• MigrateMate Team
Opening a Bank Account in Germany as a Foreigner: What You Need to Know
banking germany expat-finance residency bureaucracy
You need a German bank account for everything—from renting a flat to getting paid. But for foreigners, it’s often harder than expected. Here’s what you should know in 2025.
Types of Bank Accounts
- Girokonto: Standard checking account (for salary, bills)
- Sparkonto: Savings account
- Digital-only accounts (N26, Revolut): Fast, English-friendly, good for early arrivals
Required Documents
- Valid passport or EU ID
- Meldebescheinigung (proof of registration)
- Residence permit (if applicable)
- Employment or university enrollment letter (sometimes required)
The 2025 Landscape
- Fully online KYC is now standard with most fintech banks
- Traditional banks (Sparkasse, Deutsche Bank) still require branch visits
- ESG-focused accounts are gaining popularity among younger expats
How MigrateMate Helps
- Bank Finder Tool: Find banks that accept your passport and status
- Form Assistant: Help filling online or paper application forms
- Fee Comparison Engine: Know what you’ll pay before signing up
👉 Sign up for the beta now and take the guesswork out of German banking.