Opening a bank account in Germany

A German bank account is required to get paid, pay rent, and sign most contracts, and in most cases you can open one before your Anmeldung appointment, which speeds up everything that follows.

Documents you need

• Passport or national ID
• Proof of address: a lease, or your Anmeldung confirmation if you already have one (some banks accept a hotel address temporarily)
• Visa or residence permit, if applicable
• Proof of employment or enrolment (a contract or admission letter helps with account approval, though it isn't always mandatory)

Traditional banks vs. neo-banks

Traditional banks (Sparkasse, Volksbank/Raiffeisenbank, Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank) offer in-branch service, a wide ATM network, and are generally preferred by landlords and employers who still expect a recognisable German IBAN. Sparkassen are regional: you open an account with the branch covering your address, and account access outside that region can be limited for some services.

Neo-banks (N26, Vivid, C24) let you open a fully digital account in under 15 minutes with just a passport and a selfie video verification, no branch visit required. They're faster and often free, but some landlords, insurers, and even the Ausländerbehörde have been known to be wary of them for salary or deposit payments, so check before relying on one for anything formal.

Many relocators open a neo-bank account immediately on arrival to receive their first payments, then add a traditional account once settled.

The SCHUFA check

SCHUFA is Germany's main credit bureau. Opening a basic checking account (Girokonto) usually doesn't require a SCHUFA check, but applying for a credit card, overdraft, or phone contract tied to the account will. As a newcomer you start with no SCHUFA history, which is neutral rather than negative, but it means some products (like a credit card) may be declined or offered only with a deposit until you build a record.

Blocked accounts for students (Sperrkonto)

If you're coming to Germany on a student visa, you'll likely need to open a Sperrkonto (blocked account) before your visa is even approved. You deposit a fixed annual amount (around €11,904 for 2025, reviewed yearly) and can only withdraw a set monthly allowance, as proof that you can support yourself without working. Providers like Expatrio and Fintiba specialise in these and can open one from abroad, before you land.

Salary account requirements

Employers need your IBAN before your first payday, and most expect a standard Girokonto rather than a blocked or savings account. If you open a neo-bank account for speed, double-check with HR that they accept it: most do, but some larger corporations still default to requiring a traditional bank.

Getting started

1. Compare 2–3 providers based on your situation (student, employee, freelancer) and whether you need in-branch service.
2. Gather your documents and, for a traditional bank, book an in-branch appointment, which can take one to two weeks to schedule in larger cities.
3. Complete identity verification, either in person or via video call.
4. Expect your card and PIN by post within 1–2 weeks after approval.