Open a Bank Account in Germany

Everyone who moves to Germany needs a German bank account sooner or later. As you may have already noticed, there is a number of German banks. So which one to choose?

We have asked newcomers in Germany about their favourite bank accounts in Germany. Some want to have a very basic free bank account. Others prefer to have English-speaking customer service and online banking in English. For this, they are willing to pay a small monthly fee. Whatever your personal preference, you can find your best match on this page. Further below you can find a selection of banks that are expat-friendly and offer their services in English. Here you can fill in the application forms directly online.

Note that you normally need to have registered your residence to open a bank account. If you are not registered in Germany but you live in the EU, then you can still have the N26 account and get a German IBAN.

If you are self-employed or have your own company, you need a business account in Germanyfind out more about business accounts in Germany in our blog.

Bank account Germany

› N26 – Our Favourite

ideal for students & young professionals: Europe’s most modern bank account

√ everything is in English
√ modern design, online & mobile banking
√ free Mastercard
√ international transfers with Wise
√ 5 free cash withdrawals worldwide / per month
new: free business account!

N26 is the only bank where you can open a bank account with a German IBAN without being registered in Germany. 

› DKB – The free Account

√ Ideal for anyone that wants a free online bank account

√ completely free
√ normally comes with overdraft
√ no card fees, no bank fees
√ free cash withdrawals worldwide

> Commerzbank – free basic account & English speaking support 

√ ideal for professionals with a regular salary

√ online banking in English
√ personal support in English
√ information available in English
√ free cash withdrawals at more than 9000 cash machines in Germany