Open a bank account in Germany

A German current account (Girokonto) is what you'll use to receive your salary, pay rent and set up direct debits in Germany. Most banks now open accounts fully online with video identification, so you rarely need to visit a branch — though a few traditional banks still ask for your registration certificate.

⏱️Free to ~€10/month depending on the bank. Online sign-up takes 15–30 minutes.

Good to know — wherever you live

• ✓App-based banks (N26, Trade Republic, Revolut and similar) open an account in minutes with just your passport and a video call — handy before your Anmeldung is done.
• ✓A full IBAN can take a few days to issue; don't promise it to a landlord or employer the same day.
• ✓If you want a card that's accepted everywhere (including Girocard/EC for smaller German shops), check that before you pick a bank — some app banks only issue Mastercard/Visa.
• ✓Watch for a SCHUFA check on traditional accounts; app banks usually still let you open one even with a thin German credit history.