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Best Free Bank Accounts in Germany for Expats: 2026 Comparison

Christian - German Relocation & Expat Banking Advisor

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Finding the best free bank account in Germany as an expat can be challenging. Many German banks require an Anmeldung, check your SCHUFA record, or offer limited support in English. Others advertise a free Girokonto (German term for “checking account”) but charge for the debit card, girocard, cash withdrawals, or account management unless you meet certain conditions.

The good news: You don’t have to pay for premium banking. To help you choose, we have compared the best free German bank accounts in 2026. Our comparison covers monthly fees, English-language banking, online account opening, Anmeldung and residency requirements, as well as complimentary banking cards and ATM withdrawals.

Whether you have just moved to Germany, need a bank account without an Anmeldung, or want an expat-friendly current account with no monthly fee, these are the best options to consider—including the important conditions and limitations of each account.

Editor’s Picks: The Best Free German Bank Accounts

Compare Free “Girokonto” Bank Accounts in Germany

The following side-by-side comparison covers the top free checking accounts (Girokonto) in Germany, including key features, hidden fees, card terms, English support, and eligibility requirements.

Which Free Bank Account Fits Your Situation?

The best free bank account depends on your personal situation. Newcomers may need an account without Anmeldung, while long-term residents may prioritize a Girocard, cash deposits or branch access. The following recommendations help you narrow down the comparison based on the features that usually matter most to expats in Germany.

Best Bank Accounts to Open Without Anmeldung or From Abroad

Opening an account without Anmeldung and opening one from abroad are not always the same. Some providers accept customers who already live at a German address but have not yet received their registration certificate. Others also allow applications while you still reside in another supported country.

Both can be useful if you need an account shortly before or after moving. However, not requiring an Anmeldung does not mean that every applicant is eligible. Availability may still depend on your country of residence, nationality, tax status, and accepted identification documents.

Among the accounts in our comparison, the following options stand out for newcomers without a German registration certificate:

Best free account without Anmeldung: N26 Standard

N26 Standard is a strong option for newcomers who already live in Germany but have not yet received their Anmeldung. Applicants do not need to be EU or EEA citizens: N26 supports selected identification documents from many non-European nationalities, including foreign passports for customers residing in Germany. N26 may also request additional proof of address or residence status during the application process.

Furthermore, you can apply from abroad if you reside outside Germany in another supported European country. The account is managed entirely online and includes an English-language app and customer support. Read our detailed N26 Standard review.

Best before moving from another European country: bunq Free

bunq can be a practical option if you currently live in a supported European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA) country and want to organize your banking before moving to Germany.

The application is completed online, and bunq states that some applicants may register even if they do not yet have a fixed address. However, proof of residence may still be requested, and eligibility depends on your EEA residence or citizenship and tax status. The available IBAN and account features may also depend on your residence and chosen plan.

Best before moving from outside Europe: Wise

Wise is particularly useful for newcomers who want to receive, hold, and exchange money before moving to Germany. The account is available in many countries worldwide, supports more than 40 currencies, and has no monthly account fee. It can also provide EUR account details for receiving payments. However, Wise is primarily an international payment account and may not offer all the features of a traditional German current account, such as a German IBAN, girocard, cash withdrawals, direct debits, or overdraft facilities. It is therefore more a temporary solution for the first weeks or short-term stays.

Important

Not requiring an Anmeldung is only one part of the eligibility check. Providers may still request proof of address (rental contract, electricity bills, etc.), residence rights, tax information, or additional identification documents. Check the current requirements before applying.

Best Bank Accounts for English-Speaking Expats

An English-language banking app can make everyday tasks much easier when you are new to Germany. However, an English app does not always mean that customer support, account-opening assistance, or every legal document is also available in English.

Among the accounts in our comparison, the following options stand out for expats who prefer to manage their finances in English.

Best free English account overall: N26 Standard

N26 Standard is our strongest overall free account option for English-speaking expats who want a fully digital German bank account. The app can be used in English, Italian, Spanish, French, and German. N26 provides account openings and customer support through its in-app chat in all of those languages. N26 Standard also comes with a German IBAN and can be opened entirely online.

The main limitation is that N26 has no branch network. Standard customers primarily receive support through chat, while telephone support is reserved for customers with a paid premium plan. The free account includes a virtual debit card, but a physical card costs extra. Read our review of the free N26 account.

