Personal Loans for
Foreigners in Germany
Non-German? Expat? International worker? Understand exactly what you need to get a personal loan in Germany. Compare lenders with English support.
Compare Foreigner-Friendly Lenders
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Loan Eligibility by Visa Type
Niederlassungserlaubnis (Permanent Residence)
Eligibility: Full access to all loan products
No visa-related restrictions. Treated same as German citizens for lending purposes. Best rates available.
EU Blue Card
Eligibility: Good, with term matching rule
High-income status helps. Key barrier: loan term must not exceed visa validity. Apply for shorter terms or after extending your card.
Aufenthaltserlaubnis (Temporary Residence)
Eligibility: Possible with restrictions
Depends on purpose (work, family, study). Work permits with permanent contracts have better chances. Term matching rule applies.
Student Visa / Ausbildung
Eligibility: Very limited
Most banks require employment income. Student income (part-time, BAfoG) usually insufficient. Consider alternatives like overdrafts.
Tourist/Schengen Visa
Eligibility: Not possible
German residence registration (Anmeldung) is mandatory. Non-residents cannot open German bank accounts or apply for loans.
Documents Required for Foreigners
Identity & Residence
- Valid passport (all pages with visas)
- Aufenthaltstitel (residence permit card)
- Meldebescheinigung (registration certificate)
- Work permit (if separate from residence card)
Employment & Income
- Employment contract (German or official translation)
- Last 3 pay slips (Gehaltsabrechnungen)
- Bank statements (3 months, showing salary deposits)
- For self-employed: Tax returns, BWA
Language Tip
Many lenders accept documents in English. For other languages, you may need certified translations (beeidigte bersetzung). Employment contracts are often the document that requires translation.
Common Challenges for Foreigners
VideoIdent Rejection
Some foreign passports fail automated video verification.
Solution: Request PostIdent (physical verification at Deutsche Post) or use your electronic residence card instead.
No Schufa History
Newcomers have empty credit files.
Solution: Use lenders that evaluate cash flow (salary deposits) rather than just Schufa score. Start with smaller amounts.
Term vs Visa Mismatch
Loan term exceeds visa validity.
Solution: Apply for shorter loan terms, or extend your visa first, then apply for the loan.
Probation Period
Still in 6-month trial period at work.
Solution: Wait until probation ends, or use alternatives (overdraft, P2P lending, mini loans).