Opening a bank account
If you are staying in Germany for a longer period of time and you are receiving a regular salary or scholarship and have to pay rent, it is a good idea to open a current account with a bank or savings bank ("Sparkasse") at the earliest opportunity. To do this, you will need to present your passport or identity card and confirmation from the Resident Registration Office (“Einwohnermeldeamt”) that you are registered. Some banks will also ask you to present your residence permit from the Foreign Nationals Registration Office (“Ausländeramt”).
Banks and Savings Banks / "Sparkassen"
There are hardly any differences between the banks with regards to the services they offer, but they differ in the charges you have to pay, so it is advisable to check in advance. You will be given a debit card called a Eurocheque (EC) card (“Euro Cheque-Karte” in German) for your current account, enabling you to withdraw money from a cash point (ATM). This service is free if you use cash points belonging to your own bank but incurs charges if they are from others. Most banks are open Monday to Friday between 8:30am and 4:00pm.
Transferring money
Transferring money abroad can be expensive. You should enquire about the conditions in advance at your own bank at home and possibly choose a bank in Germany that cooperates with yours.
Translation: Dr. Lynda Lich-Knight, ResearchComm Ltd.
Tutor Service
Every Tuesday, 8:00am (meeting point by arrangement).
If you need assistance when dealing with the formalities or would like someone to accompany you to the various authorities, you can call on our team of student tutors who will be pleased to help you. The tutor service includes:
- assistance in dealing with the officials at the Foreign Nationals Registration Office
- assistance in opening a German bank account
- assistance in taking out a health insurance policy
For appointments, please contact Ms. Alexandra Redel, counsellor for guest researchers (phone: +49 (0)234 / 32-25408). Please contact us at least 3 days in advance.
