DirectEmigreren
Chapter 5 of 15

Opening a bank account

Deutsche Bank, Sparkasse, N26, Commerzbank — Schufa, documents

Summary

A German bank account (Girokonto) is essential for daily life. Your employer deposits your salary, you pay rent via Dauerauftrag (standing order), and many companies use Lastschrift (direct debit). Without a Girokonto, you cannot sign a rental contract, get a phone plan, or arrange health insurance. In Germany, cash is still much more common than in the Netherlands — many restaurants, bakeries, and small shops don't accept cards.

What you need to know

When to open?

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Knowledge Base

Glossary
  • Anmeldung (Address Registration)

    The mandatory address registration at the Bürgeramt within 14 days of moving. Without Anmeldung you cannot open a bank account, sign an employment contract or pay taxes in Germany.

  • Meldebescheinigung (Registration Certificate)

    Proof of your Anmeldung. You need this document for almost everything: bank account, tax number, health insurance, employment contract. Keep it safe!

  • Bürgeramt (Citizens Office)

    The citizens office where you register your address, request identity documents and handle other administrative matters. Always make an appointment — without a Termin you will not be served.

  • Steuer-ID (Tax Identification Number)

    Your personal tax identification number, automatically assigned after your Anmeldung. Your employer needs this number. It arrives by mail — takes 2-4 weeks.

  • Finanzamt (Tax Office)

    The local tax office. Here you register as a taxpayer, file your Steuererklärung (tax return) and handle all fiscal matters. Much can be done online via ELSTER.

  • Krankenversicherung (Health Insurance)

    Health insurance is mandatory in Germany. Choose between gesetzliche (public: TK, AOK, Barmer) or private Krankenversicherung. Employees earning under ~€69,300/year must be publicly insured.

  • Schufa (Credit Score Agency)

    The German credit information agency. Your Schufa score determines whether you get a rental apartment, can get a phone contract or a loan. Build your score by opening a German bank account and paying bills on time.

  • Rundfunkbeitrag (Broadcasting Fee)

    The mandatory broadcasting fee of €18.36/month per household. Everyone with a registered address must pay, regardless of whether you watch TV or listen to radio.

  • Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (Landlord Confirmation)

    A confirmation from your landlord that you live at the address. This document is required for your Anmeldung. Your landlord is legally required to provide it within 2 weeks.

  • Aufenthaltstitel (Residence Permit)

    The residence permit for non-EU citizens. EU citizens do not need to apply for an Aufenthaltstitel, but must register via the Anmeldung.

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