Everything You Need to Know About Discrimination in Banks, Refusal to Open an Account and How to Turn to BaFin in Germany
Opening a bank account in Germany is an essential step for anyone living in the country – whether for work, study, or receiving benefits. Yet some people, especially those with a migrant background or “different” names/appearances, experience refusal or discriminatory treatment by banks when they apply for a new account.
Refusal to open an account without a clear justification, sometimes based on nationality or ethnic origin
Requesting additional documents that are not required from other customers
Humiliating or disrespectful behaviour during the application process
Imposing harsher conditions or higher fees in a discriminatory way
General Equal Treatment Act (Allgemeines Gleichbehandlungsgesetz – AGG)
The AGG prohibits discrimination in everyday legal transactions, including financial and banking services.
Everyone has the right to equal access to services, regardless of origin, nationality or religion.
Right to a Basic Payment Account (Basiskonto)
Under the Payment Accounts Act (Zahlungskontengesetz – ZKG), any person legally residing in Germany has the right to apply for a basic account (Basiskonto).
This right also covers refugees, asylum seekers and people without a fixed address.
1. Request a written explanation
You are entitled to a formal written statement explaining the reasons for the refusal.
2. Contact the bank
File a complaint with the bank’s customer service or complaints office.
In many cases, the matter can be resolved internally through dialogue.
3. File a complaint with BaFin
What is BaFin?
The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – BaFin) is Germany’s federal regulator for financial markets and financial services providers.
When should you contact BaFin?
If you do not receive a response from the bank
If you consider the bank’s explanation for the refusal to be unconvincing or discriminatory
How do you submit a complaint?
Via the online complaint form on BaFin’s website
Or by post: send a written complaint with all supporting documents (bank letters, copy of the application, ID copies, etc.)
What does BaFin do after receiving the complaint?
BaFin reviews the case and requests a statement from the bank.
If a violation of the law is established, BaFin can oblige the bank to open a basic account or take other supervisory measures.
In cases of systematic violations or discriminatory practices, BaFin may impose regulatory sanctions.
Keep copies of all documents and correspondence (applications, e-mails, letters).
Do not hesitate to seek help from legal advice centres or consumer protection organisations (Verbraucherzentrale).
Remember: You are not alone – the law clearly and explicitly protects you.
Verbraucherzentrale (Consumer Centre): offers advice and support in disputes with banks.
Antidiskriminierungsstelle des Bundes (Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency): supports cases involving clear discrimination.
Fair treatment in banking is a fundamental right, not a privilege. If you encounter discrimination or an unjustified refusal, do not remain silent – request clarification, submit a complaint, and contact BaFin.
Every step you take defends your rights and contributes to a more just and inclusive financial system.
Basiskonto: basic payment account
Zahlungskontengesetz (ZKG): Payment Accounts Act regulating the right to a basic account
Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht (BaFin): Federal Financial Supervisory Authority
Antidiskriminierungsstelle des Bundes: Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency
Verbraucherzentrale: consumer advice centre / consumer protection office
* The editorial team of the website strives to provide accurate information based on careful research and multiple sources. However, errors or incomplete information cannot be entirely ruled out. Please treat this text as an initial guide and always consult the competent authorities or a qualified legal professional for binding, up-to-date advice.
