Moving To Germany Series : 4/15 Opening a Bank Account in Germany (2025): The Complete Guide

Whether you’re moving to Germany for work, study, or personal reasons, setting up a German bank account (Girokonto) is one of your first essential steps.

Without it, receiving your salary, paying rent, or managing everyday expenses would be nearly impossible. 🏡💸

This updated guide will walk you through why it’s crucial, what you need, the best banks for 2025, and some insider tips for getting started smoothly.

📋 Why You Need a German Bank Account

Opening a bank account isn’t just convenient — it’s legally necessary for most aspects of life in Germany:

• Receive Salary Payments: Employers generally require a German IBAN.

• Rent a Flat: Landlords often ask for proof of a local bank account.

• Pay Bills: Internet, electricity, mobile phone — everything runs through direct debit (Lastschrift).

• Access Public Services: Some government benefits or refunds are paid directly to your account.

💡 Tip: Even opening health insurance or setting up a gym membership may require a German bank account!

🏛️ Popular Banks in Germany (2025 Update)

You can choose between traditional banks with physical branches or mobile-first (online) banks for easier digital management.

Bank	Type	Why Choose It
N26	Online	Easy setup, English support, free basic account, mobile-friendly.
bunq	Online	Eco-friendly, multi-currency support, great for travelers.
Commerzbank	Traditional	Free account with salary deposit; many branches for face-to-face help.
Deutsche Bank	Traditional	Big, trusted brand; English-speaking service in some branches.
DKB	Online/Hybrid	Free ATM withdrawals worldwide, good for travelers.
ING Germany	Online	High-rated customer service, no-fee accounts for salaried workers.

📄 What You Need to Open a Bank Account

Requirements depend a little on the bank, but typically you’ll need:

• Valid Passport (and visa/residence permit if applicable)

• Anmeldung Certificate (proof of address registration in Germany)

• Employment Contract or University Enrollment Letter (sometimes requested, especially for salaried accounts)

• Proof of Income (some banks want payslips for premium accounts)

• Mobile Phone Number and Email Address (for online banking verification)

🔔 Important:

Many banks require video verification (Video-Ident) or Post-Ident (at Deutsche Post branches) for online openings.

🏦 Types of Bank Accounts (2025)

Choosing the right type of account depends on your situation:

• Girokonto (Current Account):

  Standard account for everyday use — salary, rent, bills.

• Student Account (Studentenkonto):

  Special free accounts for university students (usually valid until age 30).

  Examples: N26 Student Plan, Deutsche Bank Student Account.

• Premium Accounts:

  Paid accounts (€5–€15/month) offering perks like:

  
  

  • Free international money transfers.

  • Travel insurance.

  • Priority customer service.

  • Cashback programs.

  
  

• Basic Accounts (Basiskonto):

  Mandatory by law — even asylum seekers or non-residents can request one if they have a valid ID.

  Example: Commerzbank Basic Account.

✍️ How to Open a Bank Account (Step-by-Step)

1. Choose Your Bank:

   Compare fees, customer service quality, English support, and account perks.

2. Submit Online Application or Visit a Branch:

   
   

   • Fill in your personal details.

   • Upload scanned documents (passport, Anmeldung).

   • Confirm your mobile/email.

   
   

3. Identity Verification:

   
   

   • Video-Ident (remote) via webcam.

   • Post-Ident (in-person at a German post office).

   
   

4. Activate Your Account:

   Receive your debit card (EC-Karte) and online banking PIN in the mail separately.

5. Start Using Your Account:

   Set up salary payments, rent payments, and direct debits.

💡 Pro Tip:

Some banks offer €100–€200 bonuses if you set up direct salary deposits and make a certain number of transactions in the first months. Always check special promotions! 🎁

🆕 New Trends in 2025

• Instant Bank Account Opening:

  Many online banks now allow you to open and activate an account within 10–30 minutes from your phone.

• SEPA Instant Payments:

  Faster transfer systems allow money to move between European accounts within seconds instead of hours or days.

• Green Banking Options:

  Banks like bunq and Tomorrow offer carbon-neutral accounts and automatic tree planting with card usage. 🌳

• Crypto-Friendly Banks:

  Some banks like Vivid Money are expanding support for cryptocurrencies and investment apps linked to your bank account.

🚨 Common Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Forgetting your Anmeldung:

  No German address, no bank account (for most traditional banks).

• ❌ Ignoring monthly fees:

  Some "free" accounts require a minimum incoming payment (e.g., €700/month) to stay free.

• ❌ Choosing based only on bonuses:

  Focus on service quality and flexibility too, not just cash offers.

• ❌ Forgetting about card fees abroad:

  If you travel outside Germany, pick a bank offering free international withdrawals.

🔗 Useful Resources

• All About Berlin – Best Bank Accounts

• N26 – Open Account Online

• Commerzbank – Account Information

• bunq – Eco-Friendly Banking

• DKB – International Banking Options

🧭 Final Thoughts

Opening a bank account in Germany is straightforward if you’re prepared.

✅ Bring the right documents.

✅ Choose a bank that matches your lifestyle (traditional or fully online).

✅ Take advantage of digital banking tools for fast setup and easy management.

With your new account set up, you’ll be ready to fully participate in German life — from getting paid to paying for your new apartment and exploring this beautiful country! 🇩🇪✨