Opening a Bank Account — Girokonto for Foreigners

Without a German Girokonto you can hardly get anything done: salary, rent, Rundfunkbeitrag, as well as Kindergeld or Wohngeld are paid into an account. This article covers the opening process; how to choose an account and compare fees — see Girokonto.

Basic Account — Your Right (§31 ZKG)

Since 2016, everyone with legal residence has the right to a basic account (Basiskonto) — Zahlungskontengesetz. A bank cannot reject you without good reason. Basiskonto provides transfers, Girocard, online banking and standing orders, but no overdraft.

Required Documents

• Valid ID (passport / Aufenthaltstitel / Duldung / arrival certificate)
• Registration certificate — first do registration (Anmeldung)
• Steuer-ID (required at some banks)

How Does Identification Work?

• VideoIdent — video call via smartphone with document (online banks, in minutes)
• PostIdent — verification at the post office with form (traditional banks)

The account is usually active in 1–3 days, the card arrives by mail in 5–7 days.

SCHUFA — As a Newcomer You Have No Entry

Schufa is a credit history registry. As a new resident you have no entry — for Basiskonto this doesn't matter, but online banks can be picky. If they refuse, go to Sparkasse/Volksbank and demand Basiskonto.

What to Do When a Bank Refuses

1. Submit a written request for Basiskonto
2. The bank must process it within the statutory period
3. If wrongfully refused, file a complaint with BaFin (financial regulator)

Tips

• Open an account as soon as possible after registration — without an IBAN you won't get work or benefits
• Traditional banks are often more helpful with language barriers