Open a Girokonto

Overview

Use this within two weeks of arrival when you need a German bank account. Anmeldung, residence status, and often Steuer-ID are required for salary deposits and rent payments.

Timing to be aware of

14 days after arrival

Reference only — your timing may differ. Confirm with the relevant office.

Key date to check

Arrival date

Common questions

Questions people often look up at this stage. Answers are general — confirm with the relevant office or a qualified professional.

• What is Anmeldung and why is it the first thing I need to do?
• How do I register within 14 days if all online appointments are booked for months?
• I moved to a new apartment. What is the Ummeldung process?
• I need a bank account to sign my rental lease, but I can't get an Anmeldung without a lease—how do I break this loop?
• I've tried the video call verification five times, but the agent keeps hanging up saying my passport is "not supported."

Related events

• Check right to apply for Basiskonto
  High
  After arrival
• Health insurance and bank account setup
  High
  30 days after arrival
• Confirm Haftpflichtversicherung enrollment
  High
  30 days after arrival
• Enroll in health insurance after arrival
  Critical
  14 days after arrival
• Anmeldung (residence registration)
  Critical
  14 days after arrival