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Explaining bAV: How to Boost Your Retirement Savings

Have you heard about the Betriebliche Altersvorsorge (bAV)? It’s a fancy term for company pension schemes in Germany, and they can really boost your retirement savings. But before you dive in, let’s take a closer look at what the bAV is all about, its perks, and the things you need to consider. Trust us, it’s worth understanding whether the bAV is the right choice for you.

Eligibility and Types of Employees

First things first, who can get in on the bAV action? Well, the good news is that all types of employees are eligible! Whether you’re a salaried employee, a trainee, a wage earner, a non-controlling share holder-manager of a GmBH, a member of a corporation’s board of directors, or an external person working exclusively for one company, the bAV is open to you. It’s not mandatory, but many folks choose it because of the awesome tax breaks and government subsidies it offers.

Employer at work office desk
tax benefits woman on couch calculations

Contribution Options and Tax Benefits

Okay, let’s talk money. With the bAV, you can ask your employer to convert a part of your salary into the pension scheme. This is called “deferred compensation.” Up to 8% of your gross salary (with a maximum annual limit of €7,008) can be directly contributed to your bAV. And guess what? The best part is that before taxes and social security contributions, 4% of your gross salary is automatically deducted. You can even choose to have an additional 4% deducted, which lowers your taxable income. That means more money in your pocket!

Retirement Benefit Options

When it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor, you’ve got choices. You can go for a full lump-sum payout, where you receive your entire saved retirement capital at once. Or, you can opt for a partial lump-sum payout, where you get a chunk (usually around 30%) upfront and the rest as a lifelong pension. Lastly, there’s the lifelong pension option. Depending on how much you’ve saved, you’ll receive a fixed monthly amount until the end of your days. Pretty neat, huh?

Older Man Retirement Savings bAV

Portability and Investment Management

Now, here’s some good news for job hoppers. If you switch jobs, you can take your bAV savings with you. That means you don’t have to start from scratch when you join a new company. Your savings will keep growing, just like you! The bAV works similarly to private pension insurances, and your employer can choose an insurance provider to handle the investment side of things. They’ll make sure your money is in good hands and growing steadily.

Legislation and Employer Contributions

Since your employer saves on your social security contributions, they are required to transfer those savings over to you by contributing them to your bAV. So, you’re not alone in building your retirement fund — your employer’s got your back!

Age of Eligibility and State Pension Implications

Now, let’s talk about when you can start reaping the benefits. If you signed up for the bAV after 2012, the earliest age you can claim the benefits is 62. But don’t worry, you don’t have to rush. Most folks choose to claim their bAV benefits when they become eligible for the full German state pension. Just remember that when you lower your social security contributions through the bAV, your contribution to the mandatory state pension is also reduced. It means your government-run pension might be a bit lower, but hey, it’s a trade-off for the extra savings you’ve accumulated!

married couple playing video games

Conclusion

Phew! That was a lot to take in, but we hope you now have a clearer picture of the Betriebliche Altersvorsorge (bAV) and how it can help you boost your retirement savings. It’s all about understanding the eligibility criteria, contribution options, investment management, and the impact on your state pension. So, take your time, weigh the advantages and disadvantages, and decide if the bAV is the right choice for securing your financial future. Your retirement self will thank you later!

How Social Security Has Evolved in Germany

Social security stands as a fundamental pillar in contemporary societies, providing a safety net for citizens in times of need. In Germany, this concept has a rich history that has evolved significantly over the years. From its origins in the late 19th century to the robust system in place today, Germany’s social security system has seen remarkable transformations.

In this article, we’ll take a journey through time to explore how social security in Germany has evolved.

Historical Background

Germany’s social security journey can be traced back to the late 19th century when Chancellor Otto von Bismarck introduced a pioneering social legislation package.

The German Chancellor was driven to implement social insurance in Germany with two main objectives: first, to enhance the welfare of workers, ensuring the optimal performance of the German economy, and second, to mitigate demands for more radical socialist alternatives.

