Geschäftskonto (business bank account) opening

Overview

Use this when starting registered business activity. Open a business bank account (Geschäftskonto)—not legally required for sole traders but strongly recommended.

Timing to be aware of

When triggered

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

What you'll need

• ID
• Gewerbeanmeldung or Freiberufler confirmation
• Steuernummer

Common questions

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

• My freelance visa application was rejected. What are my options?
• I have a Steuer-ID but my client says I need a Steuernummer. Are they the same?
• My visa says Selbstständige Tätigkeit nicht gestattet. Can I do freelance work?
• 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

• Gewerbeanmeldung (business registration)
  Critical
  When triggered
• Freiberufler registration with Finanzamt
  Critical
  When triggered
• Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung submission
  Critical
  When triggered
• Steuernummer für Selbstständige receipt
  Critical
  When triggered
• Einnahmen-Überschuss-Rechnung (EÜR) annual filing
  Critical
  Recurring