Best banking apps for expats in Germany 2025 — compare N26, Revolut, Wise, DKB, bunq for German IBANs, low-fee transfers & international-friendly accounts

 Introduction: Why Expats in Germany Need the Right Banking App

Moving to Germany can be exciting — new culture, new opportunities, and, unfortunately for many, new bureaucracy. One of the first things every expat needs is a bank account. Without it, you can’t receive your salary, pay rent, or even sign up for certain services.

But here’s the twist: Traditional banks in Germany can be slow, require in-person appointments, and may ask for proof of residence before you even settle in. That’s where modern banking apps come in — they offer quick setup, English-language support, and low fees for international transactions.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best banking apps for expats in Germany in 2025 — covering everything from German IBAN requirements to fees, pros & cons, and which apps fit different lifestyles.

Whether you’re a student, remote worker, freelancer, or professional, this post will help you find the perfect banking solution.

Banking Basics in Germany: What Expats Should Know

Before choosing a banking app, it’s important to understand a few key terms and processes in the German banking system:

1. IBAN & SEPA Transfers

• IBAN (International Bank Account Number): Every German bank account comes with one, starting with “DE.”
  
  
• SEPA Transfers: Standardized euro transfers across Europe, usually free within the EU.
  
  

2. PostIdent & VideoIdent

• PostIdent: Verification process at a Deutsche Post branch.
  
  
• VideoIdent: Online video verification, common for digital banks.
  
  

3. Schufa Credit Score

• Germany’s credit history system. Opening certain accounts or getting credit cards may require a Schufa check.
  
  

4. Fees to Watch Out For

• Monthly account maintenance fees
  
  
• ATM withdrawal charges
  
  
• Foreign currency conversion fees
  
  

(For a deeper dive into avoiding financial mistakes abroad, see our earlier guide: Financial Planning Tips for African Expats Living in Germany)

Top 7 Banking Apps for Expats in Germany (2025)

We tested, compared, and reviewed the most popular banking apps for expats. Here’s the breakdown:

1. N26 – The Digital Pioneer

Why Expats Love It:

• Quick sign-up with VideoIdent
  
  
• German IBAN for salary & rent payments
  
  
• No hidden fees for euro payments
  
  

Key Features:

• Free basic account & paid premium tiers
  
  
• Google Pay & Apple Pay
  
  
• Budgeting tools built into the app
  
  

Best For: Students and remote workers needing a fast setup.

Drawbacks: Limited cash deposit options.

     N26 Official Website 

1. 2. Revolut – The Global Traveller’s Choice

Why Expats Love It:

• Supports 30+ currencies
  
  
• Great exchange rates
  
  
• Virtual cards for online security
  
  

Key Features:

• IBAN (non-German, Lithuanian by default)
  
  
• Stock & crypto trading features
  
  
• Instant money transfers between Revolut users
  
  

Best For: Frequent travelers and freelancers paid in multiple currencies.

Drawbacks: German landlords may require a DE IBAN, which Revolut doesn’t provide by default.

3. Wise – Transparent International Transfers

Wise (TransferWise) Official Site

Why Expats Love It:

• Market-leading currency exchange rates
  
  
• Multiple currency accounts
  
  
• Low-cost transfers to 80+ countries
  
  

Key Features:

• Wise debit card for global spending
  
  
• Clear fee breakdown before you send money
  
  
• Real-time transfer tracking
  
  

Best For: Expats sending money home regularly.

Drawbacks: No traditional savings or credit products.

4. DKB – Reliable German Bank with App Support

Why Expats Love It:

• Fully German bank with DE IBAN
  
  
• Fee-free worldwide payments with Visa card
  
  
• Excellent for long-term residents
  
  

Key Features:

• Free account if you have monthly income deposits
  
  
• Interest-bearing accounts & loans
  
  
• Multilingual online banking
  
  

Best For: Professionals & families planning to stay long-term.

Drawbacks: Application process can take longer than neo-banks.

5. bunq – Eco-Friendly Banking for Expats

Why Expats Love It:

• Focus on sustainability (trees planted per transaction)
  
  
• Multiple IBANs from different countries
  
  
• Instant payment notifications
  
  

Key Features:

• Joint accounts
  
  
• Budgeting and sub-accounts
  
  
• Supports 30+ currencies
  
  

Best For: Socially conscious expats and couples.

Drawbacks: Monthly fees for most useful features.