In 1889, he established the world’s first old-age social insurance system, with a primary focus on pension benefits for industrial workers.

The German system included obligatory retirement and disability benefits, with contributions taken from employees, employers, and the government. This, combined with the workers’ compensation initiative introduced in 1884 and the “sickness” insurance program implemented the previous year, established a thorough income security system in Germany rooted in the principles of social insurance.

Library History Research

World War I

After World War I, there was swift progress in the expansion of social insurance programs across various regions. The concept of social protection found its place on the agendas of newly established international bodies, such as the ILO and the International Conference of National Unions of Mutual Benefit Societies and Sickness Insurance Funds, which originated in Brussels in October 1927 and eventually evolved into the International Social Security Association (ISSA).”

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Weimar Republic and World War II

The Weimar Republic faced economic and political instability during the early 20th century, which had an impact on social security programs.

However, World War II brought about significant changes as the nation rebuilt itself after the devastation. The aftermath of the war saw the consolidation and expansion of social security initiatives to address the needs of a recovering population.

In 1944, the ILO’s historic Declaration of Philadelphia called for the expansion of social security measures. It also advocated for the international or regional promotion of systematic and direct cooperation among social security institutions, the regular exchange of information, and the examination of shared challenges concerning the administration of social security.

Just a year later, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which, in Article 22, acknowledged that “Everyone, as a member of society, has the right to social security”.

Weimar Republic and World War II

The Weimar Republic faced economic and political instability during the early 20th century, which had an impact on social security programs.

However, World War II brought about significant changes as the nation rebuilt itself after the devastation. The aftermath of the war saw the consolidation and expansion of social security initiatives to address the needs of a recovering population.

In 1944, the ILO’s historic Declaration of Philadelphia called for the expansion of social security measures. It also advocated for the international or regional promotion of systematic and direct cooperation among social security institutions, the regular exchange of information, and the examination of shared challenges concerning the administration of social security.

Just a year later, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which, in Article 22, acknowledged that “Everyone, as a member of society, has the right to social security”.

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Post-World War II Reforms

The post-war era witnessed extensive reforms in Germany’s social security system. Comprehensive social insurance systems, including health, pension, and unemployment insurance, were established to ensure the well-being of citizens. This period also saw the emergence of the social market economy, which played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s social security policies.

These reforms were not only designed to provide financial protection but also aimed to foster social cohesion and economic stability.

One remarkable reform during this period was the introduction of the “Sozialer Ausgleich” or “social compensation” policy. This initiative, implemented in the 1950s, aimed to balance income disparities by redistributing wealth through progressive taxation and social benefits. It was a key component of the broader effort to create a fair and just society in post-war Germany.

These post-World War II reforms laid the foundation for the robust social security system that exists in Germany today.

Law Scales Government Regulation

German Reunification and Social Security

The reunification of East and West Germany in 1990 posed unique challenges for social security. Integrating the social security systems of the two regions required careful planning and coordination. East Germany had its own distinct social security framework, developed during the years of the German Democratic Republic (GDR), which differed significantly from that of West Germany.

One of the most significant challenges was the merging of pension systems. East Germany’s pension system was based on a “pay-as-you-go” model, where current workers’ contributions funded the pensions of retirees. In contrast, West Germany had a more advanced and financially robust pension system.

Another area of focus during reunification was healthcare. East and West Germany had different healthcare systems with varying levels of coverage and infrastructure. The goal was to create a unified healthcare system that ensured equal access to medical services for all citizens.

Despite the complexities, the reunification of Germany’s social security systems symbolized the country’s commitment to ensuring that all citizens had access to the same level of social protection.

German Reunification and Social Security

The reunification of East and West Germany in 1990 posed unique challenges for social security. Integrating the social security systems of the two regions required careful planning and coordination. East Germany had its own distinct social security framework, developed during the years of the German Democratic Republic (GDR), which differed significantly from that of West Germany.

