Banking Services for Expatriates
Understandably, you are very excited about visa approval, and moving to Germany! We are excited for you!
A new country, new opportunities, and a new life.
But before you can settle in properly, one of the very first things you must do is open a bank account. Without one, you cannot receive your salary, pay your rent, set up your mobile phone plan, or even pay many everyday bills.
For African expatriates — whether you are coming from Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, Ethiopia, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, or anywhere else on the continent — the German banking system can feel very different from what you are used to at home. Germany still uses a lot of cash. Banking rules are strict. And some of the paperwork can be confusing, especially if you are new to the country.
This guide is written in simple, clear English. It will walk you through everything you need to know — from the types of bank accounts available, to the documents you need, to the best banks for expats, and how to send money back home to your family in Africa.
Whether you are a student, a skilled worker, a refugee, or someone who just arrived in Germany, this article has the information you need.
You will never be happy if you continue to search for what happiness consists of. You will never live if you are looking for the meaning of life.
1. Why You Need a German Bank Account
You might think you can manage using your African bank account or an international card. In some cases, this can work for a short time. But if you are planning to stay in Germany for more than a few months, a German bank account is absolutely necessary. Here is why:
- German employers pay salaries only into German bank accounts (with a German IBAN number). You will not get paid otherwise.
- You need a bank account to pay rent. Most German landlords require a direct debit (Lastschrift) or a standing order (Dauerauftrag) from a German account.
- Utilities, internet, health insurance, and phone contracts all require a German bank account for automatic payments.
- Using a non-German card for everyday purchases can be expensive due to international transaction fees.
- Sending money back home to Africa is much cheaper and easier from a German bank account, especially when using specialised transfer services.
2. Types of Bank Accounts in Germany
Before opening an account, it helps to understand the different types that exist in Germany. Each one serves a different purpose.
a) Girokonto (Current Account / Checking Account)
This is the most common type of bank account in Germany. It works just like a regular current account. You use it to receive your salary, pay bills, make transfers, and shop with a debit card. Most expats will open a Girokonto as their main account. Some banks offer it for free, while others charge a monthly fee of between €3 and €10.
b) Basiskonto (Basic Payment Account) — Your Legal Right
This is a very important account for African expatriates to know about, especially if you are new to Germany or do not yet have all your documents in order.
Under the German Payment Accounts Act (Zahlungskontengesetz — ZKG), every person who is legally residing in the European Union has the legal right to open a basic payment account (Basiskonto). This includes refugees, asylum seekers, and people without a permanent registered address in Germany.
What does this mean for you? If you are legally in Germany, a bank cannot simply refuse to give you this account. By law, every bank that offers accounts to consumers must offer a Basiskonto. The bank can only refuse you in very specific situations, such as if you already have a German bank account or if there is a record of financial crime against you.
The Basiskonto works like a regular current account. You can receive money, make transfers, pay bills, and use a debit card. The one main limitation is that you cannot go into overdraft — you can only spend money that is already in your account.
Source: BaFin (Federal Financial Supervisory Authority, Germany): https://www.bafin.de/EN/Verbraucher/Bank/Produkte/Basiskonto/basiskonto_artikel_en.html
EU Directive on basic bank accounts: https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/consumers/financial-products-and-services/bank-accounts-eu/index_en.htm
c) Sparkonto (Savings Account)
A savings account is used to set money aside. You will earn a small amount of interest. It is not used for everyday spending. Once you have your main Girokonto, you may choose to open a savings account to build up an emergency fund.
d) Sperrkonto (Blocked Account) — For Students and Job Seekers
If you are coming to Germany as an international student or as a job seeker, you may need a blocked account (Sperrkonto) to apply for a visa. This is a special account that holds a fixed amount of money to show the German authorities that you can financially support yourself. As of 2025, students need to show at least €11,904 per year (€992 per month). The money is released to you in monthly amounts once you arrive in Germany.
