Girokonto — Bank Account

Why Do You Need a Bank Account in Germany?

Without a Girokonto you cannot:
- Receive your salary
- Pay rent (Überweisung)
- Get Kindergeld, Wohngeld benefits
- Sign contracts for phone/internet

Where to Open an Account?

Traditional Banks:

• Sparkasse — in every city, more expensive
• Volksbank — local, user-friendly
• Deutsche Bank — large, international
• Commerzbank — good ATM network

Online Banks (free!):

• N26 — app-based, free card
• DKB — free withdrawals worldwide
• ING — no fees from €700 monthly income
• Comdirect — good customer service

What Documents Do You Need?

1. Passport or ID (with biometric data)
2. Anmeldung (registration certificate)
3. Sometimes: employment contract or income statement

How Much Does an Account Cost?

Basic Vocabulary:

• IBAN — account number (DE + 20 digits)
• BIC/SWIFT — bank code
• Überweisung — transfer
• Dauerauftrag — standing order
• Lastschrift — direct debit
• EC-Karte — debit card
• Geldautomat — ATM

How to Open an Account Online?

1. Go to the bank's website
2. Fill out the form
3. VideoIdent or PostIdent (identity verification)
4. Account active in 1-3 days
5. Card arrives by mail in 5-7 days

Important!

• Always check maintenance fees
• Avoid overdraft (Dispo) — high interest rates!
• Set up transaction notifications

Editorial hamboorg.city · As of: April 2026 · Carefully prepared, regularly updated. Content is informational and does not replace legal advice.