One of the most significant challenges was the merging of pension systems. East Germany’s pension system was based on a “pay-as-you-go” model, where current workers’ contributions funded the pensions of retirees. In contrast, West Germany had a more advanced and financially robust pension system.

Another area of focus during reunification was healthcare. East and West Germany had different healthcare systems with varying levels of coverage and infrastructure. The goal was to create a unified healthcare system that ensured equal access to medical services for all citizens.

Despite the complexities, the reunification of Germany’s social security systems symbolized the country’s commitment to ensuring that all citizens had access to the same level of social protection.

Contemporary Social Security in Germany

Today, Germany boasts a comprehensive social security system that encompasses various components, including healthcare, pensions, unemployment benefits, and family support. This system is built on the principles of solidarity and sustainability, ensuring that resources are fairly distributed and that future generations can benefit from the system.

Reforms and Challenges

In recent years, Germany has faced the challenge of an aging population, leading to discussions about the sustainability of its social security system. Policymakers are continually evaluating and reforming various aspects of social security to adapt to changing demographics and economic realities.

  • Pension Reforms. One of the primary areas of reform has been the pension system. As the population ages and the ratio of retirees to active workers increases, there is growing concern about the financial sustainability of the “pay-as-you-go” pension model. To address this, Germany has implemented reforms to gradually increase the retirement age, encouraging individuals to work longer before claiming their pensions. Additionally, adjustments to pension calculations have been made to align benefits more closely with lifetime earnings.
  • Long-Term Care Insurance. With an aging population, the demand for long-term care services has surged. To meet this challenge, Germany has introduced reforms to expand and enhance long-term care insurance. These reforms aim to provide better coverage and support for those in need of care while relieving some of the financial burden on families.
  • Labor Market Integration. Encouraging labor force participation, especially among older individuals and women, has been a focus of recent reforms. Politicians have introduced measures to promote flexible work arrangements, lifelong learning, and retraining to ensure that people can remain economically active for longer periods
  • Healthcare Sustainability. Healthcare costs have been on the rise due to advances in medical technology and the aging population. Reforms have aimed at improving the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of healthcare delivery while maintaining high-quality care. Initiatives such as cost containment measures and the promotion of preventive healthcare have been implemented.

In conclusion, the evolution of social security in Germany reflects the nation’s commitment to the well-being of its citizens. From its inception in the late 19th century to the present day, Germany’s social security system has grown and adapted to meet the needs of its people. As the country faces new challenges and opportunities, it remains dedicated to providing a strong safety system for all its citizens, ensuring that social security continues to play a vital role in its society.

Mandatory and Recommended Vaccinations in Germany

Vaccinations in Germany

Vaccines are some of the most effective preventive measures to protect against infectious diseases. Although they are not compulsory in Germany (with one exception that you will find later in this article), all health authorities strongly recommend it.

The Standing Commission on Vaccination (STIKO) at the state-run Robert Koch Institute decides which vaccinations are recommended in Germany. The Federal Ministry of Health (Bundesministerium für Gesundheit) appoints the members of STIKO, who are primarily doctors from university hospitals. The current and up-to-date recommendations on vaccinations are always available on the website of the Robert Koch Institute, which is also available in English. 

getting vaccinated Vaccination

Is it compulsory to be vaccinated in Germany?

If you recently moved to Germany and are planning to start a family in the country, you should be informed about the vaccines that you and your children may need.

As we mentioned before, unlike other European countries, there is no compulsory vaccination in Germany. However, there is one exception to the rule: the measles vaccination. The Measles Protection Act, which came into force on March 1, 2020, is intended to provide school and kindergarten children with effective protection against measles. However, regardless of this, it is important to educate people about the importance of vaccination and to make vaccination easily accessible to all citizens.

