Yes, you can open a bank account in Germany, but the process and requirements depend on your residency status and which bank you choose
You can open a bank account in Germany whether you are a citizen, EU resident, or non-EU foreigner. German banks are required by law to offer basic payment accounts to anyone with a legal residence in Germany. The main difference is paperwork: EU citizens need an ID or passport and proof of address; non-EU citizens typically need a residence permit, passport, and proof of address. Some banks also accept online applications from abroad before you arrive, though most require you to visit a branch in person to verify your identity.
The timeline varies. If you walk into a branch with all documents, you can open an account the same day or within a few business days. If you apply online from outside Germany, expect two to four weeks. The account itself is free at most banks, though some charge monthly fees if you do not meet minimum balance or deposit requirements—usually between €5 and €15 per month if triggered.
Key Takeaways
- EU citizens need a valid ID or passport and proof of address; non-EU citizens need a residence permit, passport, and proof of address.
- Most German banks require you to visit a branch in person to verify your identity, though some accept online applications if you have a video call with staff.
- A basic payment account is a legal right in Germany, meaning you cannot be refused an account solely because you are a foreigner or have no credit history.
- Monthly fees are rare but possible if your account sits dormant or you do not meet the bank's activity threshold; check the fee schedule before opening.
- You will need a German IBAN (starting with DE) to receive salary payments, set up standing orders, or pay bills in Germany.
What documents you need to bring or upload
For EU citizens, bring a valid national ID card or passport and proof of your current address in Germany. Proof of address can be a rental contract, utility bill, or a letter from your landlord dated within the last three months. Some banks also accept a registration certificate (Anmeldung) from your local registration office, which you receive when you register your residence with the city.
For non-EU citizens, you need a passport, a valid residence permit or visa, and proof of address. If your residence permit is still being processed, some banks will hold your application until it arrives. A few banks also ask for proof of income—a recent payslip, employment contract, or letter from your employer—though this is not always required for a basic account. If you are self-employed or a student, bring documentation of your status (business registration or university enrollment letter).
If you are applying online from outside Germany, you will upload scans of these documents and then complete a video identification call with the bank. The bank staff member will ask you to show your passport or ID on camera and may ask basic questions about your reason for opening the account and where you will be living. This process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.
Which banks accept foreigners and how to apply
All major German banks accept foreign residents: Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank, Sparkasse (the largest savings bank network), ING-DiBa, and Comdirect all have straightforward processes for non-citizens. Sparkasse branches are the most widespread—there is usually one in every town—and they tend to be the most welcoming to foreigners because they serve local communities. ING-DiBa and Comdirect are online-only banks and often the fastest for remote applications.
To apply in person, find a branch near your address and walk in during business hours. You do not need an appointment at most branches, though calling ahead can save you a wait. Bring all your documents in originals (not just copies). The staff member will verify your identity, ask a few questions about your employment and address, and process the application on the spot. You will receive your account number and IBAN immediately, though your debit card and PIN will arrive by post within one to two weeks.
To apply online, visit the bank's website and select "Open an account" or "Konto eröffnen". You will fill in your personal details, upload document scans, and schedule a video call. After the call, the bank sends you a welcome package with your debit card and instructions. Some banks, like ING-DiBa, also send a temporary access code so you can start using your account online before the card arrives.
What happens if you do not have a residence permit yet
If you are still waiting for your residence permit to be issued or you are in Germany on a tourist visa and planning to stay longer, most banks will not open an account until your permit is in hand. A few banks, particularly Sparkasse branches in larger cities, may open a temporary account or hold your application, but this is not may provide. Your best option is to contact the bank directly and ask whether they can process your application conditionally—some will if you provide a letter from immigration confirming your application is pending.
If you need to receive money before your account is open, ask your employer or the person sending you money to use a money transfer service like Wise, Remitly, or Western Union. These services do not require a German bank account; you can pick up cash at a partner location or have funds sent to a temporary account. The fees are higher than a bank transfer, but the process is faster.
