How to Open a Bank Account in Germany for Expats (in Aachen)

📌 Introduction: Banking Essentials for Expats in Aachen

Why do you need a German bank account? Opening a bank account in Germany as an expat is one of the first steps after moving to Aachen, whether you’re planning ahead or already living here. A German bank account makes everyday life easier: paying rent, receiving a salary, setting up utilities, and managing everyday expenses. It’s also often required for things like employment contracts and residence registrations.

This guide covers how to open a bank account, what documents you’ll need, how much it typically costs, and the best options available, especially expat-friendly banks.

📍 Before You Arrive (How to open a bank account in Germany from abroad)

Some banks and neobanks allow you to start the process before arrival, especially online or mobile banks like N26 or other digital providers. However, traditional banks usually require you to have a German address and registration (Anmeldung) before officially opening your account.

💡 Tip for Aachen: If you don’t yet have an Aachen address, consider beginning with an online neobank first, then switching to a local account once you arrive.

🧾 How to Open a Bank Account in Germany for Expats

1. Decide Where to Apply: Digital vs Traditional

There are two main paths:

🌐 Digital Banks:

These are online-first banks you can open on your smartphone or laptop, often before you arrive in Germany (depending on the bank). They’re great if you want a fast setup with English support and minimal paperwork.

N26: Easy digital account with a German IBAN and multiple languages supported. You can open it entirely online in minutes.

Pros: Fully online, fast setup, English-language app, free basic plan, ideal for new arrivals.
Cons: No physical branches, limited cash deposit options, and customer support can be slow at peak times.

C24 Bank: A fast-growing German digital bank backed by Check24. Offers a German IBAN, English-language app, and fully online account setup with no paperwork, great for opening your account before or shortly after arriving in Aachen.

Pros: Fully online signup, English app interface, free basic account (C24 Smart), built-in budgeting tools, and optional sub-accounts (“pockets”) for organizing your money.
Cons: No physical branches or cash deposit support, and customer support is limited to digital channels.

bunq: Another fast and fully digital account, opened with your phone + ID in about 5 minutes.

Pros: Very quick to open, flexible multi-currency accounts, eco-friendly banking options, user-friendly app.
Cons: Monthly fees for most plans, no in-person service, and some features may be overwhelming for basic users.

Wise: A flexible account that works like a bank account and lets you hold funds in EUR with a German IBAN, great for international students and expats alike.

Pros: Low-cost currency exchange, German IBAN, ideal for managing international payments, and multi-currency support.
Cons: Not a full traditional bank (no overdraft or credit), no local branches, and limited local banking services like cash deposits.

🏦 Traditional Banks:

Standard banks with branches in Aachen that offer in-person support. You may need to book a branch appointment and visit in person to provide documents.

Sparkasse Aachen offers a classic Girokonto (checking/current account) with debit cards and in‑branch services.

Pros: In‑person support, large ATM network, German‑English services available.
Cons: May require Anmeldung and residency proof; some services are mainly in German.

Aachener Bank is a cooperative bank based in the region with standard accounts accessible through the app or a branch.

Pros: Local presence, personalized customer service.
Cons: International expats might find language and documentation requirements stricter than at neobanks.

Deutsche Bank offers a wide range of accounts, including expat-friendly and student options, with international services and English-language support.

Pros: Recognized globally, English-language banking, expat-tailored accounts, online banking, international wire support.
Cons: Can have monthly fees, an appointment is often required, slower onboarding is slower compared to neobanks.

Commerzbank has branches in Aachen and offers Giro accounts; sometimes bonuses are available for new customers.

Pros: National bank with English support in some branches.
Cons: Process can be slower; may require residence proof.

📝 2. Required Documents You’ll Typically Need

When opening a bank account in Aachen, you’ll generally need to bring:

Valid passport or ID.
German visa/residence permit card (non‑EU nationals).
Proof of Aachen residency / Anmeldung (registration certificate).
Proof of address (e.g., rental contract or utility bill).
Some banks may ask for employment or income details, but this isn’t always mandatory for basic accounts.

👉 Without Anmeldung, some traditional banks won’t open an account, so check options beforehand if you’re arriving from abroad. Some digital banks like Wise may allow account setup before you register your address, but you may need to complete address verification later.

💶 3. How Much to Open a Bank Account in Germany

Costs vary depending on the bank and account type:

Digital Banks: Often offer free basic accounts (e.g., N26 Standard has no maintenance fees).
Traditional Banks: Monthly fees can vary roughly from €0–€10+ depending on services and whether you are a student or regular customer.
Initial Deposit: Usually, there’s no mandatory initial deposit for standard accounts, but some banks reserve the right to require one.

Blocked account (if part of visa process): Not usually required for most expats, but comes with separate fees (see student guide).

🏙️ 4. Opening Your Account in Aachen

Digital Account Setup:

Most digital accounts (C24 Bank, N26, bunq, and Wise) can be opened online, you’ll typically upload your passport and confirm your identity by video or secure photo process. Once approved, you’ll get a German IBAN you can use immediately.

In-Person Setup:

For banks like Deutsche Bank or Aachener Bank, book an appointment and visit with your documents. You’ll sign the form and receive your debit card (Girocard).

💡 Quick Summary:

Choose based on how soon you need access (online first, local bank later), whether you want in‑person support in Aachen, and your language preferences.

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.