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ΕλληνικάGirokonto in Germany
A Girokonto (bank account) is essential in Germany — for salary, rent, insurance and daily expenses. Since 2016, people without a fixed place of residence also have the right to a basic account.
Branch Bank vs. Online Bank
| Feature | Branch Bank | Online Bank |
|---|---|---|
| Advice | In person at the branch | Phone, chat, email |
| Branches | Yes (e.g., Sparkasse, Volksbank) | No |
| ATMs | Own network | Often free at all ATMs |
| Account fees | 3–10 €/month | Often 0 € |
| Account opening | At the branch by appointment | Online + Video-Ident (10 min) |
| Language support | German, partly multilingual | English often available |
Popular Banks Compared
| Bank | Account fee | Girocard/Debit card | Special feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sparkasse | 3–10 €/month | Yes (Girocard) | Largest branch network, personal advice |
| DKB | 0 € (with money incoming) | Visa Debit card | Free withdrawals worldwide |
| ING | 0 € (from 700 € incoming) | Visa Debit card | Good app, free from minimum deposit |
| N26 | 0 € (basic account) | Mastercard | Smartphone-first, quick opening |
| Commerzbank | 0 € (from 700 € incoming) | Girocard + Visa | Branches + online combined |
Basic Account (Universal Account)
- Legal entitlement for everyone in Germany (§ 31 ZKG)
- Even without fixed residence, residence permit or Schufa entry
- Basic functions: transfers, direct debits, card payments
- Costs: approx. 5–8 €/month
- Application at any bank — rejection only in exceptional cases
What You Need for Account Opening
- ID card or passport (with residence permit)
- Registration certificate (registration confirmation)
- For online banks: Video-Ident (webcam + ID) or PostIdent
- German tax identification number (sent by mail after registration)
Tips
- Compare fees — many banks are free with salary deposit
- Sparkasse is ideal if you need personal advice in German
- DKB or ING are worthwhile if you don't need a branch network
- Pay attention to Schufa inquiry — with negative Schufa, choose the basic account
- Second account at an online bank often makes sense (e.g., for travel)
Status: March 2026. All information without guarantee.