3. Documents You Will Need to Open a Bank Account
The exact documents required depend on which bank you choose and which type of account you want. However, here is what you will typically need as an African expatriate:
| DOCUMENT | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Valid Passport | Required by all banks. Must be current and valid. |
| Meldebescheinigung | Registration certificate from your local city office (Bürgeramt). Required by most traditional banks. Not required for Basiskonto or most online banks. |
| Residence Permit (Aufenthaltstitel) | Required for non-EU citizens at traditional banks. May not be needed at digital banks (neobanks). |
| Steuer-ID (German Tax ID) | Some banks ask for this. It is automatically sent to your registered address after you complete your Anmeldung (address registration). |
| Proof of Income / Employment | Not always required, but some banks may ask for a pay slip or employment contract. |
4. Step-by-Step: How to Open a Bank Account in Germany
Step 1: Register Your Address (Anmeldung)
As soon as you arrive in Germany, you must register your address at the local registration office, called the Bürgeramt (or Einwohnermeldeamt). This process is called the Anmeldung. You will receive a document called the Meldebescheinigung, which is a registration certificate. This document is required by most traditional banks. Try to complete this step within the first two weeks of arriving. Note: if you are staying in temporary accommodation (e.g., a hostel, a friend’s place), you will need your landlord or host to sign a form called the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (landlord confirmation of residence) for you to complete the Anmeldung.
Step 2: Choose the Right Bank for You
Not all banks in Germany are equally friendly to non-EU expats. Some traditional banks (like local Sparkasse branches) can be slow and may require all documents to be perfect before opening an account. Online banks (neobanks) like N26 and bunq are much more flexible and can be opened entirely in English, often within minutes, using just your passport.
Step 3: Apply Online or Visit the Branch
Online banks: You can apply entirely online from your phone or computer. You will upload photos of your passport and complete a video identification call (called VideoIdent). This process usually takes about 10 to 30 minutes.
Traditional banks: You visit the nearest branch with all your documents. An appointment may be needed. Some banks also offer identity verification at a German Post Office (Deutsche Post), using a process called PostIdent.
Step 4: Complete Identity Verification
All German banks are legally required to verify your identity before opening an account. This is part of German anti-money laundering law (Geldwäschegesetz). You can verify your identity through a live video call, at a German Post Office (PostIdent), or in person at a bank branch.
Step 5: Receive Your Card and Start Banking
Once approved, your debit card (Girocard or Visa/Mastercard debit) will be sent to your registered address. Online banking access is usually set up immediately. You will then have a German IBAN (International Bank Account Number) that you can give to your employer, landlord, and service providers.
5. Best Banks for African Expatriates in Germany
Here is a practical overview of the most recommended banks and services for African expats in Germany:
N26 (Online Bank — Best for Beginners)
Best for: New arrivals who need a bank account fast, without all their paperwork ready.
- 100% online application in English
- Only requires your passport for identity verification
- No SCHUFA credit check (Germany’s credit score system)
- Free standard account with a Mastercard debit card
Note: You will need a German address for card delivery. If you do not have your Anmeldung yet, you can still apply — just give your current address.
Website: https://n26.com/en-de
Deutsche Bank (Traditional Bank — Best for Long-Term Residents)
Best for: Expats who have completed their Anmeldung and want the stability and services of a major traditional bank.
- English-speaking staff in most large city branches
- Online and mobile banking in English
- Offers a range of services including savings, loans, and investment accounts
- Monthly fees apply (typically around €6.90/month for the standard account)
Website: https://www.deutsche-bank.de/en/
DKB (Deutsche Kreditbank) — Best Free Account for Regular Income Earners
Best for: Expats with a regular income who want a free account with solid features.
- Free account when you deposit at least €700 per month
- Free cash withdrawals at ATMs worldwide
- Also offers a Basiskonto (basic account)
Website: https://www.dkb.de/en/
bunq — Best for Internationally Mobile Expats
Best for: Expats who travel frequently or who move between countries.
