What Documents and Requirements Does a Foreigner Need for a Mortgage in Germany?
For banks, the passport or citizenship is not the key factor — what matters most are financial stability and transparent income.
Required Documents:
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Passport or ID (citizenship is not decisive).
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Proof of income:
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for employees – employment contract and the last 3–6 payslips;
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for entrepreneurs/self-employed – tax returns for the past 2–3 years + bank statements.
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SCHUFA report (for residents in Germany) or credit history from the country of residence.
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Proof of own funds (Equity) – e.g., bank accounts, deposits, savings.
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Purchase contract / Property exposé.
❗️Not required:
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Registration address (Meldeadresse) in Germany – many banks grant loans to non-residents if income and assets are transparent.
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German citizenship.
Critically important:
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Stable, verifiable income.
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Official, documented financial records – banks do not accept “grey” or informal schemes.
Example: Apartment for €300,000
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Purchase price | €300,000 |
| Additional costs (taxes, notary, land registry, agent) | ~10 % = €30,000 |
| Total cost | €330,000 |
Banks expect equity of at least €80,000–€100,000 (24–30 %).
The remaining amount can be financed through a mortgage.
If your income is stable and properly documented, your chances of approval are high.
