How to Open a Bank Account in Aachen, Germany for Students

📌 Introduction: Banking for Students in Aachen

If you’re a student moving to Aachen for university (e.g., at FH Aachen or RWTH Aachen University), having a German bank account is essential for tuition, rent, part-time job salary, and everyday life. Some student accounts come with perks like free monthly maintenance and no minimum balance.

This guide will walk you through opening a student bank account, what a blocked account is (when required), how much it costs, and which banks can be good choices for international students.

🧾 How to Open a Bank Account in Germany for Students

🎓 1. Do You Need a Blocked Bank Account?

International students from countries outside the EU often need a blocked account (Sperrkonto) for student visa applications. This is not your everyday bank account, it’s a special visa requirement to prove you have enough money to live in Germany.

– What it is: A special account where funds are “blocked” until you arrive in Germany.
– How much to open: The German authorities set minimum blocked amounts (e.g., ~€11,900 for one year of study as of 2025).
– Where to open: You can open it online before arrival through providers (including German banks, post‑office partners, or visa‑linked services).

💡 In Aachen: If your visa requires it, you’ll need to open this while still abroad with a provider (e.g., Expatrio, Fintiba, or Coracle) acceptable to the German consulate. Once you’re in Germany, you’ll also want a regular student bank account (Girokonto) for everyday payments.

🧑‍🎓 2. Student Girokonto (Current Account) Requirements

🏦 Traditional Banks:

Once you are in Aachen and have your Anmeldung, you can open a standard student bank account.

To open a student account in Aachen, banks usually ask for:

1. Valid passport / ID.
2. Proof of enrolment (Immatrikulationsbescheinigung).
3. Residence permit (for non-EU students).
4. Anmeldung in Aachen (proof of address).

📊 3. How Much to Open a Bank Account in Germany for Students

Many banks offer fee-free student accounts, which include free monthly maintenance and debit cards:

C24 Bank Student Option: The C24 Smart account is free and includes a debit card, mobile banking, and savings features like sub-accounts (pockets). Ideal for digitally-savvy students looking for flexibility and fast setup.
N26 Student Accounts: Often free with no monthly fees.
Sparkasse / Commerzbank: Traditional student accounts with perks and local service.
Deutsche Bank & Others: May require monthly fees, but sometimes have student offers.
Standard Girokonto: Often free or low-cost for students.

Blocked account: One‑time setup and mandatory deposit set by the visa rules (~€11,900 per year).

🏦 4. Where to Bank in Aachen as a Student

Online Banks (Fast & Easy):

Great for easy setup and often free accounts, perfect if you need an account quickly or before you finish your Anmeldung.

N26: Great for students who want an easy mobile-first bank account; setup in minutes.
C24 Bank: Perfect for students looking for a clean, user-friendly mobile bank. The basic plan is free, and the app comes with smart budgeting tools and savings “pockets” to help you manage your finances during your studies. (Great for: Students who want a fast, no-hassle account they can open even before completing Anmeldung. The German IBAN is ideal for rent and university payments.)

bunq or Wise: Options if you want flexible, digital banking.

Traditional Banks (In-Person):

Deutsche Bank: Offers student accounts with German and English services.
Sparkasse Aachen: Widely recommended for students with free account perks.
Aachener Bank: Local branches in Aachen that can explain student account options.

💡 Pro tip: Some banks offer free or discounted student accounts, while others may waive monthly fees if you can prove student status.

📌 Quick Tips for Students

Apply early once you’ve registered your address in Aachen, many banks require this for full activation.
Bring all original documents to a branch appointment.
For digital banks, make sure your smartphone supports their app, and you have a SIM registered to your address if needed.
Consider having both a digital and traditional account for flexibility.

Disclaimer:
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or banking advice. About Aachen is not a financial advisor or service provider. Please consult directly with banks or qualified professionals before making financial decisions.