Monthly fees, minimum balances, and what to watch for
Most German banks offer free basic accounts with no minimum balance requirement. However, some banks charge a monthly fee if your account is inactive (no transactions for several months) or if you do not meet their activity threshold—for example, receiving at least one salary deposit per month. Sparkasse and Deutsche Bank typically charge €5 to €10 per month if these conditions are not met. ING-DiBa and Comdirect usually have no monthly fees at all, even for inactive accounts.
When you open your account, ask the bank staff to show you the fee schedule (Gebührenverzeichnis) in writing. This document lists every charge: monthly account fee, ATM withdrawal fees, wire transfer fees, and overdraft fees. Some banks charge €1 to €2 per ATM withdrawal if you use a competitor's machine, so knowing this upfront helps you plan. A few banks also charge for paper statements, though most offer free online statements through their app or website.
One thing to watch: if you are a non-EU citizen, some banks may close your account if you leave Germany for more than a certain period (often six months to a year) without notifying them. If you plan to travel or move, tell your bank in advance so they do not flag your account as abandoned.
Getting your debit card and setting up online banking
Your debit card (Girocard or EC-Karte) arrives by post within one to two weeks of opening your account. It will come with a PIN in a separate envelope. You can use this card to withdraw cash at any ATM in Germany and abroad, and to pay in shops. Most German shops still prefer card payments over contactless or mobile payments, so having a physical card is important.
Online banking (Onlinebanking) is set up automatically when you open your account. You will receive login credentials by post or email, depending on the bank. Log in to the bank's website or app to see your balance, set up standing orders (Daueraufträge) for rent or bills, and make wire transfers. Most banks use two-factor authentication—you will need to confirm transactions with a code sent to your phone or generated by an app.
If you are paid by salary, ask your employer for the wire transfer form and give them your IBAN and BIC (bank identifier code). Your bank will provide both when you open the account. Your first salary should arrive within one to three business days of the transfer being sent.
Opening an account if you have no credit history or income
German banks do not require a credit history to open a basic account. They are legally required to offer a payment account to anyone with a legal residence, regardless of credit score or past banking problems. This means you can open an account even if you have never had a bank account before or if you had problems with a previous bank.
If you do not have income yet—for example, you are a student or you are still job hunting—you can still open an account. Some banks may ask for proof that someone will support you (a letter from a parent or sponsor) or proof of enrollment if you are a student, but they cannot refuse you an account based on lack of income alone. Once you find work, you can update your employment information with the bank.
If you are self-employed or a freelancer, bring your business registration (Gewerbeanmeldung) or a letter from your tax advisor confirming your status. Some banks ask for recent tax returns or income statements, but this is usually only for accounts with additional services like overdraft protection or credit cards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a German bank account online without visiting a branch?
Yes, if you use an online bank like ING-DiBa or Comdirect. You upload your documents and complete a video identification call. However, most traditional banks like Deutsche Bank and Sparkasse require at least one in-person visit to verify your identity, though you can start the application online first.
What is the difference between a Sparkasse and a regular bank?
Sparkasse is a network of public savings banks owned by local municipalities. They tend to have more branches, lower fees, and staff who speak English in tourist areas. Regular banks like Deutsche Bank are private and often have more online services. Both are equally safe and regulated.
Do I need a German address to open an account?
Yes, you need proof of a current address in Germany. If you are staying in temporary housing or a hostel, ask your landlord or the property manager for a letter confirming your residence. Some banks accept a registration certificate (Anmeldung) from your local registration office as proof instead.
What if my bank closes my account because I moved away?
If you leave Germany, tell your bank before you go. Most banks will keep your account open if you notify them. If your account is closed without warning, contact the bank immediately and ask why. You have the right to a basic payment account even as a non-resident, though some banks may charge higher fees or require you to maintain a minimum balance.
Can I use my German bank account if I move back to my home country?
Yes, you can keep your German account open and use it to receive money from Germany or make payments. However, some banks charge fees for accounts held by non-residents, or they may require you to maintain a minimum balance. Check with your bank about their policy before you leave.