- Multi-currency accounts available
- Does not require Anmeldung to open
- Full English-language app and support
- Monthly fee starts from around €3.99
Website: https://www.bunq.com/
Wise (Multi-Currency Account) — Best for International Transfers
Best for: Expats who need to manage money in multiple currencies and send money home to Africa frequently.
Wise is not technically a German bank — it is a British fintech company. However, it gives you a European IBAN and is widely used by African expats in Germany because of its excellent international transfer rates and multi-currency features.
- Hold, send, and receive money in 40+ currencies
- Can be opened from outside Germany (even before you arrive)
- Transfers use the real mid-market exchange rate with low, transparent fees
- Not a full replacement for a German bank account — cannot receive German salary in all cases
Website: https://wise.com/
6. Understanding SCHUFA — Germany’s Credit Score System
SCHUFA (Schutzgemeinschaft für allgemeine Kreditsicherung) is Germany’s main credit reference agency — similar to credit bureaus in African countries. When you apply for a bank account, a mobile phone contract, or even a rental apartment, many organisations will check your SCHUFA score.
As a new arrival from Africa, you will have no SCHUFA history at all. This is different from having a bad credit score. Having no history is not automatically a reason for rejection — most traditional banks and neobanks understand this situation for new expats.
Important: Neobanks like N26 and bunq do not check SCHUFA at all. This makes them the safest option to open your first account in Germany. Once you have been using a German account for some time and have a regular income, your SCHUFA score will build up naturally.
You can check your SCHUFA report for free once per year. This is called a Datenkopie (data copy) and you can request it directly from SCHUFA at:
https://www.meineschufa.de/en/
7. Managing Your German Bank Account: Practical Tips
Once you have opened your account, here are some important things to know about managing it well in Germany:
Germany Still Uses a Lot of Cash
Unlike in Kenya where M-Pesa has made mobile payments very common, Germany still relies heavily on cash. Many small shops, restaurants, and markets do not accept card payments. Always carry some cash with you. You can withdraw cash for free at your bank’s own ATMs. Withdrawals at other banks’ ATMs can sometimes carry fees.
Set Up Standing Orders (Dauerauftrag) for Regular Bills
A standing order (Dauerauftrag) automatically transfers a fixed amount to the same account on a set date each month. This is the most common way to pay rent in Germany. You set it up once through your online banking, and it runs automatically. This way you never risk forgetting to pay your rent.
Direct Debits (Lastschrift) — Give Permission Carefully
When you sign contracts for utilities, insurance, or subscriptions, you often give the company permission to take money directly from your account. This is called a Lastschrift (direct debit). The good news is that under German law, you can reverse any direct debit within eight weeks if it was unauthorised or incorrect.
Always Inform the Bank If You Change Address
In Germany, you must officially register every time you change your home address (re-Anmeldung). Your bank also needs to be updated with your new address. Failing to do this can lead to important letters — including new cards and account notifications — being sent to the wrong address.
Avoid Overdraft Fees (Dispozinsen)
Many German bank accounts come with an overdraft facility, which allows you to spend more than what is in your account. However, the interest rates for overdrafts (called Dispozinsen) can be very high — sometimes over 10% per year. Only use your overdraft in genuine emergencies, and pay it back as quickly as possible.
8. Sending Money from Germany Back to Africa
One of the most important financial activities for African expatriates in Germany is sending money back home to support family. This is called a remittance. The good news is that there are now several very affordable and fast ways to do this from Germany.
Avoid sending money directly through traditional German banks. Bank wire transfers to Africa are usually very expensive (sometimes €15–€30 per transfer) and can take several days. Instead, use one of the specialised services below:
NALA — Best for East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda)
NALA is a Tanzanian fintech company that allows you to send money from Europe (including Germany) to East African countries. It supports M-Pesa in Kenya and Tanzania, mobile money in Uganda, and bank accounts. It offers competitive exchange rates and transparent fees.
