Opening a German Bank Account as a Newcomer

Your German salary needs a German bank account (IBAN) – but banks want a registered address, and landlords want a bank account. Here is how newcomers break the loop.

The chicken-and-egg problem, solved

Traditional branch banks usually require your Anmeldung (registered address) and often check SCHUFA, the German credit score you don't have yet. Modern online banks are the workaround: several open full accounts with just a passport and video identification, before your registration is complete. Typical order that works: open an online account for the first salary → complete Anmeldung → then, if you want, add a traditional bank.

What you will need

Passport (plus residence permit or visa where already issued), and depending on the bank: Anmeldung certificate, tax ID, sometimes proof of income. Video identification replaces the branch visit at most online banks; some also accept identification at a post office (PostIdent).

Girokonto, blocked account, joint account

The everyday account is the Girokonto. Students and some visa categories need a blocked account (Sperrkonto) instead – a different product, opened before entry. Couples can usually convert to or add a joint account once both are registered.

Practical tips from our daily work

Set up the account before the first rent payment is due – landlords expect German transfers. Activate the SEPA direct debit capability; utilities, insurance and gyms all collect by Lastschrift. And keep your old home-country account open for a transition period – closing too early is a classic mistake in both directions of a relocation.