Best no-fee traditional bank with branch access: Santander BestGiro

Santander BestGiro is a good option for English-speaking expats who prefer a traditional bank with both digital banking and personal branch access. The MySantander app is available in English and German, and you can open an account online or at one of Santander’s branches in Germany. Usually, the online process is quicker, and some promotions (e.g. welcome bonuses) are only available when opening online. However, the website, contractual documents, telephone support, and parts of the account-opening process may still be provided primarily in German.

The branch network makes Santander particularly useful if you occasionally want to discuss banking matters in person rather than relying entirely on chat-based support. English-speaking assistance may be available at individual branches, especially in larger cities, but it is not guaranteed at every location. Contact your local branch in advance if you need an appointment in English.

The BestGiro account has no monthly account fee or minimum deposit requirement and includes a Visa debit card. A free optional Visa credit card is also available. Read our detailed Santander BestGiro review.

Best sustainable German account without fees: Tomorrow Now

Tomorrow Now is worth considering if you want a free English-language German current account with a focus on sustainability. The mobile app is available in English and German, and Tomorrow provides an English-language website, opening, help center, as well as contact options through chat and email. The account includes a German IBAN and physical/virtual debit cards.

Tomorrow Now is free for customers under 21 or when at least €500 is paid into the account each month. Otherwise, a monthly account fee applies.

Important

Language options may change. Some banks provide an English app, but the account opening process, customer service, and legal documents may not be available in English. Before applying, check which English options are available.

Best Free Student Bank Accounts in Germany

Students in Germany have the privilege of getting special offers that waive monthly fees or include extra perks. However, they do not necessarily need a dedicated student account. Several regular German current accounts waive their monthly fee for all young people based on age only. This means you do not need to provide proof of enrollment.

The best choice depends on what matters most to you: English-language banking, a strong combination of payment cards, or convenient access to cash. Among the accounts in our comparison, the following three options stand out.

Best account overall for international students: bunq Pro

bunq Pro offers one of the most comprehensive free banking packages available to international university students. Students enrolled at a university in Germany or one of seven other supported European countries can use the plan without paying its regular monthly fee of €9.99. To receive the discount, you need to submit a valid certificate of enrollment through the bunq app.

The account is particularly attractive for students who want to manage their finances in English or another preferred language. It includes up to 25 accounts with individual IBANs, three physical Mastercard debit cards, 25 digital cards, and six free ATM withdrawals per month. Students residing in Germany receive German IBANs, and bunq allows new customers to submit their tax identification number within 90 days of opening the account. Support is available through the app around the clock.

The main limitation is that the student discount is temporary. Once you complete your university studies or turn 26, bunq Pro costs €9.99 per month unless you switch to another plan. The offer is also limited to university students in the supported countries and requires proof of enrollment.

Best card package for students: Consorsbank Girokonto

The Consorsbank Girokonto is a strong option for students who want both a traditional German Girocard and a free Visa card. The account is free for everyone under 31, regardless of whether they are enrolled at a university. After that, it remains free with at least €700 in monthly incoming payments; otherwise, the account costs €4 per month.

When opening the account, customers can choose a free Visa Card Debit or the free Credit Card Gold Light and add a free Girocard. The Visa Debit is useful for everyday payments and free euro withdrawals of at least €50 within the European Economic Area. The Credit Card Gold Light is a genuine monthly billed credit card that can be used for worldwide payments and cash withdrawals without a Consorsbank transaction fee. A personal credit limit is assigned individually, so students without regular income or an established German credit history should not assume that a high credit limit will be approved.

Consorsbank is particularly suitable for students who want a Girocard for everyday use in Germany and a Visa card for online purchases, travel, hotels, or car rentals. Even though the mobile app is available in English, it is a German-focused direct bank without branches, and its website, application process, contractual documents, and customer service are primarily provided in German.

Best traditional student account with branches: Commerzbank StartKonto

The Commerzbank StartKonto is a good choice for students who prefer a traditional German bank with personal branch access. The account is free for students, trainees, interns, and other eligible young customers up to their 28th birthday, provided they submit valid proof of their educational or training status. No minimum monthly deposit is required.

