Personal Loans
Without Schufa History
New to Germany with no Schufa file? Thats not the same as bad credit. Learn how to get a loan as a newcomer and build your German credit history.
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Understanding Schufa for Newcomers
The Schufa Paradox
The German credit rating system (Schufa) works differently from US or UK systems. Your score starts at 100% and degrades with negative events. However, for newcomers, the file is simply empty or non-existent.
Important: No Schufa history is NOT the same as bad Schufa. You are a blank slate, not a defaulter. This is actually better than having negative entries.
No Schufa (Newcomer)
- Empty or non-existent file
- New to Germany (under 2 years)
- No positive or negative history
- Seen as unknown risk
- Can get loans with income proof
Bad Schufa (Defaulter)
- Negative entries in file
- Missed payments, defaults
- Score below 90%
- Seen as high risk
- Limited to specialized lenders
How to Get a Loan Without Schufa History
1. Cash Flow Based Lenders
Some fintechs like N26 and digital banks use algorithm-based cash flow analysis. They look at your salary deposits and spending patterns rather than just the static Schufa score. If you have regular income, you may qualify.
2. Start Small to Build History
Consider getting a small loan (1,000-2,000) specifically to generate a positive Schufa entry. Pay it back on time, and you create a track record. This opens doors for larger loans later.
3. German Mobile Phone Contract
A postpaid mobile phone contract (Handyvertrag) is one of the easiest ways to start building Schufa history. Pay on time for 6 months, and you have a positive entry.
4. P2P Lending Platforms
Platforms like Auxmoney have more flexible criteria than traditional banks. Private investors fund the loans and may be willing to lend to newcomers with good income documentation.
No Schufa Loan FAQ
How do I check my Schufa status?
You can request a free Schufa self-disclosure (Datenkopie) once per year at meineschufa.de. This shows what data they have on you - or confirms you have no file yet.
Will applying for a loan hurt my non-existent Schufa?
Soft credit checks (Konditionsanfrage) do not affect your score. Only hard inquiries (Kreditanfrage) are recorded. Our comparison uses soft checks that do not impact your file.
How long does it take to build Schufa history?
Typically 6-12 months of positive credit behavior (phone contract, small loan, rent payments to Schufa-reporting landlords) creates a usable credit file.