ExpatNav

Bank Account (Girokonto)

N26 Review (2026)

Best for: Tech-savvy expats who want full English mobile banking with no monthly fees

Visit N26

Setup fee

0.00

Monthly fee

Free

Setup time

Open account in 8 minutes via app with video verification

Languages

EN, DE, FR, ES, IT

Mobile app

Yes (4.6/5)

Key Features

  • 100% mobile banking — no branch visits ever
  • Free Standard account with Mastercard debit
  • Open account in 8 minutes with just your passport
  • Full English interface and customer support
  • 3-5 free ATM withdrawals/month (Standard)
  • Real-time push notifications for every transaction
  • Spaces (sub-accounts) for budgeting
  • No SCHUFA required for Basiskonto

Limitations

  • No branches — everything is app-based
  • Cash deposits only via CASH26 partner stores (limited, €1.50 fee)
  • International transfers via Wise integration (extra fees)
  • Chat-only support — no phone support on free tier
  • Some landlords prefer traditional German banks for Mietkaution

Pricing Plans

Recommended

N26 Standard

Free

  • €0/month — completely free
  • Mastercard debit card
  • 3 free ATM withdrawals/month in EUR zone
  • Apple/Google Pay
  • Spaces sub-accounts (2 free)

N26 Smart

4.90/month

58.80/year

  • Everything in Standard
  • 5 free ATM withdrawals/month
  • 10 Spaces sub-accounts
  • Round-up savings rules
  • Priority phone support

N26 You

9.90/month

118.80/year

  • Everything in Smart
  • Unlimited free ATM worldwide
  • Travel insurance included
  • 0% foreign exchange fee
  • Exclusive card colors

Eligibility

Who can use N26?

RequirementStatusNotes
nationality: non euAcceptedOpen to all nationalities with valid ID/passport
nationality: eu citizenAcceptedEU citizens accepted
visa type: student visaAccepted
visa type: language course visaAccepted
visa type: job seeker visaAccepted
language: no german requiredAcceptedFull English interface
credit check: schufa not requiredAcceptedBasiskonto available without SCHUFA

About N26

N26 is Europe's leading mobile bank, built for the smartphone generation. Fully English banking experience, no branch visits needed, and account opening from your phone in minutes. The go-to choice for expats and internationals in Germany.

Founded: 2013HQ: Berlin, GermanySupport: chat, email

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