The account includes a Girocard with free cash withdrawals at Commerzbank and other Cash Group ATMs. Moreover, students or apprentices can get a free Visa credit card with a real credit limit and reduced income requirements.

Commerzbank StartKonto can be opened online or at a Commerzbank branch. The online banking, mobile application, and customer service are provided in both English and German.

From the 28th birthday, the monthly fee is €9.90, but you can switch to a cheaper account model such as the Commerzbank GiroKonto.

Important

Check your eligibility for a student account. Common traps are:

  • Age limit: Some options are not available for students in their 30s
  • Required student documentation: Not every (private) university is accepted by banks

Best Joint Accounts for Couples without Monthly Fees

A joint account can make it easier to manage shared expenses such as rent, utilities, groceries, travel, or childcare. Many couples use a three-account system: both partners keep their personal accounts and transfer an agreed amount to a separate joint account each month.

Both account holders generally receive their own banking access and can manage the shared money independently. Before opening an account, check whether both partners receive a payment card, whether a minimum monthly deposit is required, and whether you must already have an individual account with the bank.

Among the joint accounts in our comparison, the following options stand out.

Best free joint account overall: C24 SMART

The C24 SMART joint account is our strongest overall option for couples who want a feature-rich account without a monthly fee or minimum incoming payment requirement. Both partners are equal account holders, and the joint account has its own IBAN.

The account includes up to four joint “pockets” (sub-accounts) with separate IBANs, which couples can use to organize shared expenses and savings goals. For example, you could create separate pockets for rent, holidays, household costs, and larger purchases. C24 also provides a free virtual Mastercard for the joint account. Both partners can connect their existing physical C24 Mastercard or girocard to the shared account and switch between their personal and joint accounts in the app.

The main limitation is that both partners must first open their own C24 current account. The joint account cannot currently be opened as a standalone account by people who are not already C24 customers. However, this also makes it very easy to transfer and organize funds between your individual accounts and joint accounts. Even though being very user-friendly, the C24 app and services are only provided in German. Read our detailed review of the free C24 joint account.

Best German joint account for flexible online opening: comdirect Girokonto Aktiv

The comdirect Girokonto Aktiv joint account is a good option for couples who want an easy online application and identification process. Both partners receive their own banking access and a free Visa debit card, while an optional girocard can be added for €1 per person per month. Couples who need a Visa credit card with a credit limit can also choose one of comdirect’s paid account models.

Unlike some other German joint accounts, the two account holders do not need to have the same residential address. However, both must be tax residents of the same country. This can make comdirect particularly useful for couples who have not yet officially moved in together.

The account is free for the first six months. After that, no monthly account fee applies if at least €700 is paid into the account each month or if one of the applicable young-customer conditions is met. Otherwise, the account costs €4.90 per month. Read our review of the free comdirect joint account.

Attractive joint account with a direct bank: DKB Gemeinschaftskonto

The DKB Gemeinschaftskonto is a strong option for couples who regularly travel or spend money outside Germany. If at least €700 is paid into the account each month or at least one account holder is under 28, both account holders receive DKB’s active-customer benefits. These include waiving monthly fees, free Visa Debit cards for both account holders, free card payments and ATM withdrawals worldwide, and reduced overdraft fees. A credit card or girocard is available against an additional fee.

Both partners receive separate online banking access and can independently make payments, transfers, and other transactions. The account is operated as an “Oder-Konto”, which means that either account holder can use the account without requiring approval from the other. The two partners do not need to live at the same address. Read our detailed review of the DKB joint account.

Important

A joint account gives both account holders access to the shared balance and may make both partners responsible for debts or an overdraft. Consider keeping personal income and individual expenses in separate accounts and using the joint account only for agreed shared costs.

Best Free Accounts with Branches and Cash Services

Digital banks are convenient, but they are not always the best choice if you regularly use cash or prefer discussing more complex banking matters in person. Traditional and hybrid banks may offer branches, their own ATMs, cash deposits, and access to larger cash networks.

Before choosing an account, check whether branch transactions are included in the free account plan. A bank may offer physical branches while still charging for assisted transfers, counter services, or cash deposits.

