Opening a bank account in Germany

Last updated: March 5, 2026

Opening a Bank Account in Germany: A Practical Guide for Dutch Emigrants

Opening a bank account is one of the first essential steps when moving to Germany. It allows you to receive your salary, pay rent, set up utilities, and manage daily expenses. This guide outlines the necessary procedures, costs, and tips specifically for Dutch citizens relocating to Germany.

Types of Bank Accounts in Germany

The most common type of bank account you will need is a Girokonto (current account). It functions similarly to a Dutch betaalrekening and is used for everyday transactions like receiving salaries, direct debits, and card payments.

There are two main categories:

Standard Girokonto: Usually comes with a debit card (EC-Karte or Girocard) and online banking.
Online-only accounts: Usually cheaper or free but require you to manage everything via apps or websites.

Choosing a Bank

Popular banks in Germany include:

Deutsche Bank
Commerzbank
Sparkasse (regional savings banks)
Volksbank / Raiffeisenbank (local cooperative banks)
N26 and DKB (digital banks)

Physical banks offer in-person support but may charge monthly fees (€3-€10). Digital banks often provide free accounts but lack physical branches.

Required Documents

To open a bank account in Germany, you typically need:

Proof of Identity
- Valid passport or EU identity card (Dutch identity card accepted)
Proof of Address in Germany
- Anmeldung (registration certificate) issued by your local Bürgeramt (residents’ registration office)
Proof of Employment or Income (sometimes required)
- Employment contract, payslips, or proof of student status
Tax Identification Number (if available)
- Issued after Anmeldung; not always mandatory for opening an account

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Register Your Address (Anmeldung)

Before opening an account, you must register your address at the local Bürgeramt. This registration certificate is essential for the bank to verify your residence.

Visit your local Bürgeramt with your passport and rental contract.
Complete the Anmeldung form.
Receive your Meldebescheinigung (proof of registration).

2. Choose Your Bank and Account Type

Decide if you prefer a branch bank or an online bank. Consider fees, customer service, and convenience.

3. Book an Appointment or Apply Online

For traditional banks, book an appointment (Termin) either online or by phone.
For online banks like N26 or DKB, apply via their websites or apps.

4. Attend the Appointment or Complete Identity Verification

Present your documents.
You may be asked about your employment status and intended usage.
Identity verification may be done in person or via video call for online banks.

5. Receive Your Bank Card and Details

Debit cards are usually mailed within 1-2 weeks.
You will receive your IBAN (International Bank Account Number) and online banking login details.

Costs and Fees

Account maintenance fees: €0 (for many online banks) up to €10 per month for some traditional banks.
Debit card fees: Often included, but sometimes €5-€10 per year.
Credit cards: Optional, usually cost €20-€50 per year.
Cash withdrawals: Free at your own bank’s ATMs; may incur fees at others.
International transfers: Usually charged; SEPA transfers within EU are often free or low cost.

Example fees:

Sparkasse Girokonto: around €5-€8 monthly maintenance.
N26 Standard Account: free.
DKB Cash Account: free with some conditions.

Practical Tips

Bring your Anmeldung certificate: Most banks will not open an account without proof of residence.
Consider an online bank first: They often require less paperwork and have faster account opening.
Check for English services: Some banks offer English-language websites and customer support.
Beware of dormant accounts: If you don’t use your German account, it might be closed.
Use your German account for salary payments: Employers almost always require a German IBAN.

Useful Links

Federal Government Information on Living in Germany (includes banking):
https://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/working-in-germany/banking-finance
Bürgeramt finder (for Anmeldung):
https://service.berlin.de/standorte/buergeraemter/
N26 official website: https://n26.com
DKB official website: https://www.dkb.de

Common Mistakes

Not registering your address before applying: Banks require Anmeldung as proof of residence.
Applying without valid ID: Only passports or EU ID cards accepted.
Ignoring fees: Some banks charge monthly fees that add up; review terms carefully.
Not checking if the bank supports English: Can complicate communication.
Using a Dutch bank account for salary in Germany: Employers prefer German accounts to avoid transfer delays and fees.
Not updating your address with the bank after moving: Can lead to blocked accounts or missed correspondence.

Opening a bank account in Germany is straightforward if you prepare the right documents and understand the costs involved. Prioritize registering your address (Anmeldung) and choose a bank that suits your banking habits and budget.

Opening a bank account in Germany