Why a Girokonto matters
A current account is central to receiving salary, paying rent, setting up direct debits and managing daily spending. Card payments are common, but cash still matters in some smaller businesses.
What documents may be requested?
Official guidance says banks commonly request a valid passport, residence permit, registration certificate and, depending on the account, proof of salary. Individual bank onboarding rules differ.
Online bank or branch bank?
Digital banks may offer fast onboarding and lower fees. Branch banks can be useful for cash deposits, in-person support and local service. Compare monthly fees, ATM access, card type and international-transfer costs.
Girocard, debit and credit card
For everyday spending, a debit card or Girocard is often enough. A true credit card may still be useful for deposits such as hotels or rental cars.
Share banking details safely
An IBAN is routinely used for salary and payments, but login credentials, TAN codes and PINs should never be shared.
Selection rule: choose based on fees, support, cash/ATM access and your actual habits—not brand popularity alone.
Where do you actually stand?
Answer a few questions to see which residence route fits your profile — or talk it through with a consultant.