Best overall traditional free account: Santander BestGiro

Santander BestGiro is our strongest overall option for customers who want a permanently free current account combined with access to physical branches. The account has no monthly maintenance fee and does not require a minimum incoming payment. It can be opened either online or at a Santander branch.

The included Visa debit card provides free cash withdrawals at ATMs worldwide and participating German retailers, subject to the retailer’s minimum purchase requirement. Customers can also apply for a free credit card.

Santander is particularly suitable if you often deposit cash, as deposits are free of charge at the bank counter. There, you can also get help with account questions, financial advice, or assistance with the account-switching service. Read our detailed review of Germany’s best free bank account with branches.

Best for cash deposits and retailer cash services: TARGOBANK Online-Konto

The TARGOBANK Online-Konto is a good option for customers who want digital banking while retaining access to an extensive branch and cash-service network. The account is free when at least €600 in salary is paid into it each month. Otherwise, TARGOBANK charges a monthly account fee of €3.95. The account can be opened completely online.

Customers can withdraw cash free of charge at TARGOBANK ATMs and at approximately 2,800 CashPool partner ATMs in Germany. Cash is also available at participating retailers. TARGOBANK operates around 340 branches in more than 250 German cities, although the Online-Konto is primarily intended for digital self-service and some assisted branch transactions may cost extra.

A major advantage is TARGOBANK’s app-based cash service. It allows customers to withdraw up to €300 without making a purchase or deposit up to €999 per day at more than 12,000 participating retailers. The first €100 of cash deposits per month is free; a fee of 1.5% applies to additional deposits. These conditions also apply to deposits at the TARGOBANK teller.

Best for nationwide cash deposits without branch banking: norisbank Top-Girokonto

The norisbank Top-Girokonto is a strong alternative if convenient cash deposits and withdrawals matter more to you than personal branch advice. The account is free for customers under 30 or when at least €500 is paid into it each month. Otherwise, it costs €3.90 for each month in which the requirement is not met.

norisbank is a full subsidiary of Germany’s largest private bank, Deutsche Bank, and therefore offers a compelling edge: The included norisbank Card can be used for free cash withdrawals at around 4,500 Cash Group ATMs operated by Deutsche Bank, Postbank, Commerzbank, and HypoVereinsbank. Customers can also withdraw cash at more than 22,000 participating retailers. Furthermore, indefinite complimentary cash deposits are possible using Deutsche Bank’s self-service machines.

Subject to a credit check, customers may add a free Mastercard Credit that provides free payments and cash withdrawals of at least €50 at Mastercard ATMs worldwide. This legit credit card is also fully suitable for hotel reservations or rental car bookings.

Unlike Santander and TARGOBANK, norisbank does not operate its own branch network for personal advice. It is therefore best suited to customers who want broad access to cash but are comfortable managing their account online.

Important

Branch access does not automatically mean that every service is free. Check the fees for cash deposits, counter withdrawals, paper transfers, and other assisted transactions before opening an account. English-speaking assistance may be available at individual branches, but it is generally not guaranteed.

Are you self-employed?

The accounts on this page are primarily intended for personal banking. Freelancers and business owners should check whether business transactions are permitted or open a dedicated business account.

What to Check Before Opening a Free Bank Account?

A bank account advertised as free is not necessarily free in every situation. Before applying, look beyond the monthly maintenance fee and check the eligibility requirements, card costs, cash withdrawal limits, foreign-currency fees, and deposit protection.

The right account should not only cost €0 per month. It should also match your residence status, identification documents, preferred payment methods, and everyday banking needs in Germany.

4.1 Is the Account Really Free?

German banks use the term “free account” in different ways. Some accounts have no monthly fee without any conditions, while others are free only if you receive a certain amount of money each month, are below an age limit, or belong to a specific customer group.

Even when the monthly maintenance fee is €0, additional charges may apply for physical cards, girocards, cash deposits, ATM withdrawals, paper transfers, foreign-currency transactions, or an overdraft.

Truly free (no monthly fees)

No monthly account fee and no minimum incoming payment requirement.

Conditionally free (waiving monthly fees)

The monthly fee is waived only if you meet a requirement, i.e.:

  • Receiving minimum incoming payments (e.g., €500). Some banks accept any regular transfer, while others may require a salary, pension, or government benefit.
  • Educational status (e.g., student, trainee) or maximum age (e.g., free up to 28 years)

Additional charges

There is no monthly account fee (with or without conditions), but certain services, such as a physical bank card, cash withdrawals, or foreign currency transactions, incur an extra charge.

