To open a bank account

in Germany, you need the following:

• your passport
• your certificate of residency
• a pay statement from your employer (depending on the account type)

With these documents you can apply for a current account and an EC card with the bank of your choice. Current accounts with some banks do not allow overdrafts; in other words, they do not permit you to borrow money through your account. Some banks also require that a minimum amount be deposited each month. Make sure to clarify both of these questions before opening an account.