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SHORT ANSWER
Every consumer in the EU has a legal right to a basic current account (Basiskonto) in Germany. The bank must open it within 10 business days of your application. You usually need your passport and your registration certificate. You need a German account (IBAN) for your salary, rent and insurance.
Legal right
Basiskonto
for every consumer in the EU
Bank must open within
10 business days
after your application
You usually need
Passport + registration
non-EU: residence permit
Rent deposit
max. 3 months
basic rent without utilities
Which account do you need?
For everyday life you need a current account (Girokonto). Branch banks offer personal service on site, online banks are usually cheaper and often allow you to open the account by video identification. A basic account (Basiskonto) is a current account without overdraft; banks may charge a fee for it, so compare offers.
Step by step
- Register your address first. Most banks ask for your registration certificate.
- Choose a bank. Compare monthly fees, card costs, English-language service and cash withdrawals.
- Apply and identify yourself. In a branch or online by video identification with your passport.
- Receive your IBAN and card. The card and online banking access usually arrive by post.
- Share your IBAN. With your employer, landlord, health insurer and other insurers.
Documents you need
- Passport or national ID card
- Registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung)
- Residence permit or visa (non-EU citizens)
- Tax ID – banks ask for it, you can submit it later
Build your credit history (SCHUFA)
SCHUFA is Germany’s main credit agency. Landlords, phone providers and banks check it before signing contracts or giving a loan. A German current account and bills paid on time help you build a good credit history – important if you want to buy property later.
Rent deposit: landlords may ask for up to three months’ basic rent as a deposit. Instead of blocking cash, a rent deposit guarantee can be an alternative – ask us.
Your next step
- Receive your tax ID – Part of our first-steps series for expats.
- Saving and investing for expats – ETF savings plans, pension and how to build wealth in Germany.
Frequently asked questions
Can I open a bank account without the Anmeldung?
Some online banks accept other proof of address. Everyone has a legal right to a basic account; people without a fixed address need a postal address, for example of a counselling centre.
Does the bank check my SCHUFA for a basic account?
The right to a basic account does not depend on your credit history. It has no overdraft, so the risk for the bank is low.
How fast must the bank open my account?
Within 10 business days after receiving your complete application for a basic account.
Can a bank refuse me?
Only for specific legal reasons. If a bank refuses a basic account, you can complain to BaFin or the banks’ ombudsman.
Sources (checked 20 October 2026)
This page gives general information and does not replace personal advice. Tax aspects are not considered; finanXpats does not provide tax advice.