4.2 Residence, Anmeldung, and Identification

Not every German bank requires an Anmeldung (registered address in Germany), but every regulated provider must verify your identity. The documents and procedures accepted to get a free German bank account vary considerably between banks.

Depending on the provider, you may need:

  • a valid passport or national identity card;
  • a residential address in Germany or another supported country;
  • a German registration certificate;
  • a residence permit or visa;
  • a German tax identification number;
  • proof of student/educational status or income;
  • additional information about your tax residence or source of funds.

Identification is usually performed online but can also happen in person. While different options are available, not every bank offers all of them:

  • VideoIdent: Applicants show their identity document through a video call
  • PhotoIdent: Applicants take a photo of themselves and their identity document with a smartphone
  • eID: Applicants scan their German national ID card (Personalausweis) or German residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel) with the NFC chip of a smartphone
  • Bank Account verification: Applicants log into the online banking of or perform a transaction from/to an existing German bank account in their name
  • PostIdent: Applicants let their document be checked at a participating post office in person
  • Branch verification: Applicants visit a branch of the bank to let their document be checked in person

An account that can be opened “without Anmeldung” is not necessarily available worldwide. You may still need to genuinely reside at an address in a supported country, and the bank may request proof of that address later. Eligibility can also depend on whether the provider’s verification service supports your nationality and identity document.

A SCHUFA (German credit) history is usually not required for a basic checking account without credit facilities. However, banks in Germany check for negative SCHUFA entries by default so that they may deny access in case of, e.g., missed loan payments. Banks generally only perform a real creditworthiness assessment (meaning positive credit history) when you apply for an overdraft or another credit product, and the SCHUFA score may form part of that assessment.

For newcomers, it is therefore important to distinguish between:

  • no Anmeldung (registered residence in Germany) required;
  • no proof of address (e.g., registration certificate “Meldebescheinigung”, electricity bills) required;
  • available to residents outside Germany.
  • no credit history in Germany (SCHUFA) required 
  • no credit check (SCHUFA) performed

These are five different conditions and should not be treated as interchangeable.

4.3 Cards, Cash Withdrawals, and Foreign-Currency Fees

The cards included with a free account can make a major difference to its total cost. A Visa or Mastercard debit card is not the same as a credit card, even if it looks similar.

With a debit card, transactions are normally charged directly to your current account. A genuine credit card or charge card provides a separate credit limit or collects transactions before charging them later.

You should check whether the account includes:

  • a virtual debit card;
  • a physical Visa or Mastercard debit card;
  • a German girocard;
  • a genuine credit card;
  • an additional card for a partner or joint account holder.

The girocard remains an important payment method in Germany and is still the country’s most widely used debit-card system. International Visa and Mastercard debit cards are accepted increasingly widely, but a girocard can still be useful at smaller shops, medical practices, public offices, or other businesses that do not accept every international card.

Also compare the different types of cash and foreign-currency fees separately:

  • cash withdrawals in euros;
  • cash withdrawals outside the eurozone;
  • card payments in a foreign currency;
  • fees charged by the bank;
  • additional fees charged by the ATM operator;
  • cash deposits at branches, ATMs, or participating retailers.

Free card payments abroad do not automatically include free cash withdrawals abroad. A provider may charge no foreign-currency fee for purchases but still charge a percentage or fixed fee when you withdraw cash.

Similarly, “free cash withdrawals” may be limited by the number of withdrawals, a minimum withdrawal amount, a monthly allowance, or a particular ATM network. Independent ATM operators may also charge their own fee even when your bank does not. BaFin’s account comparison therefore lists card payments, domestic withdrawals, foreign withdrawals, and operator charges as separate cost categories.

4.4 German IBAN, Girocard, and Deposit Protection

A German bank account number (IBAN) begins with “DE”. It is convenient for receiving a German salary, paying rent, setting up direct debits, and dealing with local companies or authorities.

However, an account from another EU country can also be used for euro transfers and SEPA direct debits. A company or organization that accepts domestic SEPA payments generally cannot reject an account simply because its IBAN comes from another EU member state. This practice is known as IBAN discrimination.

