Insurances, City Registration, Bank Account

Welcome Centre for International Scholars

1) City Registration

Registration at the Residents' Registration Office

When you move to Cologne you have to get registered with the as a Cologne Citizen at one of the cities´ service centres when having moved into your apartment. When you move to Cologne from a foreign Country you only need to register if you are staying longer than three months. At the Residents' Registration Office you will receive a "Meldebescheinigung". This is a paper confirming that you have registered. You will need this offical proof of registration if you wish to /apply for a residence permit (if your visa does not cover your entire stay e.g.) or open a bank account. Once you have registered you will also be receiving a tax ID (Steuer ID) via postal mail.

For more details on the registration process, please follow the instructions provided in this information document:

Information on accommodation in Cologne

2) Bank account

In Germany it is common to pay smaller sums in cash. Apart from cash, debit and credit cards are usually accepted. If you are staying in Germany for an extended period, are receiving a regular salary or fellowship and have to pay rent, it is a good idea to open a current account at a bank at the earliest opportunity. You can open a current account at any bank, the nearest ones are located at Zülpicher Straße, Dürener Straße and Luxemburger Straße.

How do I open a bank account?

In order to open a bank account you need:

your passport or identity card
residence permit from the "Ausländeramt" (Immigration Office)
confirmation from the "Einwohnermeldeamt" (Residents’ Registration Office)

You will be issued with a debit card called a “EuroCheque-Karte” (EC card) for your current account which will allow you to draw cash from a cashpoint (ATM). This service is free if you use cashpoints belonging to your own bank but incurs charges if the cashpoints are maintained by other banks.

Transferring money abroad can be expensive. You should enquire about the conditions at your own bank at home in advance and possibly choose a bank in Germany that cooperates with your bank at home.
Source: EURAXESS