Website: https://www.nala.com/
LemFi — Best for Nigeria, Ghana, and Broader Africa
LemFi allows transfers from Germany to over 30 countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Senegal, and Ivory Coast, often with zero transfer fees. It is popular in the West African diaspora community.
Website: https://lemfi.com/
Remitly — Best for Wide African Coverage
Remitly supports transfers to over 40 African countries. Recipients can receive money directly into a bank account, mobile money wallet, or even as cash pickup. It is easy to use and available in English.
Website: https://www.remitly.com/
WorldRemit — Good for Multiple Countries and Delivery Options
WorldRemit is well known for its broad Africa coverage and flexible payout options. You can send money to mobile wallets like M-Pesa, bank accounts, and cash pickup points across many African countries.
Website: https://www.worldremit.com/
Tip: Always compare exchange rates and fees before sending. Even a small difference in exchange rates can make a big difference when you are sending larger amounts. You can use comparison websites like Monito (www.monito.com) to compare transfer services in real time.
Monito comparison tool: https://www.monito.com/
9. Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
“The Bank Rejected My Application”
If a bank rejects your application for a regular account, do not give up. Remember: you have a legal right to a Basiskonto. Apply specifically for a Basiskonto at any bank. Under German law, the bank must accept your application unless there is a very specific legal reason to refuse it. If you are refused a Basiskonto, you can file a complaint with BaFin (the German financial regulator) at www.bafin.de.
“I Don’t Have My Anmeldung Yet”
Start with a neobank like N26 or bunq. These banks accept new applications without the Meldebescheinigung (registration certificate). You can open your account, get your IBAN, and start receiving money immediately. Complete the Anmeldung as soon as possible after that.
“Everything Is in German”
Online banks like N26, Wise, bunq, and Revolut offer their apps and customer support entirely in English. For traditional banks, Deutsche Bank and Commerzbank also offer English-language services in major cities. If you are using a Sparkasse or local savings bank, consider using a translation app or asking a German-speaking friend to accompany you.
“My Documents From Home Are Not Accepted”
Some banks require foreign documents to be officially authenticated. Depending on your country of origin, you may need an apostille (a type of international stamp of authenticity) or a document legalised by a German consulate. Check with the specific bank about their requirements for your country. Countries that have signed the Hague Apostille Convention can use apostilles for most official documents.
10. Quick Reference: Key German Banking Terms
Here are some German banking words you will see often:
| GERMAN TERM | WHAT IT MEANS |
|---|---|
| Girokonto | Current / Checking Account |
| Basiskonto | Basic Payment Account (your legal right) |
| Sparkonto | Savings Account |
| Sperrkonto | Blocked Account (for students/visa purposes) |
| Meldebescheinigung | Address Registration Certificate |
| Anmeldung | The process of registering your address |
| Dauerauftrag | Standing Order (automatic regular payment) |
| Lastschrift | Direct Debit |
| Girocard | German debit card (also called EC-Karte) |
| IBAN | International Bank Account Number |
| Steuer-ID | German Tax Identification Number |
| SCHUFA | Germany's credit reference agency |
| Dispozinsen | Overdraft interest charges |
| PostIdent | Identity verification done at a Post Office |
| VideoIdent | Identity verification via a video call |
You Can Do This
Opening a bank account in Germany as an African expatriate may feel complicated at first. There is paperwork, unfamiliar processes, and a language barrier. But the good news is that Germany’s laws actually protect you as a foreigner — you have a legal right to a basic bank account, and there are excellent online banks that make the process fast and simple in English.
The most important advice is this: as soon as you arrive, register your address (Anmeldung) and open an account with an online bank like N26 or bunq — this can be done in minutes with just your passport. Once you are settled, you can switch to or add a more full-featured traditional bank.
And when it comes to sending money back home to Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, or elsewhere — use dedicated money transfer services like NALA, LemFi, or Remitly instead of your bank’s international transfer. You will save a significant amount of money in fees and get better exchange rates.
Germany has a strong and reliable banking system. Once you are inside it, your financial life here will become much easier. Good luck, and welcome to Germany!
