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Open a Bank Account in Germany

How to Open a Bank Account in Germany

A bank account in a European bank is one of the most reliable ways to protect your assets to the maximum. For a legal entity, it is an absolute necessity, as business activities are inextricably linked with transactions both inside the country and abroad. An account in Germany is one of the most profitable options in offshore banking.

Why It’s Profitable to Have an Account in a German Bank

German banks attract clients not only with favorable conditions of cooperation, but also with privileges for regular clients and large asset depositors. For example, deposits are insured for an amount starting from €100,000. Many non-residents are interested in how to open a bank account in Germany, since local institutions have an impeccable reputation. Banking in Germany is focused on comprehensive service for every client. Financial institutions offer favorable rates, transparent account opening conditions, and a wide range of banking products. Overall, opening a bank account in Germany is advantageous for the following reasons:

  • Most banks operate only on the condition of mandatory client deposit insurance.
  • A card can be linked to any type of account.
  • A high level of confidentiality is guaranteed.

Currently, you can open the following types of accounts in Germany:

  • Current account (“Girokonto”). A standard type used for receiving salaries and paying bills.
  • Savings account (“Sparkonto”). Used for saving funds. It can be fixed-term or with instant access.
  • Accounts for non-residents. To open a bank account in Germany, a non-resident must have permanent residence registration in the country, since current and savings accounts are available only to residents. Legal entities must prepare a package of documents proving business activity in Germany.
  • Mobile bank account. Many banks offer online account opening in Germany — this service is available to residents and to those living abroad but conducting business in the country. The use of mobile applications is widespread in Germany; some institutions operate exclusively online and offer mobile-only banking services.

Steps

01

Choosing a Bank in Germany

First of all, you need to select the desired bank. At the same time, you should consider the bank’s reliability, fees, and preferences regarding client segments. It is advisable to apply to several banks at once to increase the likelihood of account opening.

02

Document Preparation

You must prepare the company’s incorporation documents, considering requirements for issuance dates and notarization format, personal documents of company participants, as well as fill out bank forms. Proper completion of the forms and accurate presentation of information play an important role.

03

Application Submission

After preparing all documents, they must be submitted to the bank. During the review process, the bank may send additional questions and requests for documents. It is important to provide accurate and timely responses. Application review may be subject to a fee, in which case payment must be made upon submission.

04

Verification

Banks usually require representatives of the company to visit their office for verification.

05

Receiving Access and Account Details

Once the account is successfully opened, the bank assigns company details and provides access credentials. To fully activate the account, it may be necessary to promptly make a minimum deposit, from which an account opening fee (if applicable) may be deducted.

Which Banks in Germany Allow Foreigners to Open an Account

Before opening an account in a German bank, you should pay attention to the institution’s reputation and the conditions of service. For example, banks that allow non-residents to open deposits often impose high fees for other services but at the same time guarantee a more professional investment portfolio. Therefore, to open an account in a German bank on favorable terms, it is advisable to additionally consult an expert in international banking services.

Among the most popular banks are:

  • Comdirect. Works with residents and non-residents. Offers low rates and gives private clients a €50 bonus.
  • Deutsche Bank AG. Opening a bank account in Germany is available to both legal entities and individuals regardless of citizenship. Works with corporate clients.
  • Varengold Bank AG. Guarantees high confidentiality, works exclusively with investment accounts.
  • Commerzbank AG. Provides standard banking services. Here you can open a bank account in Germany under classic conditions, with savings, current, and corporate accounts available. The institution is represented in 50 countries worldwide.
  • Wirecard Bank AG. Works with residents and non-residents, specializes in issuing cards, including virtual ones.
  • HRW Bank. Works only with corporate accounts and participates in financing government institutions.
  • Net-m privatbank 1891 AG. Suitable for companies and individuals when personal account opening in Germany is not possible, as it specializes in remote online registration. The bank also issues Visa and MasterCard standard cards.
  • Fidor Bank AG. Opens current and deposit accounts, works with individuals and legal entities.

How to Open a Bank Account in Germany for Non-Residents

To open a bank account in Germany as a non-resident, you should consider a number of nuances:

  • Banks often offer multi-currency accounts, which is very convenient for foreign clients. Maintenance costs can be almost zero if a certain monthly turnover is maintained. This point should be clarified before opening a bank account in Germany, as requirements vary.
  • The number of documents required depends on the bank. For individuals, an ID, tax identification number, and entry permit to the country will be needed. To open a bank account in Germany for a legal entity, corporate documents under an apostille, a company activity description, notarized copies of international passports, and proof of residence for all shareholders, founders, and beneficiaries will be required. During the decision-making process, the bank may request additional documents or refuse cooperation without explanation.

Thus, opening an account in a German bank is a complex procedure, taking from 3 to 5 weeks. To avoid mistakes in the document collection process and minimize the risk of refusal, we recommend contacting our company. Experts at Incluence Limited will handle the preparation and submission of documents, as well as explain the details of account management. You can receive your first consultation on how to open an account in Germany at any convenient time — contact us online or via the contact details provided on the website. On our resource, you can also find individual information about the operations of Germany’s leading banks.

Free initial consultation on legal issues, related to the daily activities of the business

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Frequently Asked Questions:

To open an account in German banks, you must complete and submit the bank’s KYC and AML forms, provide the company’s incorporation documents and personal documents of directors and beneficiaries. The bank may additionally request contracts with partners and other information. For successful account opening, key persons must undergo verification.
We select banks based on the company’s country of registration, the residency of beneficiaries and directors, planned turnover, required currencies, and payment regions. The bank’s reputation and fees are also taken into account. To choose the most suitable option for your company, please contact our specialists.
For a company with a non-resident founder to open an account in a German bank, it must have a local director. However, for a company registered in Germany without a local director, an account can be opened in a payment system or in banks outside Germany. The likelihood of account opening is significantly higher if handled by specialists.
To open an account in a German bank, a personal visit to the bank or its foreign representative office is required.

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