🏦 Opening a bank account in Germany: the Girokonto explained

Which documents you need, the difference between online and branch banks — and what matters when choosing an account.

1. Why a German account?

Salary, rent, phone contracts and the broadcasting fee all run through a German current account (Girokonto) with an IBAN. Most landlords and employers only accept SEPA transfers from German accounts.

2. Online or branch bank?

Online banks (N26, DKB, ING) are usually free and open accounts via video identification. Branch banks (Sparkasse, Deutsche Bank) charge fees but offer advice and easy cash deposits.

3. Required documents

ID card or passport, registration certificate (Anmeldung) and often the tax ID. For online banks a smartphone suffices — identity is verified via video call (Video-Ident).

4. What to compare

Account fees, cost of the Girocard and Visa/Mastercard, cash withdrawal fees and overdraft interest. Check whether the bank offers English-language support — important for newcomers.

5. No Anmeldung yet?

Some fintechs open basic accounts without a German address (Wise, Revolut). For rent and salary, however, a real German account is usually expected — open one right after registering.