Open a bank account

You need a German/SEPA account (IBAN) for salary, rent and insurance. Online banks open accounts before Anmeldung; traditional banks usually want your Meldebescheinigung.

1. 1Pick a bank

   Online banks (e.g. N26, bunq) open an account in minutes with video identification and accept a foreign address — useful before Anmeldung. Traditional banks (Sparkasse, Deutsche Bank) want your Meldebescheinigung but offer counters and cash services.

   Passport

   Official source

2. 2Open the account and note your IBAN

   Identify with your passport (video-ident or PostIdent at a post office). Give the new IBAN to your employer, landlord and insurance. Everyone has a right to a basic account (Basiskonto).

   Passport · Meldebescheinigung (traditional banks)

   Official source

Procedures vary by city and office and can change. This is general information, not legal advice — always check the official source.