can be opened online or by post and then used online. They are offered by some direct banks – that is, banks that have no branches. An online account has the same functions as a German current account and is also equipped with a German account number and Bankleitzahl (bank sort code). Transfers from or to foreign banks are also possible.
To open an online account with a direct bank you must prove your identity using the Postident procedure. You receive the required documents from the bank. You then go to Deutsche Post (German Post), identify yourself and have this confirmed by a postal employee, who sends the documents to the bank.