Your first task in Berlin: Opening a bank account

Last updated: 05.08.2026

You've just arrived in Berlin and want to get started right away. But where do you actually start in this urban jungle? One of the most important things is opening a bank account. You need one to rent a flat or house, to enter into a mobile phone contract, receive a salary, withdraw money or any other banking transaction.

What you need to know at a glance

• A German bank account is essential for everyday life in Berlin, from receiving a salary to paying rent.
• Opening an account with Berliner Sparkasse only takes a few steps and the process can usually be started online.
• You'll need a valid passport or ID and proof of residence to complete your application.

Table of Contents

• Types of bank accounts
• Why should I open an account with the Berliner Sparkasse?
  
• How do I open a bank account in Germany?
• FAQ

Types of bank accounts

In Germany, there are two main types of bank accounts: the Girokonto, used for everyday banking and similar to a current account, and the Sparkonto, designed for saving money.When you open a Girokonto, you usually receive a girocard, Germany's standard debit card. You can use it to withdraw cash from ATMs and pay in most shops and restaurants across the country.
Unlike in some other countries, cheques are rarely used in Germany, so generally, you can’t pay a cheque from a Girokonto. Current account balances also typically earn little or no interest.

Money that is not needed for current transactions can be held in a deposit account or call deposit account. This is often opened in combination with a Girokonto.

Why should I open an account with the Berliner Sparkasse?

The benefits of opening a bank account with Berliner Sparkasse include our award-winning banking app, a wide network of ATMs and English-speaking WhatsApp support.  

The benefits in detail:

• The Sparkasse app was ranked Germany's best banking app in 2026 by Capital Magazine, scoring 92.6 out of 100 in a comparison of more than 30 banking apps by the Institut für Vermögensaufbau (IVA), its fifth win in a row.
• In Berlin, you will find a Berliner Sparkasse ATM on almost every corner. In some shops you can only pay with your girocard or credit card above a certain amount or not at all, so you should always have some cash on you. Across Germany, there are around 20,000 Sparkasse ATMs.
• Berliner Sparkasse is the largest national bank in Berlin and offers a wide range of products and provides helpful information and guidance on banking topics in multiple languages, making it easier for customers to access the support they need.
• You can open and manage your bank account online. Most processes can be handled digitally, from completing transactions to getting an overview of all your accounts including those from other banks and PayPal.
• Berliner Sparkasse is committed to the city and supports numerous social and cultural initiatives throughout Berlin. That’s part of its mission since being founded over 200 years ago in 1818.
• You can get assistance from our LiveChat Linda, where you can choose from a variety of languages. An English-language WhatsApp support service is also available.

How do I open a bank account in Germany?

You can open a bank account in Germany in four easy steps.

Step 1: Choose an account type that best suits your needs

You can open the regular Giro digital account to manage your finances online. If you’re under 25 years old, you can benefit from our special account for young people. 

Step 2: Apply via an online form

Fill out the application form online. Please note that contract documents are in German. If needed, we recommend having a German-speaker at hand to support you.

Step 3: Verify your identity

If you are an EU citizen or citizen of one of these countries, you can use our video verification service. Alternatively, both EU and non-EU citizens can verify their identity at any Berliner Sparkasse branch.

Step 4: Get your documents

After the successful verification you will receive your Sparkasse debit card and log-in details for your online banking.
 

What documents do I need to open a bank account?

To open your bank account, you need documents verifying your identity and your residence status.
Make sure to have the following documents:

• Valid passport or ID card
• German registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung) as proof of residence

Conclusion: Opening a bank account in Germany gives you freedom

If you’re new to Berlin and want to live, work and make financial decisions easily, you should consider opening a German bank account. Having a local bank account often gives you better service and perks in the city. At Berliner Sparkasse, you can benefit from an award-winning online banking app and an extensive network of ATMs throughout the city and the whole country.

FAQ