Why You Need a German Bank Account
A German bank account is essential for:
- •Receiving your salary
- •Renting an apartment
- •Setting up contracts (internet, electricity, etc.)
- •Avoiding fees on international transfers
Examples of Popular Online Banks
1. N26
- •Fully online – simple registration via app
- •English customer service
- •No monthly maintenance fees
- •Three free ATM withdrawals per month
- •No proof of residence (Anmeldung) required to open an account
- •Ideal for newcomers without German language skills
2. bunq
- •Online account, registration possible with passport only
- •Four free ATM withdrawals per month
- •Multi-currency functionality (ideal for international payments)
- •Monthly fee: €8.99
3. DKB
- •Free account with unlimited free withdrawals
- •Only available in German
- •Often more difficult for newcomers to open
4. Vivid
- •Free online account
- •Multilingual support (including English)
- •Only €200 free withdrawal per month
- •Integrated savings and cashback features
Traditional Banks
If you are rejected by online banks, you can open an account with traditional banks:
- •Deutsche Bank
- •Commerzbank
- •Sparkasse
Account opening directly at the branch with passport & registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung)
Accounts typically cost €6-7 per month and offer less English support
Blocked Account (Sperrkonto)
For certain visas (e.g., student, language course, or job-seeking visas), a blocked account is required to prove financial means