Steps on How to Open a Bank Account in Germany When Studying Ausbildung
Moving to Germany for your Ausbildung is an exciting step toward building a strong career in Europe. Before getting settled in Germany, however, you have one task you cannot avoid doing. That is to open a bank account in Germany. You would need this bank account for several reasons: to collect your stipends and also to register your address in the German city office.
If opening a bank account sounds intimidating and confusing to you, then no worries. This guide will simplify the whole process for you and make it easier for you to complete the process without any hassles.
Reasons Why You Need a German Bank Account
As an Ausbildung student, your employer would deposit your monthly salary into your German bank account. This same bank account would help you make payments for your health insurance, phone bills, and rent. Most landlords and universities in Germany do not accept any payments from accounts outside Germany.
Bank Accounts in Germany
First, before making any selection, here are some types of bank accounts in Germany you should know about.
Girokonto: This is a regular checking account for daily transactions such as depositing salary and paying bills among others.
Online Banks: These are digital banks such as N26 and DKB which are quite popular among international students since opening of the account can be done completely online.
Traditional Banks: Banks such as Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank, and Sparkasse among others have physical branches in Germany and are suitable for those who prefer face to face banking support.
Documents Required
Preparing yourself with the required documents beforehand will make the entire process easier for you. The following are the documents that most banks in Germany require.
A valid passport Your visa or residence permit Proof of residence in Germany, for instance, the rental agreement Your Ausbildung offer letter/training contract Anmeldung certificate after you register your address
The online banks are allowed to open accounts even without the Anmeldung certificate, which can really be helpful for those who are just settling in.
Steps to Follow when Opening Your Bank Account
Step 1: Choosing the Right Bank First, research which bank is the best choice for you. In case you value ease and quickness, online banking may be more suitable for you. If you need personal service, then you may consider a bank with physical locations.
Step 2: Filling Out the Application Online banks allow filling out forms on their official websites or apps as well as submitting your documents in electronic format. If you chose a regular bank, you may need to visit the branch personally or schedule an appointment.
Step 3: Completing Identity Verification German banks require verification of your identity either via Video Ident – video call where your identity is checked – or by visiting Deutsche Post’s office, also known as Post Ident.
Step 4: Waiting for Account Approval When your identity is verified, your application gets processed, and you receive your account information, card, and pin code within several days.
Step 5: Activating and Using Your Account After receiving your card and pin code, you should activate the account and use it for your everyday transactions, payroll deposit, and bills payment.
Hints for Hassle Free Banking
Get your account open at the earliest possible, preferably even before you get to Germany if the bank permits that. Make sure you have both electronic and hard copies of all your documents. Consider a bank which provides support in the English language until you are comfortable with German. Also make sure that your selected bank does not charge maintenance fees on your account.
Concluding
Opening your bank account while doing Ausbildung in Germany is neither difficult nor complicated if you have all the necessary documents with you. The whole process may take around one or two weeks of your time. This small yet vital step will make way for your successful Ausbildung experience in Germany.
At BCES Admissions Abroad, we provide comprehensive guidance to students in getting settled in Germany with their Ausbildung programs. Contact us at +91 9319996330 and make your Ausbildung experience in Germany simple and organized.