This article is outdated.
Kontoeröffnung is the act of opening a bank account.
If you are from a country outside the Eurozone, transaction fees are likely to be charged whenever cash is withdrawed or any tranfer is conducted. For paying your rent, for salary, and for everyday use, you might consider opening a German account.
In Aachen, there are several institutions where you can open a bank account, among other:
- Sparkasse Aachen
- Deutsche Bank
- Commerzbank
- Aachener Bank
- Postbank
Sparkasse and Deutsche Bank probably have the most ATMs available around town. Whenever you withdraw money from a ATM which belongs to a bank other than your own bank or its partners, you'll be charged a fee of up to 5€.
Ask for a "Studentenkonto" and explain, where you are from. The service should know, for which accounts you are eligible. This is important because Studentenkonten usually are free.
Documents
For opening your account you will need the following documents:
- Passport
- Meldebescheinigung (go to Einwohnermeldeamt)
- Immatrikulationsbescheinigung, which can be printed in Campus Office
In Sparkasse you can open an account without Meldebescheinigung. (see http://www.av.rwth-aachen.de/index.php/en/beratung/72-stadt-aachen/86-aufenthaltserlaubnis-visa-)
Cards
- EC: Electronic Cash, a debit card; won't allow you to take any loans
- credit cards (Visa, Master): might be difficult to get, if you have no income
Tips
- consider taking a friend of your buddy when you're opening your account, it will probably help!
