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Starting business in Germany
Germany, officially known as the Federal Republic of Germany, is a leading country in Central Europe with a rich history, dynamic culture, and a strong global economic presence. As the largest economy in Europe and the third-largest exporter and importer worldwide, Germany is renowned for its innovation, advanced manufacturing, and robust infrastructure. The country boasts a highly skilled workforce, a transparent legal system, and a stable political environment. Major cities such as Berlin (the capital), Frankfurt, Munich, and Hamburg are not only cultural hubs but also key centers for business and finance. Germany’s central location in Europe provides strategic access to both EU and global markets, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and investors.
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How to open a bank account for business in Germany?
For businesses looking to establish or expand their presence in Europe, opening a business bank account in Germany offers a multitude of strategic advantages:
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Efficient Financial Management: A dedicated business account streamlines accounting, tax reporting, and financial audits. It allows for clear tracking of income and expenses, simplifies tax returns, and ensures compliance with German tax regulations. This is particularly beneficial during audits, as business transactions are easily separated from private ones.
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Building Credibility and Trust: Having a local bank account enhances your business's credibility with German partners, customers, and authorities. It demonstrates a commitment to the German market and fosters trust.
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Skilled Workforce: Germany possesses a highly educated and skilled workforce, known for its precision, reliability, and strong work ethic. This provides businesses with access to top talent across various industries.
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Access to the SEPA Network: With a German business account, companies can make and receive payments across all EU member states at local transaction costs, thanks to the SEPA (Single Euro Payments Area) network. This reduces international transfer fees and facilitates smooth cross-border business within Europe.
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Access to the Eurozone: A German bank account provides seamless access to the Eurozone's financial system, simplifying transactions with other member countries and reducing currency exchange costs.
Whether you are a start-up, freelancer, or an international company, having a German business bank account is a valuable asset for success in Europe.
Major Commercial & Investment Banks in Germany
1. Deutsche Bank
Website:
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Dedicated relationship managers
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International banking network
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Comprehensive business accounts
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Free cash withdrawals in 60+ countries
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Debit/credit cards
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Trade & forex services
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Personal assistance in branches.
2. Commerzbank
Website: https://www.commerzbank.de
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Fully digital business credit card management
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Issue/restrict cards for employees
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Seamless integration with billing
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Strong in foreign trade finance
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Comprehensive financial services for SMEs and corporates
3. HypoVereinsbank (HVB)
Website: https://www.hypovereinsbank.de
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Real-time access to business data
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Integrated with SAP ERP
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High scalability for business growth
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Enhanced security
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Focus on customer satisfaction and tailored solutions
4. DZ Bank Group
Website: https://www.dzbank.com
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Central institution for 900+ cooperative banks
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Liquidity balancing & refinancing
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Corporate finance & investment banking
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Comprehensive online banking
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Support for SMEs, startups, and international clients
Development & State Banks in Germany
1. Sparkasse
Website: https://www.sparkasse.de
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Individual billing (pay only for used services)
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Advanced online banking (George platform)
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ProSaldo.net for invoicing/accounting
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Debit & credit cards
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Personal advisor support
2. Norddeutsche Landesbank (Nord/LB)
Website: https://www.nordlb.com
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Wide range of financial services for SMEs and corporates
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Focus on North Germany
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Special finance and real estate expertise
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Services for public sector and savings banks
3. NRW.Bank
Website: https://www.nrwbank.de
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Promotional loans with rates up to 2% below market
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Redemption discounts up to 20% for SMEs
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Focus on innovation, digitalization, and sustainability
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Equity financing and advisory for startups and SMEs