Having said this, the Federal Ministry of Health and the Robert Koch Institute recommend the following vaccinations for all citizens living in the country:

Vaccine recommendations for children and adolescents in Germany

  • Diphtheria
  • Tetanus
  • Poliomyelitis (polio)
  • Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib)
  • Pertussis (whooping cough)
  • Hepatitis B
  • Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR)
  • Chickenpox
  • Rotavirus, pneumococcal infection
  • Meningococcal C infection
  • HPV (human papillomavirus)

Booster vaccinations for adults in Germany

Booster against diphtheria and tetanus (recommended every ten years)

Booster against measles (people over the age of 18 who were born after 1970 and are unsure of their vaccination status, have not been vaccinated, or have received only one vaccine as a child).

Vaccine recommendations in Germany for people over the age of 60

  • Influenza
  • Pneumococcal infection
  • Herpes zoster (shingles)
  • Further vaccinations for unvaccinated adults after consultation with a doctor
Senior Citizen getting vaccinated
Vaccine Covid 19

The COVID-19 vaccine

The introduction of a mandatory vaccination program for the entire population in Germany was heavily debated, but it was unsuccessful in the German parliament’s Bundestag. When it comes to making COVID-19 vaccinations a requirement, Germans place a high value on self-determination and freedom of choice. According to a survey that was carried out, 63 % of Germans agree that vaccinations are a matter of personal autonomy that the state cannot interfere with, even during a pandemic. However, the majority of the German population is vaccinated against COVID-19: 78 % of people have received at least 1 dose and 76.4 % of Germans are fully vaccinated.

The vaccination record or Impfpass

The vaccination record, also known as the Impfpass, is a yellow booklet that is given to you after you are vaccinated for the first time in Germany. This booklet contains a record of all your vaccinations, making it easier for you to keep track of all your vaccines.

In addition to the vaccination record, you can get a second record book for your children (also known as a Kinder-Untersuchungsheft) for pediatric medical examinations. All of your child’s medical check-ups and assessments will be recorded in this booklet up until the age of six. You receive this booklet shortly after delivery.

Vaccination Card Impfpass Record
Medical Bill Health Insurance

Who covers the cost of vaccines?

The statutory health insurance funds in Germany (GKV) spend about 1.4 billion euros annually on vaccinations (as of 2017, according to the Federal Ministry of Health). Therefore, people who have statutory health insurance are entitled to the vaccinations that are recommended in Germany at no additional cost.

If you’d like to find out more about your health insurance coverage and how you might be able to optimize it, our team of experts will be happy to advise you. Contact us here!

Vaccines are extremely efficient not only because they provide individual protection, but also because they lead to herd immunity, protecting a large part of the population against diseases.

We hope that you found this article useful and it helped you learn more about vaccination in Germany. We must never forget that countless deaths are prevented worldwide thanks to vaccines, so we should stay protected!

The German Pension System: The Ultimate Guideline

As an expat coming to Germany, we understand that the German pension system can be hard to understand. If you come to work in the country and are employed, you will contribute to the pension system, just like every other citizen. Does this sound too confusing? Read this article to better understand how the pension system works in Germany for expats!

What is the German pension age?

The German pension system is experiencing some major changes in terms of retirement age. Nowadays, the official retirement age for women is 65 years and 67 years for men. Over a transition period from 2012 to 2029, this will gradually climb up to official retirement age. In addition, an early retirement is possible in Germany if you have worked for at least 35 years. However, for every year that you retire earlier than planned, 3.6% of your pension will be deducted. At the moment, 4 employees finance 1 retiree in Germany.

First step: taxation

First of all, you should be aware that all pensions are taxable in Germany. What does this mean? This means that you must declare all pension payments you get to the tax office, whether it is in Germany or in a foreign country. These payments may include a state pension, occupational pension scheme, Riester pension or private pension insurance.