6. Sparkasse – Traditional Meets Digital

Why Expats Love It:

• Germany’s most widely available bank
  
  
• Physical branches everywhere
  
  
• Works well for official transactions
  
  

Key Features:

• German IBAN
  
  
• Local customer service
  
  
• Supports cash deposits easily
  
  

Best For: Expats who prefer in-person service and reliability.

Drawbacks: App is less modern compared to digital-only banks.

7. Commerzbank – Full-Service Banking

Why Expats Love It:

• Free account with regular deposits
  
  
• Comprehensive range of services
  
  
• English-language customer support
  
  

Key Features:

• Loans, savings, investments
  
  
• DE IBAN for salary & rent
  
  
• Apple Pay & Google Pay
  
  

Best For: Expats wanting a one-stop financial solution.

Drawbacks: More paperwork compared to digital banks.

Comparison Table: Best Banking Apps for Expats in Germany (2025)

Bank/App	DE IBAN	Monthly Fee	Foreign Currency Fees	Best For
N26	✅ Yes	€0–€16.90	Low	Students, Remote Workers
Revolut	❌ No	€0–€13.99	Excellent rates	Travelers, Freelancers
Wise	❌ No	Pay-per-use	Lowest in market	Money Transfers
DKB	✅ Yes	Free*	Low	Long-term residents
bunq	✅ Yes	€2.99–€17.99	Low	Eco-conscious users
Sparkasse	✅ Yes	€4–€7	Standard	Traditional banking
Commerzbank	✅ Yes	Free*	Standard

*Conditions apply for free accounts.

Which Banking App Should You Choose?

• Students → N26 for fast setup + no monthly fees
  
  
• Remote Workers → Revolut for multi-currency income
  
  
• Freelancers → Wise for low-cost international invoices
  
  
• Long-term Residents → DKB for stability + DE IBAN
  
  
• Eco-conscious → bunq for sustainability features
  
  
• Paperwork-heavy needs → Sparkasse or Commerzbank
  
  

See also our earlier post: Ireland Side Hustles – 5 Legal Ways to Earn Online in 2025 for expats    looking to boost income while in Germany.)

How to Open a Bank Account in Germany as an Expat

1. Choose your bank/app
   
   
2. Prepare documents: Passport, proof of address, sometimes proof of income
   
   
3. Verification: PostIdent or VideoIdent
   
   
4. Activate your account: Download the app, receive your card
   
   
5. Register with your employer or landlord
   
   

“Step-by-Step Guide for Expats to Open a Business Bank Account in Germany”

Tips for Managing Your Money in Germany as an Expat

• Avoid using your foreign debit card for everyday purchases — fees can add up.
  
  
• Use budgeting features in N26 or bunq to track expenses.
  
  
• If you send money home often, compare rates between Wise and Revolut before each transfer.
  
  

FAQs – Best Banking Apps for Expats in Germany (2025)

1. Do I need a German IBAN to rent an apartment?
   
    Usually yes, especially with traditional landlords.
   
   
2. Can I open an account before arriving in Germany?
   
    Some neo-banks like N26 allow this if you have a European address.
   
   
3. Which app is best for English speakers?
   
    N26, Revolut, and Wise all have full English support.
   
   
4. Is Wise a bank in Germany?
   
    No, but it provides account details for Germany and other countries.
   
   
5. Can I use Revolut for my salary in Germany?
   
    Yes, but some employers prefer a DE IBAN.
   
   
6. Which bank is best for low fees?
   
    Wise for transfers, N26 for everyday euro payments.
   
   
7. Do I need Schufa to open a bank account?
   
    Not always — N26, Wise, and Revolut often don’t require it.
   
   
8. Can I deposit cash into digital banks?
   
    N26 allows this via partner stores, DKB via ATMs.
   
   
9. What’s the fastest bank to open in Germany?
   
    N26 — you can be set up in under 10 minutes with VideoIdent.
   
   
10. Can I open multiple accounts in Germany?
    
     Yes, many expats keep one for local use and one for international transfers.
    
    
11. Which bank is best for freelancers?
    
     Wise for invoices, Revolut for currency flexibility.
    
    
12. Are there tax implications for multiple accounts?
    
     Yes, all income must be declared in your German tax return.
    
    

💡 Ready to Open Your German Bank Account?

Choosing the right banking app can save you money, time, and stress as an expat. Whether you’re a student, freelancer, or professional, there’s a perfect fit for your needs in this list.

✅ Compare the options, pick your favorite, and start your journey to smarter banking today!

Photo Credit: Ai generated picture with Civic vibe NG prompt