There are clear rules for bank transfers in Germany. Electronic transfers should arrive within one bank working day. The time may vary depending on the type and timing of the transfer.
There are strict deadlines for euro transfers within the EEA. Electronic orders are usually processed within one day. Over-the-counter paper-based transfers can take up to two days.
The duration also depends on the time of the transfer. Payment service providers often have a cut-off time between 5 and 8 pm. Transfers after this time are not processed until the next day.
Transfers in other currencies or outside the EEA may take longer. There are no fixed deadlines here. It can take several days for the money to reach the recipient’s account.
Key findings
- Electronic transfers usually take one bank working day
- Paper-based transfers can take up to two days
- The cut-off time is usually between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.
- Weekends and public holidays do not count towards the processing time
- Longer deadlines apply for non-euro transfers and transfers outside the EEA
How long does a domestic transfer take
In Germany, transfers take different lengths of time depending on how they are made. Here are the most important types and their times.
Regular SEPA transfers
SEPA transfers are the standard in Germany. They are usually executed within one banking day. The deadline for electronic SEPA credit transfers is a maximum of one banking day.
The transfer is usually received between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Online banking transactions
Transfers via online banking are quick and easy. They follow the same rules as SEPA transfers. It can take up to two days for the money to arrive.
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Paper-based transfers at the counter
Over-the-counter transfers take longer. They can take up to two bank working days. This is due to the additional effort required for manual processing.
| Transfer type | Maximum duration | Acceptance deadline |
|---|---|---|
| SEPA credit transfer | 1 banking day | 2 p.m. – 8 p.m. |
| Online banking | 1-2 banking days | 2 p.m. – 8 p.m. |
| Paper-based bank transfer | 2 banking days | Closing time |
Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays do not count as bank working days. You should take this into account for important payments and allow sufficient time.
Fast transfer types and their transit times
Money transfers can be faster than you think. There are fast payment options in addition to the regular ones. These fast services have shorter waiting times.
Fast transfers until 4 pm
A quick transfer makes it possible to transfer money on the same day. The order must be received by 4 pm. This means that the money reaches the recipient on the same day.
This method is ideal for urgent payments in Germany.
Real-time transfers within seconds
Real-time transfers are even faster. They transfer money in seconds. They are available around the clock, even at weekends and on public holidays.
Cost comparison of express services
Express transfers are practical, but they cost money. The prices depend on the bank and the service. Express transfers often cost between 5 and 25 euros. Real-time transfers are usually cheaper.
| Type of transfer | Duration | Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Instant transfer | A few hours to 1 day | 5 – 25 € |
| Real-time transfer | Seconds | Varies, often cheaper |
The choice between instant transfer and real-time transfer depends on urgency and budget. Both offer fast solutions for urgent money transfers.
Special times and international transfers
International money transfers have many factors. We look at weekend and public holiday transfers as well as transfers abroad.
Weekends and public holidays
There are no transfers on weekends and public holidays. This applies to sender and recipient countries. Plan your transfers to avoid delays.
EU international transfers
Transfers in the EU have special rules. A SEPA international transfer must arrive within one banking day. Online transfers are faster than over-the-counter transfers.
Non-EU transfers and exotic currencies
Transfers outside the EU or in rare currencies take longer. Some factors influence the duration:
- Currency exchange: Extends the processing time
- SWIFT network: Transfers pass through up to three correspondent banks
- Exotic currencies: Up to 14 working days
| Transfer type | Duration | Special features |
|---|---|---|
| SEPA (EU) | 1 bank working day | Inexpensive, fast |
| Non-EU | 4-7 days | Depending on destination country |
| Exotic currencies | Up to 14 days | Longer processing time |
International transfers require patience. Plan your transfer early and think about delays. That way your money will arrive on time.
Conclusion
The duration of bank transactions depends on the type and destination. SEPA transfers in Germany usually take one day. Paper form transfers can take up to two days.
It is important to know the bank working days. These are usually between 3 and 6 pm.
International transfers take longer. Transfers within the EU in non-euro currencies take four days. Transfers outside the EU can take three to seven working days.
Real-time transfers are faster. They are available around the clock and deliver the money in seconds.
When planning, you should take public holidays and weekends into account. Incorrect details or large amounts can cause delays. Real-time transfers are becoming increasingly popular and could soon be the norm.
FAQ
How long does a normal SEPA transfer take in Germany?
What is the difference between an online transfer and a bank counter transfer?
How does a quick transfer work and how fast is it?
What is a real-time transfer and how does it differ from other types of transfer?
How long do transfers take on weekends or public holidays?
How long does a transfer to another EU country take?
What factors can influence the duration of a transfer?
Are there ways to speed up a transfer?
