Opening a German bank account is a necessary step to receive your salary and handle daily payments. Opening a German bank account offers many options. This article guides newcomers through the process.
What is needed to open a German bank account
Opening a German bank account (Girokonto — a current account) requires the main documents: a passport or residence permit, a Meldebescheinigung (Anmeldung confirmation), and a Steuer-ID once available. Some banks also require an employment contract.
There are two main types of banks in Germany: traditional banks with branches (Sparkasse, Volksbank, Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank) and digital banks (N26, DKB, ING, Comdirect). Newcomers usually choose a digital bank because it is fast to open and has lower fees.
Popular digital banks
N26 (Berlin) is a digital bank popular with foreigners, opened online in 10 minutes via the app, with a multilingual interface. DKB and ING are also popular, with low costs and accounts free for most users. Comdirect and Consorsbank suit those who want to invest.
Some digital banks allow opening an account before Anmeldung, useful for newcomers. However, some services (such as large installment purchases) require a German address with completed Anmeldung.
Notes for Vietnamese applicants
Vietnamese migrants should have at least two accounts: one at a traditional bank with a branch (for procedures requiring a physical signature or in-branch visits), and one digital bank (for daily convenience).
Most German banks do not charge a fee for opening a basic account or issuing a Girocard debit card. Some premium accounts have fees. Compare terms via sites such as Check24 or Verivox before choosing.
You should refer to Make it in Germany and trang Bo Noi vu Lien bang Duc to check current conditions.
Summary
Opening a German bank account (Girokonto) requires a passport, Meldebescheinigung, and Steuer-ID. There are two types: traditional (Sparkasse, Volksbank, Deutsche Bank) and digital (N26, DKB, ING). Digital banks open quickly via app with low fees. Some allow opening before Anmeldung. You should have both a traditional and a digital account, and compare terms via Check24/Verivox.
