Bank account assistance in Germany

A German GmbH needs a business bank account early: at registration, at least half of the minimum capital, EUR 12,500, must be contributed on a bank account in a way that can be verified. For founders abroad, opening that account is often the slowest part of the process. Banks in Germany, like banks across the EU, must identify every person who controls the company, and they ask for passports, the articles of association, a description of the business and an explanation of where the money comes from. Some insist on meeting the managing director in person; others identify customers by video call.

Firms offering bank account assistance in Germany

bdp

Accounting firm · Medium-sized firm

Berlin

  • Company formation
  • Accounting and bookkeeping
  • Tax compliance
  • +6 more

Languages: German · Chinese · English

View profile of bdp

Greenfields

Corporate services provider · Boutique firm

Frankfurt

  • Company formation
  • Accounting and bookkeeping
  • Tax compliance
  • +4 more

Languages: English · German

View profile of Greenfields

What to ask a firm about the bank account

Ask which kinds of banks the firm has worked with for clients in your position, and whether it prepares the account application or only introduces you. Ask which documents must be translated or certified, and whether an apostille is needed for papers issued in your home country. Find out how the firm handles the order of steps, since the account, the capital payment and the registration depend on each other. No firm can promise that a bank will accept a client, so treat any guarantee with caution.

Firms on Accountanty

Accountanty lists ten firms that help with bank accounts in Germany: six accounting firms, two law firms and two corporate service providers. Seven are small, two medium-sized and one belongs to a large network. All ten also handle company formation in Germany, and German and English are each offered by nine. Berlin has four of them, Frankfurt three, Munich two and Hamburg one.

Frequently asked questions

Can I open a German business bank account without visiting Germany?

Some banks identify customers by video call, while others ask the managing director to come in person. A firm that has opened accounts for clients abroad can tell you which approach to expect and plan the trip if one is needed.

Why does the bank account matter for a new GmbH?

The share capital is normally paid into the company's account before registration, so the account is part of the formation itself. Ask your formation firm to plan the bank step alongside the notary appointment.

Other services in Germany

Accountants by city in Germany

Setting up a company in Germany: the guide and every firm

General information, not legal or tax advice. Rules, rates and fees change: check them with the official sources linked on this page or with a qualified adviser before you act.