In practice, a German IBAN may still make everyday administration easier. It can reduce questions from employers, landlords, service providers, or government offices that are unfamiliar with foreign IBANs. You should therefore check whether the provider gives German residents a German IBAN or an IBAN from another European country.

You should also verify who legally holds your money. The brand shown in an app may not always be the licensed bank that operates the account. Some providers use their own banking licence, while others work with a partner bank.

For accounts held with an EU bank, statutory deposit-guarantee schemes generally protect eligible deposits up to €100,000 per customer and institution. Some banks also participate in an additional voluntary protection scheme, but they are not required to do so.

Before depositing a large balance, check:

  • the full legal name of the bank;
  • the country in which it is licensed;
  • which deposit-guarantee scheme applies;
  • whether the €100,000 limit is shared with other accounts at the same institution;
  • whether the provider is a bank, payment institution, or electronic-money institution.

Do not assume that every app offering euro account details provides the same services or protection as a traditional current account. The relevant information should be stated in the provider’s legal documents and deposit-protection information sheet.

Quick Checklist Before Applying
  • Is the €0 monthly fee unconditional?
  • What incoming payment is required?
  • Do you need an Anmeldung or German address?
  • Is your passport or identity document supported?
  • Are the app and customer support available in English?
  • Is a physical card included?
  • Do you need a girocard or genuine credit card?
  • How many cash withdrawals are free?
  • Are foreign-currency payments and withdrawals charged differently?
  • Will you receive a German IBAN?
  • Which bank and deposit-protection scheme hold your money?

How to Open a Bank Account in Germany?

Most German current accounts can be opened online, although some traditional banks also allow applications at a branch. The exact requirements depend on the provider, your country of residence, nationality, and the type of account you choose.

Before applying, check that you meet the bank’s eligibility requirements and understand the conditions for keeping the account free.

5.1 Documents You May Need

Banks do not all request the same documents. Depending on your situation, you may need:

  • a valid passport or national identity card;
  • a residential address in Germany or another supported country;
  • an Anmeldung or German registration certificate, where required;
  • a residence permit or visa, depending on your nationality;
  • a German tax identification number;
  • proof of university enrollment or vocational training where relevant.

Not every identity document is supported by every bank or verification provider. Check the provider’s accepted-document list before starting the application.

New residents normally receive their German tax identification number automatically after registering their address. Most banks allow you to provide it after opening the account.

5.2 The Account-Opening Process

  1. Check eligibility and account fees.
    Confirm the residence, age, identification, and monthly incoming-payment requirements. Also check whether the physical card, girocard, and cash withdrawals are included.
  2. Complete the application.
    Enter your personal details, residential address, tax residence, employment or student status, and contact information. Make sure the information matches your official documents.
  3. Verify your identity.
    Depending on the bank, identification may be completed by video call, electronic ID, an automated app process, at a post office through PostIdent, or in a branch.
  4. Receive your account details and cards.
    After approval, the bank normally provides your IBAN and online-banking access. Virtual cards may be available immediately, while physical cards and PIN letters are usually sent separately by post.

Approval is not guaranteed. A bank may request additional documents or reject an application based on its residence, identification, compliance, or creditworthiness requirements.

For a more detailed explanation of Anmeldung, tax IDs, identification methods, and account-opening requirements, read our step-by-step guide to opening a bank account in Germany.

Frequently Asked Questions

About the Author

Christian is a founding member of and writer at Settle in Germany. He strives to empower expats - whether fleeing war or seeking their next career step - to make their own smart and confident decisions.His guides deliver reliable and objective information about banking and connectivity in Germany. Christian brings in his profound financial and business knowledge from his studies in International Management and a successful long-year track record within international corporations. Having grown up here and lived in six countries across three continents, Christian knows the ins and outs of German particularities and understands what it means to adjust to a new environment. He is deeply immersed in Berlin's expat community, working as a personal coach to support internationals shaping a new life in Germany.

Disclaimer: This blog and providing support are our passion and hobby. However, we do not intend to provide financial advice. All investments involve risks of loss. This post is non-binding, for informational purposes only, and does not represent a complete market overview. We do not take responsibility for the accuracy and up-to-dateness of the data (§18 ZKG).

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