How To Open A Bank Account In Germany Without Anmeldung
Germany is known for being fussy when it comes to paper works and official documents. While it sounds difficult to open a bank account in German without home registration or what we call the ”Anmeldung”but it is very possible.
But here’s the top question – so how can you open a bank account in Germany without Anmeldung?
I know you don’t have the patience to read the whole article so let’s not beat around the bush this time.
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Here are my tips for opening a bank account without Anmeldung:
- Use your friend’s address: Some banks like N26 and Revolut will allow you to use a temporary address (a friend’s address or hotel) where you will receive your bank card. Do not just approach or message a complete stranger online for your safety.
- Provide an alternative document: Some banks may accept proof of residence from your home country or another EU state.
- Choose EU-wide accounts: Expats and foreigners frequently use Wise and Revolut and these two rarely require German registration.
Why would somebody open a bank account in Germany without registration?
There are factors why someone would opt for something that can be done immediately. Someone might be new in the city and he needs a bank account or card immediately to organize financial matters.
In paying your rent in Germany, you also need a valid bank account. While it is possible to pay rent in cash, it is not recommended by most landlords for security.
Some don’t have yet a permanent address where they are registered and are still staying at their friends’ while looking for an apartment.
So options like N26 and Revolut are one of the best for foreigners in Germany and they can even open bank account online. And I’ll tell you how.
Open bank account in Germany online
N26
N26 is a multinational German fintech that is based in Berlin. It is also the first 100% mobile bank and is one of the best German banks for expats and foreigners without home registration.
So, now you’re thinking of opening an N26 account? Awesome choice — it’s one of the easiest and most modern banks out there. Here are the ways on how to get started, step-by-step (don’t worry, it’s super chill and all done online):
1. First things first — check if you’re eligible
You gotta be 18 or older, live in one of the countries where N26 operates (like most of Europe), and have a valid ID like resident permit. Nothing too crazy.
2. Grab the N26 app
Head to the App Store or Google Play and download the N26 app. That’s where everything begins.
3. Sign yourself up
Open the app, tap through the setup, and pop in your basic details. Takes just a couple minutes.
4. Quick ID check
They’ll ask you to snap a selfie and upload a photo of your ID — all done right in the app. It’s kinda cool how fast it works.
5. Boom — you’re in!
Once they’ve confirmed your ID, your account is ready to roll. You can start using it right away, no need to wait for snail mail.
Heads up:
If you’re a non-EU citizen living in Germany, they might ask for your biometric residence permit. Just something to keep in mind.
Resident Permit vs. Anmeldung – what’s the deal?
Alright, so:
Anmeldung = basically your official address registration. It’s how you tell the German gov, “Hey, I live here now.” You need it for stuff like opening a bank account on Sparkasse, Deutsche Bank and etc, getting internet, or signing up for health insurance.
Resident Permit = your legal permission to live in Germany, especially if you’re not from the EU. It’s tied to things like your visa (study, work, freelance, etc.) and proves you’re allowed to stay for more than just a quick trip.
So yeah — Anmeldung says where you live. Resident permit says you’re allowed to live there. Both are super important!
What is the minimum deposit for N26?
N26 doesn’t require a minimum deposit when you open an account and you can start using the account once you already signed up.
But like any other banks, the company should thrive financially and they have to pay their staff and other things so it can’t be 0 cost forever.
Here’s the breakdown of costs of having a N26 account:
✅ N26 Standard Account (Free Plan)
- Monthly Fee: €0 – no maintenance fees.
- Minimum Deposit: None required.
- Card Payments: Free worldwide.
- ATM Withdrawals (Eurozone): 2 free per month; additional withdrawals cost €2 each.
- ATM Withdrawals (Non-Eurozone): 1.7% fee per withdrawal.
- Physical Card Delivery: €10 one-time fee; virtual card is free.
- CASH26 Deposits: 1.5% fee per deposit.
CASH26 is a feature from N26 that lets you deposit and withdraw cash at participating retail stores (like supermarkets and drugstores), instead of needing a traditional bank branch or ATM.
Here’s how it works:
- Open your N26 app and tap on “Cash”.