In some cases, your pension could be subject to double taxation, which occurs when both Germany and your place of residency tax your pension income. As a result, you must determine whether the two nations have a double tax agreement in place.

In addition, as soon as you’ve paid into your pension for more than five years, you will receive an annual pension information letter with your pension balance and further information.

What is a mandatory state pension?

In Germany, the mandatory state pension (statutory pension) is known as the Gesetzliche Rentenversicherung (GRV). Employees contribute to the German state pension through payments to the German social security, where a proportion of the wage is paid. Instead of being saved or invested, these compulsory contributions are reallocated to pay for existing pensioners. The system is subsidized through the German state.

For expats who decide to leave Germany, two scenarios may occur. On the one hand, it might be possible to get a return on your half of the pension contributions to the state. If you have paid into the German pension scheme for less than five years, you can get half of your saved retirement back (only half of it, since 50% is paid by the employee and 50% by the employer; you can only get the amount paid by the employee back). You can receive this right away, but you have to submit a request for it.

On the other hand, if you have contributed to the German pension system for more than five years, you have to wait until you reach retirement age before you receive your German pension abroad. In this case, you will get the full retirement amount you saved for the time that you were contributing into the system.

However, the statutory pension insurance is not enough and it is usually advised to supplement it with a private pension fund. Contact us for a free consultation today to find out more information about this.

What is a Riester pension?

The Riester pension is one of the most complex parts of the German pension system. The Riester pension is a state-subsidised private pension plan. This is how it works: as an individual, you contribute to a private pension contract, bank savings plan or fund during your active working life. This way, you get state allowances, tax advantages and a monthly pension for the rest of your life.

What happens if you are still contributing with your Riester pension and you decide to leave Germany? Since these financial benefits are directly linked to your residency in the country, you are no longer eligible for additional subsidies and allowances from the German government. If you move to another EU country, you will not be required to repay anything and will be able to claim the benefits of the plan when you retire.

However, for non-EU citizens, the German government would expect you to repay any state contributions made to your Riester account by the time you retire. Taking this into account, the Riester pension system is only convenient for people who plan to stay in Europe for their whole lives.

What is a basis pension (Rürup) and BAV?

The basis pension, sometimes known as the Rürup pension, is named after its “creator”, Prof. Rürup. The Rürup pension was established to allow self-employed people and freelancers to save for retirement in the same way that employees do.

Moreover, a company pension scheme (bAV = betriebliche Altersvorsorge in German) is the creation of a supplementary pension through the employer from contributions of the employer, the employee, or both combined.

For expats who leave Germany, we have good news: both pensions can be transferred abroad.

What is a private pension insurance?

The private pension insurance (Private Rentenversicherung) is made up of individual pension investment plans set up by banks and insurance companies to raise your overall German pension entitlement when you reach the retirement age. There are good news for expats who leave the country: you can get your private pension in every foreign country around the world without any complications or deductions.

 

We hope that this article helped you better understand the way the German pension system functions and how you can take advantage of it as an expat. If you wish to learn more information concerning your personal options, contact us here!

Expat Life in Germany 2022: New Changes That You Should Be Aware of Now

Expat life in Germany can be especially daunting. Every year, new and updated policies come into effect that expats need to be aware of, often feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of changes. While it may seem tough to keep up to date with all these alterations, the best way to make your life as an expat in Germany successful and fulfilling is by proactively preparing early for the inevitable policy shifts. With a little extra effort in understanding and learning the rules of the game around you, it’s possible to enjoy a journey filled with joyous cultural experiences.

Expats in Germany face significant issues, such as a language barrier and the difficulty involved in learning German, finding work, figuring out where to live, understanding the red-tape maze and bureaucracy, dealing with the culture shock, and more. While it can be challenging to navigate these hurdles, having a keen understanding of policy changes affecting expats will surely make things easier for you. 

