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Bank appointment prep
German phrases for opening a bank account
A practical sheet for your first Banktermin: opening the conversation, handing over documents, and understanding monthly fees before you agree.
Content verified June 2026
Interactive practice
Rehearse this conversation with choices, feedback, and grammar notes — not just the phrase sheet.
Bring
- Ausweis or passport
- Meldebestätigung or Meldebescheinigung
- Proof of address if your branch asks for it
Expect
- Möchten Sie ein Girokonto eröffnen?
- Haben Sie Ihre Unterlagen dabei?
- Welche Karte möchten Sie?
- Möchten Sie Online-Banking nutzen?
- Haben Sie Fragen zu den monatlichen Gebühren?
Useful phrases
Keep the appointment formal and clear
Banks expect polite Sie language, named documents, and direct questions about costs before you sign.
Ich möchte ein Girokonto eröffnen.
I would like to open a checking account.
Welche monatlichen Gebühren fallen an?
What monthly fees apply?
Hier sind mein Ausweis und die Meldebestätigung.
Here are my ID and registration confirmation.
Könnten Sie mir die Kosten noch einmal zusammenfassen?
Could you summarize the costs once more?
Rescue phrases
- Könnten Sie die monatlichen Gebühren noch einmal erklären?
- Können Sie das bitte wiederholen?
- Was bedeutet dieses Wort?
Common questions
FAQ
Short answers for the questions people ask before this appointment.
What documents do I need to open a bank account in Germany?+
Most branches ask for your Ausweis or passport and a Meldebestätigung. Some also request proof of address.
What German phrase should I use to open a bank account?+
Start with Ich möchte ein Girokonto eröffnen.
How do I ask about bank fees in German?+
Use Welche monatlichen Gebühren fallen an? or Könnten Sie die monatlichen Gebühren noch einmal erklären?
What if I need the advisor to repeat something?+
Say Können Sie das bitte wiederholen? or Was bedeutet dieses Wort? before agreeing to the account.
Take it with you
Print or save the offline pocket card with the key lines for appointment day.
Open pocket cardKeep preparing
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