How To: Open Bank Account

Prerequisites to Open a Bank Account:

1. You are in Germany and have completed the Anmeldung process.

2. Meldebescheinigung (a certificate you receive from Rathaus immediately after completing the Anmeldung process).

3. Steuer ID (your tax identification number you receive at your address, roughly, after 2 weeks of Anmeldung. Note: If you request the bank that you will submit a tax ID later, they can open an account without a tax ID. But don’t forget to submit it later.)

4. Valid Passport

5. University Enrollment letter (In case you don’t have it yet, can be submitted later).

Process:

1. Visit or call the bank to make an appointment for an account opening, you cannot walk in for an account opening.

2. Reach the bank right at the time of appointment, don’t be late.

3. Ask the bank official that you want to open a free student account i.e. no monthly charges.

4. You will receive your ATM card and initial PIN code at your address.

Important to Remember:

1. If you are a student and under 28 years, your student account is free.

2. If you are a student and 28 or above, you will be charged a monthly fee of 6 Euros.

3. If you use an ATM card (Giro Karte) more than 3 times a month, you will be charged a fee. So, it is better to use card payment in stores and avoid frequent cash withdrawal.

4. Avoid using the coin deposit machine inside Sparkasse Bank, 3.5 Euros is the fee every time you use it.

Check our PDF guide here:

How To: Open Bank Account