4. Bayerische Landesbank (BayernLB)
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Regional support for Bavarian businesses
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Corporate finance, real estate, and project funding
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Strong in public sector banking
Website: https://www.bayernlb.de
5. Volksbanken und Raiffeisenbanken
Website: https://www.volksbank.de
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Cooperative banking network
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Local expertise for SMEs
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Personal advisory services
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Wide branch network
Digital & FinTech Banks in Germany
1. FINOM
Website: https://www.finom.com
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All-in-one platform: banking, invoicing, expense categorization
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Up to 3% cashback
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Fast online setup
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Accountant access
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Digital wallets
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Payment reminders & aggregation
2. Satchel
Website: https://www.satchel.eu
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Fully online account opening
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SWIFT & SEPA in 38 currencies
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Physical/virtual cards
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Advanced security (3D Secure, 2FA)
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Accounting integration
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Payroll support
3. Qonto
Website: https://www.qonto.com
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Fast online account opening
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Local IBAN
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Invoicing, expense management, and bookkeeping tools
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Multi-user access with roles
4. Revolut Business
Website: https://www.revolut.com/business
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Multi-currency accounts (25+ currencies)
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Fee-free incoming transfers in major currencies
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Customizable spend controls
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Bulk payments and expense management
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Physical/virtual cards
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24/7 support

Requirements to open a business bank account in Germany
To open a business bank account in Germany, you must provide a comprehensive set of documents to satisfy legal, regulatory, and bank-specific requirements. Here are the main documents and information typically required, based on the latest guidance from Germany banks and digital providers:
Document Type
Company registration
Constituent documents
Identification/personal documents
Business information
Ownership/structure
Tax/regulatory details
Bank forms/declarations
Proof of capital/source of funds
Supporting documents (if requested)
Description/Examples
Certificate of incorporation, HRB extract
Articles & memorandum of association
Passports/IDs, proof of address for directors/owners
Business plan, activity description, projected turnover
List of directors/shareholders, HRB extract
TIN, VAT, CCSS number, licenses
Application forms, KYC/AML, letter of motivation
Bank statements, contracts, investment agreements
Major contracts, client/supplier info, organization chart
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO INCORPORATE A BUSINESS? DO I NEED A GERMAN PASSPORT? AND ADDRESS?
The average time to complete the incorporation process and start your own business in Germany is 4 days. Yan Incorporation accepts both EU and non-EU entrepreneurs. A German passport is not needed but accepted as a document.
If you want to start a business, yes a physical/virtual adress is needed. You can contact us to find a suitable location.
IF I AM NOT IN GERMANY/EU COUNTRY, WHICH DOCUMENT DO I NEED?
Valid certified copy of your passport displaying the page(s) that show your name, photograph, signature, date of birth and passport expiry date. In addition, an acceptable proof of address is required.
HOW WILL YOU CARRY THE IDENTIFICATION PROCESS? IS THE PRICE INCLUDING ALL COSTS?
Our team will receive the documents and then check if the information are legit. Furthermore, certain documents will be screened and where necessary double-checked to ensure they are dated within 4 months. The Full pricing option includes the deed of Incorporation, the company registration and remote services. Premium services are available.
HOW CAN I REGISTER A BRAND OR TRADEMARK?
WHAT ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT LEGAL ASPECTS OF STARTING A COMPANY IN GERMANY?
We have an in-house specialist who can advise you and guide you through the procedure of registering an EU Trademark. Click here
The Article of Association and the license registration depending on the business you operate.
WHAT IS THE AMOUNT OF TAX BURDEN OF GERMAN COMPANIES?
Corporation tax is charged at 15% and then a solidarity surcharge is applied at 5.5%
Download our guide or contact us for more info
WHICH CITY IS THE BEST LOCATION FOR BUSINESSES? IT? RETAIL?
In general, Berlin, Munich and Hamburg are cities you should prioritize when deciding where to start your business. For IT, the first 2 cities have a developed ecosystem while Hamburg is host to big names in the tech industry. For retail, Cologne, Frankfurt, Dusseldorf and Berlin are the best picks.
DO I NEED AN AUDITOR TO AUDIT MY ANNUAL REPORT?
Medium and large-sized companies have statutory audit obligations. Auditing companies or certified public accountants must be selected.
DO I NEED A LOCAL ACCOUNTANT?
We highly advise local accountants since Germany may have additional accounting requirements based on the location.
WHAT TYPE OF COMPANY SHOULD I CHOOSE?
We have more information about types of Dutch companies at this page. If you need specific advice, don't hesitate to contact us.