How to Open a Bank Account in Germany for International Students

Why You Need a German Bank Account as a Student

Landing in Germany without a local bank account means relying on cash or expensive services—and neither is ideal. With a German account in your pocket, you can:

• Pay rent and utilities: Landlords and providers expect SEPA transfers from an IBAN that only German banks can issue.
• Receive your scholarship or Blocked account transfers: If you’re an international student, funds from your blocked account (Sperrkonto) must be transferred monthly into a regular German bank account.
• Manage daily expenses: Enjoy free monthly statements to track spending and set budgets in euros—not in unpredictable exchange rates.
• Access online payment methods: From semester fees to groceries, most platforms accept German debit cards or SEPA direct debits.
• Avoid high fees: A standard payment account costs 0 €/month, offers no overdraft, and has no minimum balance—so you keep more of your money.

How to Open a Student Bank Account

Opening a student bank account in Germany might sound daunting, but with the right paperwork and a clear process, you’ll be set up in no time.

1. Choose the Right Bank

You can open your account with:

• Traditional banks: Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank, Sparkasse
• Online banks: N26, DKB, Wise (for transfers)
• Specialized for students: Studely, Expatrio, Fintiba (for blocked accounts)

2. Prepare the Required Documents

To open a Girokonto (current account), you typically need:

• Valid passport
• Visa or residence permit (or proof of application)
• Proof of enrollment (Zulassungsbescheid or student ID)
• German address registration (Anmeldung)
• Tax ID (can be provided later for some banks)
  For blocked accounts (Sperrkonto), add:
• Admission letter
• Embassy requirements (minimum deposit for 2025: €11,208)

3. Open the Account (Online or In-Person)

Online Opening (e.g., Studely)

• Fill in the application
• Do a video identification (via passport)
• Upload your documents
• Your account is usually ready in 1–3 days

In-Person Opening (e.g., Sparkasse, Deutsche Bank)

• Make an appointment
• Bring all your documents
• A clerk will help you set up the account
• Card and IBAN arrive in 3–7 business days

4. Activate and Use Your Account

Once your account is active:

• You’ll receive an IBAN
• Use it to receive your funds, pay bills, or set up SEPA debits
• You’ll also receive a debit card (EC Karte)
• Blocked accounts will only release a monthly portion (currently ~€934/month in 2025).

5 Money-Saving Tips for Your German Student Bank Account

Opening a bank account in Germany shouldn’t cost a fortune. With a few simple habits, you can steer clear of unnecessary fees and keep more euros for rent, groceries, and weekend trips.

1. Pick a no-fee account: Avoid monthly charges by choosing a current account with zero fees and no minimum balance.
2. Go paperless: Opt for electronic statements to dodge postage and printing costs.
3. Mind the ATM: Use your bank’s ATMs or partner networks—cash withdrawals at other machines can cost up to €5 per transaction.
4. Combine payments: Group your direct debits on payday to minimize transaction fees.
5. Track your spending: Set up notifications for every payment to spot unexpected charges early.

By following these tips, you’ll make every euro count and enjoy more financial freedom during your studies. Manage your funds fee-free with Studely’s payment account — open yours now at www.studely.com