Step-by-Step Guide:
Opening Your Business Account
Complete English instructions to open your Commerzbank KlassikGeschäftskonto in about 15 minutes
Go directly to account opening →Complete Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these 6 steps to open your Commerzbank business account online. The application takes about 10-15 minutes, and your account is typically ready within 1-2 business days.
Prepare Your Documents
Prepare Your Documents
Gather all required documents before starting the application. Freelancers (Freiberufler) need: valid passport or EU/EEA ID card, German registration certificate (Anmeldung), and your tax identification number (Steueridentifikationsnummer). Sole proprietors also need their trade registration (Gewerbeanmeldung). Non-EU citizens should have their residence permit ready.
Tip: Your Steueridentifikationsnummer is the 11-digit number you received by mail after your Anmeldung. It is different from your Steuernummer (tax number). If you have not received it yet, contact your local Finanzamt.
Start the Online Application
Start the Online Application
Go to the Commerzbank business account page and click "Geschäftskonto eröffnen." Select your business type (Freiberufler or Einzelunternehmer) and enter your personal details: full name, date of birth, nationality, German address, email, and phone number. You will also enter your business activity description and tax ID.
Tip: The application form is in German. Take your time and use our guide to understand each field. Your address must exactly match your Anmeldung registration.
Choose Your Account Model
Choose Your Account Model
Select from three account tiers: KlassikGeschäftskonto (€15.90/month, 6 months free — best for most freelancers), PremiumGeschäftskonto (€8.90/month for 2 years, then €34.90 — for growing businesses), or PremiumGeschäftskonto Plus (€54.90/month — for high transaction volumes). All models include the €100 online bonus.
Tip: Start with the KlassikGeschäftskonto if you are unsure. The 6 months free period gives you time to evaluate your transaction volume, and you can upgrade later if needed.
Verify Your Identity
Verify Your Identity
Choose from three verification methods: Video-Ident (fastest — 5-10 minutes via the IDENT app, available daily 7:00-22:00), PostIdent (visit any Deutsche Post office with your passport and the PostIdent coupon), or visit a Commerzbank branch in person. You will need your passport or EU/EEA ID and the Ident-ID from your confirmation email.
Tip: Video-Ident is the fastest option and works well for expats. Make sure you have good lighting, a stable internet connection, and your physical passport (not a copy). The agent may ask you to tilt the document to verify security features.
Receive Your Girocard & PIN
Receive Your Girocard & PIN
After successful identity verification, Commerzbank processes your application. Your Business Girocard PIN arrives by mail first (usually within 2-3 business days), followed by the physical Business Girocard in a separate letter (approximately 4-7 business days). Keep the PIN secure until your card arrives.
Tip: Your IBAN is typically available by email within 1-2 business days after verification. You can already share this IBAN with clients and set up invoicing while waiting for the physical card.
Set Up the Corporate Banking App
Set Up the Corporate Banking App
Download the Commerzbank Corporate Banking app (iOS or Android). Log in with your participant number and PIN from the welcome letter. Activate photoTAN for secure transaction authorization. Explore the dashboard to view balances, make transfers, and manage your business account on the go.
Tip: Activate photoTAN within 3 hours of receiving your activation details. If you miss this window, you will receive an activation letter by post instead, which delays the process. Also consider connecting your accounting software (Lexoffice, SevDesk, etc.) via HBCI/FinTS right away.
Open Your Business Account Now
Follow these 6 steps to open your Commerzbank business account online. Have your passport, Anmeldung, and tax ID ready before you start.
Open Your Business Account Now →Helpful Tips for Expat Freelancers
Before You Start
Have all documents ready (passport, Anmeldung, Steueridentifikationsnummer, Gewerbeanmeldung if applicable). Choose a quiet time for the Video-Ident call. Set aside 15-20 minutes for the full application. Make sure your German address is current and matches your Anmeldung.
Separating Business and Personal Finances
Even though it is not legally required for freelancers in Germany, opening a dedicated business account is highly recommended. It simplifies your tax return (Steuererklärung), makes VAT reporting easier, and gives you a professional appearance when invoicing clients. Your Steuerberater will thank you.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not confuse Steueridentifikationsnummer (11 digits, permanent) with Steuernummer (format varies, assigned by Finanzamt). Make sure your name matches your passport exactly — including middle names. Activate photoTAN within 3 hours. If the Video-Ident fails, try again or use PostIdent as a backup.