Easiest Bank in Germany for Non-EU Students to Open an Account (2025 Guide)

Moving to Germany as a non-EU student can be both exciting and overwhelming. Beyond securing admission and applying for a student visa, one of the first financial steps you must take is opening a German bank account. Without it, you cannot pay rent, receive your blocked account funds, or even get your residence permit approved.

But here is the challenge: non-EU students often face stricter requirements compared to EU citizens. Some banks may ask for proof of residence, a tax ID, or even employment contracts that new students simply do not have yet. That is why finding the easiest bank in Germany for non-EU students to open an account is so important.

In this article, you will learn:

• Why non-EU students need a German bank account
• The types of accounts available (blocked, current, savings)
• Eligibility requirements for non-EU students
• The easiest banks to open an account with in 2025
• Step-by-step application and verification process
• Fees, costs, and overdraft options explained
• A comparison table of the top banks
• Common problems and solutions for non-EU applicants
• Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

By the end, you will know exactly which German bank is best for you as a non-EU student and how to get started quickly without stress.

Why Non-EU Students Need a Bank Account in Germany

A bank account in Germany is not optional—it is legally required for most financial transactions. Here is why it matters:

1. Visa & Residence Permit Requirement – Many German embassies require proof of a blocked account before issuing a student visa. Later, the Ausländerbehörde (Foreigners’ Office) will also check this during residence permit application.
2. Receiving Your Funds – As a non-EU student, you must deposit at least €11,208 (2025 figure, subject to updates) into a blocked account to prove financial stability.
3. Daily Expenses – Rent, utilities, and even mobile contracts require a German IBAN.
4. Part-Time Jobs – Employers in Germany only pay salaries into local bank accounts.
5. Tuition Fees (if any) – Many universities with tuition require transfers from German accounts.

Without a bank account, you cannot function as a student in Germany.

Eligibility: Can Non-EU Students Open a Bank Account in Germany?

Yes. Non-EU students can open a bank account in Germany, but they must meet certain requirements.

Basic Eligibility Rules:

• Must have an admission letter from a German university
• Must provide a valid student visa or residence permit (or proof of pending application)
• Must register residence in Germany (Anmeldung) for most traditional banks
• Must deposit the blocked account minimum (€11,208) if required
• Must pass bank verification checks (passport, visa, address)

Tip: Some online banks like N26 or Tomorrow allow non-EU students to register without a German residence registration immediately, making the process easier.

Types of Bank Accounts for Non-EU Students in Germany

Non-EU students should understand the three main types of accounts before choosing a bank:

1. Blocked Account (Sperrkonto)

• Required for visa approval
• Holds at least €11,208 for one year (2025)
• Money is released monthly (~€934 per month)
• Examples: Expatrio, Fintiba, Deutsche Bank

2. Current Account (Girokonto)

• Everyday student account for rent, bills, shopping
• Usually free for students under 27
• Examples: N26, Commerzbank, Deutsche Bank

3. Savings Account (Sparkonto)

• Optional for extra money
• Offers interest (though usually low)
• Not mandatory for visa or residence

The Easiest Banks in Germany for Non-EU Students (2025)

Here are the banks that make account opening simple for non-EU students:

1. N26 (Online Bank)

• 100% online with English support
• No Anmeldung needed at first
• Free student-friendly current account
• Easy video verification for non-EU passports

2. Deutsche Bank (Traditional Bank)

• Offers blocked account + student current account
• Widely accepted for visa purposes
• Strong international reputation
• Requires in-person appointment

3. Commerzbank

• Free student current account
• English online banking available
• Accepts most non-EU passports
• Needs German address registration

4. Fintiba (Partnered Bank)

• Focused on blocked accounts
• Recommended by many embassies
• App-based management in English
• Monthly payout linked to current account

5. Expatrio (Digital Financial Service)

• Combines blocked account + health insurance + student package
• Fast approval for visa purposes
• Great for new arrivals who need everything in one place

Step-by-Step: How to Open a Bank Account as a Non-EU Student

Here is the exact process:

Step 1: Choose Your Bank

Decide if you need only a current account or both blocked + current account.

Step 2: Collect Required Documents

• Passport + Visa/Residence Permit
• Admission Letter (Zulassungsbescheid)
• Proof of Residence (Anmeldung) – not always required
• Tax ID (Steuer-ID) – sometimes requested later

Step 3: Submit Online or In-Person Application

• Online banks (N26, Fintiba) → Fill out form on website/app
• Traditional banks (Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank) → Visit local branch

Step 4: Verification Process

• Video identification (N26, Expatrio)
• In-branch passport check (Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank)

Step 5: Account Approval & IBAN Issued

• IBAN is sent by email or post
• Blocked accounts release money monthly

Step 6: Start Using Your Account

• Link account with health insurance, rent payments, and part-time jobs

Fees and Costs for Non-EU Student Bank Accounts

Summary Comparison Table: Best Banks for Non-EU Students in 2025

FAQs: Easiest Bank in Germany for Non-EU Students

1. Can I open a German bank account without Anmeldung?

Yes, banks like N26 allow this for international students.

2. Which bank is best for a blocked account?

Deutsche Bank, Fintiba, and Expatrio are the most recognized.

3. Do I need a German tax ID as a student?

Not immediately, but you will need it if you start working.

4. Is N26 accepted for visa applications?

No, N26 is a current account, not a blocked account. You still need Fintiba/Expatrio.

5. What is the minimum blocked account deposit for 2025?

€11,208 for one year, released monthly at about €934.

6. Can I use my home country bank account in Germany?

Only for international transfers. For rent and jobs, a German IBAN is mandatory.

7. Do student accounts have overdrafts?

Yes, some banks like N26 and Commerzbank offer student overdraft options.

8. Which is the fastest bank for account opening?

N26 and Fintiba approve accounts within 24–48 hours.

9. Is there an age limit for student accounts?

Yes, most banks offer free student accounts until age 27.

10. Can I switch banks later?

Yes, you can switch at any time, but make sure your visa documents are updated.

Conclusion: The Easiest Bank Choice for Non-EU Students

Opening a bank account in Germany is a critical first step for every non-EU student. While the process may seem complicated, choosing the right bank can make it smooth and stress-free.

• If you want fast, online access, choose N26.
• If you need a blocked account for your visa, go with Fintiba, Expatrio, or Deutsche Bank.
• If you want a free traditional student account, Commerzbank is a strong option.

The easiest solution is often a combination: open a blocked account with Fintiba/Expatrio for your visa, and a current account with N26/Commerzbank for daily spending.

By making the right choice, you will save time, avoid stress, and focus on your studies instead of paperwork.