So, without ado, let’s explore the changing laws, rules, and regulations that are bound to affect you in 2022:

Social Security Changes

Here are the changes that will affect social security in Germany in 2022:

New Social Security Contribution Threshold

Each year, the federal government alters the social security contribution assessment ceiling. However, due to negative wage development in 2021, most thresholds will remain the same, and some will reduce. The income threshold for statutory health insurance and long-term care insurance contributions will remain the same this year.

Meanwhile, the threshold for pension insurance will vary across different federal states as the government tries to reduce the difference between pensions in western and eastern Germany. You should contact your expat insurance company to determine what these changes mean for your insurance.  

Compulsory Insurance Limit Will Remain Unchanged

The compulsory insurance limit will remain at 64,350 euros each year. If you earn more than that, you can take our private health insurance in the country. It will allow you to discuss personal accident insurance and other medical insurance varieties with your provider.

Childless Individuals Will Pay Higher Long-Term Contributions

Germany will increase the contribution rates for long-term care insurance for childless individuals in 2022. They will justify this increment by stating that it will cost the state more to take care of them in their old age without children to take care of them. So, childless individuals aged 23 or more will see a 0.1% to 3.4% rise in their contributions. 

Healthcare Changes

Germany’s healthcare is facing the following changes:

Digital Sick Notes 

People working in Germany have had to send digital copies of their doctor’s certificates to their employer to avail sick leave for some time now. But from July 1, 2022, the doctor will send copies to the resident or expat international insurance company and your employer directly.  

The Use of E-Prescriptions 

The government wants to replace the pink prescription forms doctors use for prescribing medicine in January 2022, but the changeover to e-prescription hasn’t taken place yet. However, the Federal Health Ministry insists that the change, allowing your GP to send an e-prescription to the pharmacy directly, will occur this year.

EU Digital Certificate’s Limited Validity

The European Commission decreed in December 2021 that starting from February 1, digital COVID certificates will remain valid for nine months without a booster vaccine. 

Online Organ-Donation Information

From March 2022, GPs will need to give you more detailed information about your organ donation options. A new online portal will enable you to register for organ donation or withdraw your prior consent. 

Work-Related Changes

Here are the changes you should be mindful of when working in Germany:

Increment in Tax-Free Allowance

The country will increase the rudimentary tax-free allowance for adults by 204 euros. It means that single individuals will not have to pay taxes on the first 9,984 euros of their salary. For couples in a registered marriage, the amount is double.

Moreover, the taxable component of pensions will be 82% in 2022, and only new pensioners will be affected by this 1% increment. If you are facing trouble with your taxes, it’s best to reach out to financial services in Germany to make sense of them.

Minimum Wage Will Increase

Germany’s minimum wage will increase this year to 982 euros each hour. It will see a hike again in July and reach 1,045 euros per hour.

Unemployment Benefits

If you lose a job in the country, you can register online with the Employment Agency to receive unemployment benefits. All you will need is a valid electronic proof of identity. 

Compulsory COVID Vaccines in the Healthcare Industry

In 2022, healthcare workers will need to present proof of vaccine to work in German hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare institutes. 

Benefit & Allowance Changes

Here are the changes in allowances and benefits:

Increase in Hartz IV 

Individuals receiving unemployment benefit II (Hartz IV) will receive more money this year. Single individuals will receive a three euro increase, which will take their benefit up to 449 euros per month. The standard rate for young people and children will also increase.

More Care Relief

Germany will offer further relief to caregiver relatives, care staff, and people in need of care. Individuals who receive care in their homes will receive a supplement from their long-term care insurance to ensure they can manage the rising costs. 

Increment in Child allowance & Maintenance Advance

The Kinderzuschlag or supplementary child allowance that low-income families receive along with their regular child benefit will increase this year to a maximum of 209 euros each month. Meanwhile, the maintenance advance given to single parents who receive no or irregular maintenance payments from the other parent will increase per the rising minimum maintenance amount.

