Bank Account

   

Banks (and branches) vary in the documentation they require for opening a bank account. Minimum documents that you will need are an ID card or passport and the registration certificate (“Meldebescheinigung”) from the local registration office (“Bürgeramt”). Some banks also require a proof of income; therefore it could be useful to take with you your employment contract stating your income. Some banks even require a rental contract to prove your address, however, this is rare.

If you would like to have an overdraft and credit cards you have to prove a credit history in Germany. As a new arrival, this may not be possible for the first 6 months. It is probably a good idea to keep your account and credit cards in your home country at least for the first 6 months.