Comparison
We compared the top digital banks available to expats in Germany. Here's which one to pick based on your needs and German level.
By Mahiuddin Al Kamal · 6 options
Choosing a bank as a new expat in Germany used to mean visiting a Sparkasse branch with a translator. Not anymore. Several excellent digital banks now let you open an account in minutes, often before you even have your Anmeldung sorted.
We've tested all three of these banks with real accounts. Each has a clear sweet spot: N26 for speed and English support, DKB for long-term banking with free worldwide ATM access, and C24 for the best interest rates on your everyday balance. All three are free.
We evaluated each bank on five criteria that matter most to expats: ease of sign-up (can you open it without an Anmeldung?), English support, fee structure, ATM access, and long-term value. Our pick goes to N26 because most expats need a working bank account on day one, and N26 delivers that faster than any alternative.
Pro Tip: You don't have to pick just one. Many expats use N26 as their first account, then add DKB or C24 later for specific advantages. German banks don't charge for having multiple accounts.
01 / At a glance
Pick an option name to jump to its full write-up below.
| Option | Rating | Best for | Monthly fee | English app | German IBAN | Branches | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top pick N26 | 4.5 | English-first digital bank | Free | Full | Yes | No | Visit N26 website, opens in a new tab |
| DKB | 4.4 | Free worldwide withdrawals | Free | Partial | Yes | No | Visit DKB website, opens in a new tab |
| C24 Bank | 4.3 | Interest on balance | Free | No | Yes | No | Visit C24 Bank website, opens in a new tab |
| ING Direct banks | 4.2 | Reliable free direct bank | Free | Partial | Yes | No | Visit ING website, opens in a new tab |
| Vivid Money Digital banks | 4.1 | Cashback + investing | Free tier | Full | Yes | No | Visit Vivid Money website, opens in a new tab |
| Commerzbank Traditional banks | 3.8 | Branch access | Free w/ conditions | Partial | Yes | Yes | Visit Commerzbank website, opens in a new tab |
Scroll the table sideways to see every spec.
02 / In detail
Free mobile bank account with a German IBAN. Fully digital, English-friendly app.
Pros
Cons
Germany's largest direct bank. Free Visa debit card, great for international travel.
Pros
Cons
Free smart banking with up to 2.5% interest on your balance. German-only app.
Pros
Cons
Direct banks
Germany's largest direct bank. Free current account, solid app, free ATM withdrawals from €50.
Pros
Cons
Digital banks
Mobile bank with cashback, sub-accounts, and investing built in. English app, German IBAN.
Pros
Cons
Traditional banks
Major traditional bank with physical branches and a welcome bonus. Good if you want in-person service.
Pros
Cons
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