The Bottom Line

With each passing year, Germany introduces more new laws and policies that affect its residents and expats. These were merely some of the significant policies that would affect anyone living in Germany. I hope they help you navigate the new rules seamlessly.

Procedure to Open a Bank Account for Expats in Germany

The procedure to open a bank account for expats in Germany might seem challenging considering the language barrier and the mounds of paperwork. This helpful guide gives you all of the information on opening a bank account in Germany and makes the process easier.

Opening a German bank account is one of the first things expats should do when they arrive in the country. It can help them buy international expat insurance, an apartment, find a job, get various services, and so much more. Needless to say, a German bank account is indeed a necessity for anyone starting their life in the country.

The German Banking System

The German banking system comprises three main pillars of banks; private commercial banks, public savings banks, and cooperative banks. Aside from this, there are also several international banks, online banks, and mobile banks in the country. 

If you move to Germany without a bank account, initially, managing finances will not be too difficult. This is because significant companies accept payments from major international debit and credit cards, such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. 

However, if your account is with a bank that does not have a location in Germany, managing finances through it would be pretty tricky.

Types of German Bank Accounts

German banks offer different types of bank accounts to customers. They include the following: 

Current Account

These are the standard and go-to accounts for German residents since they help pay bills and receive salaries. Most German banks offer both current and specialized accounts for expats and residents.

Savings Account

You can open a savings account alongside your current account, and it is designed to help you save and earn interest over time. Such accounts can be either instant access for saving or fixed deposits. The latter can be either instant access that includes higher interest and a minimum deposit or a fixed period that the money has to stay in the account. 

Non-resident Account

Savings and current accounts are typically only available to German residents. Non-residents have specific bank accounts they can open while not having a permanent address. This is an excellent option for expats planning to move from their home country.

Digital and Mobile Accounts

There are several mobile-only bank accounts recently opening up in the country. Moreover, most banks also offer online banking via their banking apps.

Off-shore Accounts 

This is perhaps the best option for expats planning to move to Germany. It is also an excellent option for those who frequently travel from one country to another or have to transfer their funds to different countries. 

German Bank Options to Choose from

Expats can choose from various German bank options depending on their needs and preferences. They include the following:

  • TransferWise
  • Sparkassen and Volksbanken (Savings and Cooperative Banks)
  • Nationwide Banks (Private Banks)
  • Revolut
  • Online and Mobile Banks 

How to Open a German Bank Account?

EU nationals will not have a difficult time opening a German bank account. However, non-EU residents might face some difficulties since they require proof of income and jobs within the country and show their permanent address in Germany. 

Moreover, some banks might be reluctant to open bank accounts for expats since these people don’t have a previous credit history. It can be challenging for expats to get around the banking system and open an account for these reasons.

The best way to open a German bank account is to visit the bank yourself and provide them with all necessary documents. These include the following:

  • Your passport with a valid visa or residence permit
  • Evidence of income and employment
  • Permanent German residence
  • Proof that you are a student if you are opening an account as one
  • SCHUFA credit rating
  • Initial deposit 

When you open a German bank account, you might also be required to prove your identity. This will likely be done with a webcam or email verifying code. 

Moreover, if you plan to open a German bank account abroad, this option might only be limited to EU residents. The process is straightforward as you will simply need to submit your documents and sign them online.

Factors to Consider When Opening a German Bank Account

Before you open a bank account with one of the banks in the country, it is essential that you consider the following factors:

  • Research on all of the banking services they offer
  • If they provide customer support in English
  • If they give you term life insurance
  • What the maintenance and withdrawal fees are
  • If they offer online services
  • How extensive their banking network is 
  • If they help you open international expat insurance

Final Words

This was an all-inclusive, comprehensive guide on opening an account as an expat in Germany. If you find any difficulties with this procedure, you can quickly get in touch with our experts. We can help you with the process and paperwork and provide you with guidance.

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