Opening a student bank account is absolutely essential for students intending to study in Austria in order to control regular costs. Whether you are a local or international student, having a student bank account helps you handle utility and grocery payments, pay rent, get allowances or part-time job earnings. By providing customized accounts with low fees and special features for students, Austrian banks enable you to effectively handle your money while concentrating on your studies.
Why you should have a student bank account
Most Austrian colleges and landlords assume their students have a local banking account. For scholarships, student grants, or part-time pay especially, this is crucial. Commonly used for tuition payments and other regular expenses, a student account also provides simple access to SEPA (Single Euro Payments Area) transfers. Student bank accounts typically come with no or very low monthly maintenance fees, online and mobile banking access, and ATM withdrawal options across Austria. A few banks also provide incentives including free debit cards, shopping discounts, or even a little welcome bonus.
Qualifications for eligibility
To qualify for a student banking account in Austria, you generally need to:
- Enroll at an accredited Austrian college or university.
- Be within a specific age range (usually based on the bank; under 27 or 30 years old).
- Show evidence of enrollment—a student ID or a confirming letter from your university.
- Show a valid passport or national ID together with a Meldezelt residence registration form.
While non-EU/EEA students may have to show a residence permit or visa, EU/EEA students typically have less administrative steps.
Required paperwork
Usually opening a student banking account requires:
- Valid passport or EU ID card.
- Residence registration certificate (Meldezettel)
- Evidence of enrolment in a university
- Austrian residence permit for non-EU/EEA students
A local address or mobile number may also be asked for by some banks.
Top banks in Austria providing student accounts
Many Austrian banks provide outstanding features in student-specific accounts. These are some often used choices:
Erste bank & sparkasse
No monthly fee until age 27, free debit card, online and mobile banking, and access to a wide ATM network.
Raiffeisen bank
Designed especially for students under 27, offers digital banking, free account management, and occasionally a small welcome gift.
Bank Austria
User-friendly mobile app, student debit card, and free account management up to age 30.
BAWAG P.S.K.
Offers youth and student accounts with online banking and no maintenance fee for students.
N26 (digital bank)
It is a fully online bank and it is perfect for international students. There is no necessary branch visit; accounts can be opened in English.
Every bank offers something different, thus before deciding which one to use, it is important to compare their characteristics, costs, and accessibility.
Characteristics to seek for
Search for these characteristics when selecting a student bank account:
- No monthly charges – most student accounts let off maintenance costs.
- Free debit cards – made for daily purchases and ATM withdrawals
- Online and mobile banking – lets you quickly manage your money.
- ATM access – make sure the bank has plenty of ATMs close by your house or university.
- Overdraft facilities – some banks let students have limited small overdrafts.
- International transfers – handy for receiving money from home or paying tuition from abroad.
How to open a student bank account
Here is how:
- Select a bank depending on cost, policies, and closeness to your house or university.
- Make an appointment or apply online—some banks let complete digital setup.
- Get ready your paperwork: passport, Meldezatel, enrolment records, etc.
- Attend your appointment or finish the online validation.
- Get your banking credentials and debit card either at the branch or by post.
Digital banks such as N26 could be set up in minutes and just need an online video ID check.
Choose a traditional or digital bank depending on your lifestyle and needs as an Austrian student.
You may also find these articles helpful
Frequently Asked Questions on Austria
Understanding the impact of criminal records on immigration to Austria
Assessing social benefits and welfare as an immigrant in Austria