- Choose whether you want to deposit or withdraw cash.
- Enter the amount and the app gives you a barcode.
- Head to one of the partner stores (like REWE, Penny, dm, Rossmann, etc.).
- Show the barcode at the cashier, they scan it, and boom — either hand you cash (for withdrawals) or take your money (for deposits).
A few things to know:
- Deposit minimum: €50
- Deposit max: €999 per transaction (subject to monthly limits)
- Withdrawals: Free and quick, usually with a €50 daily minimum
- Availability: Mostly in Germany and Austria (not available in every country)
✅ Premium Plans (Optional Upgrades)
If you’re looking for more features, N26 offers premium plans:
- N26 Smart: €4.90/month – includes up to 5 free ATM withdrawals in the Eurozone.
- N26 You: €9.90/month – includes up to 5 free ATM withdrawals in the Eurozone and unlimited free withdrawals abroad.
- N26 Metal: €16.90/month – includes up to 8 free ATM withdrawals in the Eurozone and unlimited free withdrawals abroad.
Each premium plan comes with additional benefits like travel insurance and dedicated customer support.
Okay, aside from N26, you can also open a bank account in Germany without the stress of Anmeldung with Revolut.
What is Revolut?
Think of Revolut as your all-in-one money app. — it’s totally digital, super fast, and way more flexible.
So what does it actually do?
- Mobile Bank Account – You can send, spend, and manage your money straight from your phone.
- Multi-currency – Hold and exchange 25+ currencies with great exchange rates (hello, travelers ✈️).
- Virtual & Physical Cards – Pay online, in-store, or even create disposable cards for extra security.
- Instant Transfers – Send money to friends in seconds (yes, even internationally!).
- Budgeting Tools – Set spending limits, track your habits, and save automatically into “Vaults.”
- Investments – Buy crypto, stocks, and commodities right in the app (if that’s your thing).
- Subscription Control – See what you’re paying for monthly and cancel with a tap.
Plans for Every Vibe
- Standard (Free) – Great for everyday use, with most features included.
- Plus, Premium, Metal – Add perks like travel insurance, airport lounges, cashback, and fancy metal cards.
Who is it for?
- People who travel or work internationally
- Freelancers & digital nomads
- Anyone sick of traditional banking fees
- Folks who like managing money from their phone (with ✨style✨)
How to Open a Revolut Account (a.k.a. the easiest banking you’ll ever do)
Alright, if you’re tired of old-school banking or just want something snappy and modern to manage your money, Revolut is a solid pick. I opened mine in like 10 minutes, no lie. Here’s how you can too — step-by-step, in plain English:
Step 1: Download the app
First things first — head to the App Store or Google Play and grab the Revolut app. This is where everything happens. No paperwork, no awkward branch visits. It’s 2025, people.
Step 2: Sign up
Once the app is on your phone, open it up and tap “Sign up.” You’ll punch in your phone number, get a code via SMS, and boom — you’re in.
Step 3: Add your details
Now you’ll fill in a few basics like your:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Home address
Nothing crazy — takes like 2 minutes tops.
Step 4: Verify your identity
Next up: ID time. You’ll snap a quick pic of your passport, ID card, or driver’s license, and maybe a selfie (don’t worry, it’s just to make sure you’re you — not for Instagram 😄).
Step 5: Add a payment method
You’ll need to add a card or bank account to top up your Revolut wallet — even just a small amount like €10 works to get started. This also helps activate your account.
Step 6: You’re good to go!
That’s it! You’ve officially joined the Revolut fam. You can:
- Spend globally with great exchange rates
- Create savings “Vaults”
- Track your spending
- Even invest in stocks or crypto if that’s your jam
Oh — and if you want a physical card, you can order one in the app. They’ve got different types, from basic to metal, depending on your vibe and budget.
Bonus: Plans
Revolut has a free plan (which is already loaded with features), or you can level up with premium options for extras like travel insurance, cashback, or lounge access.
I have my Revolut for almost 2 years already if I’m not mistaken. When I started they didn’t have German IBAN until last year.
For those who wanted to sign up and open an account on Revolut you will get a German IBAN already.
So that’s it! Have fun in signing up in those accounts.
