Opening a bank account in Germany from France: which one to choose?

Germany has one of Europe’s most developed and organised banking systems. Opening a bank account there can be straightforward — provided you have the right documents. Here’s everything you need to know.

If you need to send or receive money between France and Germany, consider a Wise account. It lets you make international transfers easily and transparently, with no hidden fees — and you can open one online for free in just a few minutes.

Discover the Wise account

Can I open a German bank account from France or online?

While some banks require you to visit a branch, many allow you to apply online.
That said, it’s often easier to open your account in person. Most German banking websites — including those of major banks — are entirely in German, which can make the online application process challenging.

In most cases, you’ll still need to be physically in Germany to finalise your application. Certain documents, such as proof of address (Meldebescheinigung), can only be obtained once you’re in the country.

The Wise multi-currency account: a modern alternative for borderless banking

Traditional bank accounts often work best only in one country and one currency. The Wise account, however, was designed for people who live, work, or travel between countries.

With Wise, you can send, receive, and hold multiple currencies at once — always using the mid-market exchange rate. You also get your own local account details in euros (and other currencies), which makes it easy to receive payments or manage expenses in Germany from France.

Which bank is best for non-residents opening an account in Germany?

Germany’s banking sector is divided into three categories:

• Private banks (e.g. Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank)
• Cooperative banks (Volksbanken, Raiffeisenbanken)
• Public banks (Sparkassen)

All offer standard services such as current accounts, savings accounts, and business banking. However, opening an account as a non-resident can be more complex.

Below are the main German banks that offer accounts suitable for foreigners.

Deutsche Bank

Deutsche Bank is one of the world’s largest financial institutions and a well-known international bank.

Its BestKonto and AktivKonto accounts include a Mastercard credit card and can be opened online (though the site is in German).

• BestKonto has higher fees but includes travel insurance and emergency support.¹
• Deutsche Bank also offers business accounts, such as KanzleiKonto, designed for professionals like lawyers and accountants.

Commerzbank

Commerzbank offers a standard current account and a PremiumKonto, which includes two debit cards and travel insurance.²

Students aged 18–30 can apply for the free StartKonto, which comes with a youth Visa card.²

Commerzbank also provides professional accounts, business services, and point-of-sale systems.
While the website is available in English, account applications must be completed in person.

Postbank

Postbank’s Das Online-Konto is free, provided you deposit at least €900 per month; otherwise, a €5.90 fee applies.³
Its student account, Das junge Konto, is free for customers under 22.³

The Business Giro account includes business tools such as a commercial credit line and tax integration.³

Need to send or receive international transfers? You’ll need your Postbank IBAN.

HypoVereinsbank (UniCredit)

Part of the UniCredit group, HypoVereinsbank (HVB) offers a variety of current accounts that can be opened online (German-only website).

The HVB Konto Start account is for students under 25.⁴ The bank also provides professional accounts for freelancers and entrepreneurs.

Need to send or receive international transfers? Use your HypoVereinsbank IBAN.

💡 Did you know? With the Wise account, you can get a euro account number in your name to receive money and spend in Germany like a local.

What documents do you need to open a German bank account?

You’ll typically need:

• Passport or national ID (for EU citizens)
• Proof of registration (Meldebescheinigung)
• Student enrollment confirmation (for student accounts)

Some banks may also request proof of income, such as payslips or employment letters.

Meldebescheinigung (proof of registration)

If you plan to live in Germany, you must register your address at the local Bürgeramt (city hall). This document — the Meldebescheinigung — acts as official proof of residence and is required for most administrative procedures, including opening a bank account.

To obtain it, complete the form available on your local Bürgeramt website and bring it, along with your passport or ID, to the office.

Online identity verification

German banks are legally required to verify your identity.

If you open an account online, this is usually done through the PostIdent process — available at local post offices. You present your ID and verification form, and the postal worker confirms your identity for the bank (usually free of charge).

Alternatively, you can verify your identity via a notary or lawyer, or sometimes through your home bank (depending on nationality and bank policy).

Typical banking fees in Germany

Most German banks offer free basic accounts that include a debit card and online banking.
Premium accounts come with extra services such as travel insurance but charge monthly fees.

ATM withdrawals

Germany’s largest banks form part of the Cash Group, allowing free ATM withdrawals within the network (Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank, Postbank, HypoVereinsbank).

Using ATMs outside this group can result in fees. Some premium accounts include free international withdrawals, but the exchange rates applied are often less favourable.

To avoid both poor exchange rates and fees, consider the Wise debit card, which lets you withdraw money abroad up to €200/month (2 withdrawals) for free, with low fees thereafter.

International transfers

German banks generally charge fees for transfers outside the eurozone.
Even when they advertise “no commission,” they often hide the cost in a marked-up exchange rate.
You should also check if the receiving bank charges a fee.

With Wise, pay and withdraw easily — at lower cost in Germany

The Wise account lets you manage your finances seamlessly across borders.

With Wise, you can:

• Hold and convert 40+ currencies at the mid-market exchange rate.
• Withdraw up to €200/month for free from any ATM (max. 2 withdrawals).
• Spend abroad with your Wise debit card without hidden fees.
• Manage your account easily from the mobile app (iOS and Android).

If you’re moving to Germany or travelling frequently, Wise could be the ideal solution — transparent, secure, and low-cost.

More information about
the Wise account

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Sources:

1. Deutsche Bank Accounts
2. Commerzbank Accounts
3. PostBank Accounts
4. HypoVereinsbank Accounts

Last verified on October 21, 2025

This article is a translation of the original article published in French and was translated within 365 days of publication. While the content has been translated for accessibility, the data and sources referenced have not been updated since the original publication date.