Rostock · Girokonto
Checklist last verified 2026-06-11
Open a bank account in Rostock
A German current account (Girokonto) is what you'll use to receive your salary, pay rent and set up direct debits in Rostock. 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.
A Girokonto (current account) is what you'll use for salary, rent and direct debits. Most app banks (N26, DKB, ING…) open one fully online in minutes with a video ID and your passport — often before your Anmeldung is even done. Note the full IBAN can take a few days to arrive, and traditional banks may run a SCHUFA check, while app banks usually don't.
What you need to bring
- Passport or IDRequired
📋 Bring the original, not a copy
How to get it: Issued by your home country. Renew at your country's embassy or consulate in Germany — appointments can take weeks, so check the expiry early.
- MeldebescheinigungRequired
📋 Bring the original, not a copy
How to get it: You receive it at your Anmeldung appointment at the Bürgeramt. Lost it? Request a new copy at the Bürgeramt (small fee, often bookable online).
- Proof of income (sometimes)If applicable
How to get it: Usually recent payslips, your employment contract, or a tax assessment. Self-employed: a profit statement (BWA) or your Steuerbescheid.
- Tax ID / Steuer-ID (sometimes)If applicable
How to get it: Mailed automatically ~2–3 weeks after your first Anmeldung. Lost it? Find it on a payslip or tax assessment, or request it again from the BZSt online.
Can you do it online?
Most banks open accounts fully online with video identification — no branch visit needed. Popular English-friendly options below.
Useful links
Good to know
- 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.
Frequently asked questions
What do I need for Girokonto in Rostock?
You'll need 2 key documents: Passport or ID, Meldebescheinigung. Rostock is the largest city in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and its university draws a big international intake; the state's own portals handle most online services, and rents are well below the western metros.
Can I do Girokonto online in Rostock?
Most banks open accounts fully online with video identification — no branch visit needed. Popular English-friendly options below.
Which office handles Girokonto in Rostock?
Open a bank account in Rostock is handled at the local level in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. The exact office and any forms are linked from the official source on this page, and once you're on the portal, the free TiG Pilot extension explains each field in plain English.
Checklist last verified 2026-06-11. Rules vary by office and change over time — always confirm with the official source linked above.