Decide on bank account retention or closure at departure

Overview

Use this when preparing to leave Germany permanently. Decide whether to keep or close your German account; if keeping it, update your contact address abroad.

Timing to be aware of

On leaving Germany

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

Key date to check

Departure date

Common questions

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

• My visa expires in 72 hours and the Foreigners' Office hasn't replied. Am I illegal?
• The Foreigners' Office never replies to my emails. How can I get a response?
• The online application for my visa renewal is showing a Technical Error. What is the fallback?
• My visa was approved but the physical card takes 8-12 weeks. Why?
• I already left Germany but forgot to do my Abmeldung. Is this a problem?

Related events

• Check special Hausrat cancellation rules when leaving Germany
  Medium
  On leaving Germany
• Permit lapse risk after Abmeldung
  Critical
  After Abmeldung
• Submit Abmeldung
  High
  On move-out or leaving Germany
• Rentenübertragung (pension transfer) from abroad
  High
  When triggered
• Confirm final filing schedule before departure
  High
  90 days before departure