Published: 11.05.2026
Some German banks are blocking accounts held by Russian and Belarusian citizens or asking them to provide proof of a valid residence permit. Banks cite EU sanctions compliance and anti-money-laundering duties; the European Commission says sanctions should not apply to holders of residence permits, permanent residence, citizenship in the EU, EEA or Switzerland, or long-term type D visas.
According to sources, access to a German bank account for Russian and Belarusian citizens increasingly depends on proof of residence status and the bank’s individual risk assessment. For people relocating, this can lead to interruptions in card use and payments, particularly when a residence permit or long-term visa is not documented as valid. The issue primarily affects Russian and Belarusian customers of German banks, including people already living in Germany. It is worth considering when planning a move because proof of lawful residence may be requested not only when opening an account but also later to maintain access to funds.
- 🤔 dw.com