How to Transfer Money from Your US LLC to Germany
Complete guide to sending money from your US business bank account to Germany (EUR). Compare fees, speeds, and regulations for Germany-bound transfers.
Quick Facts
In This Guide
Overview
If you own a US LLC and need to transfer money to Germany, you have several options ranging from traditional bank wires to modern fintech services. The best choice depends on the transfer amount, urgency, and whether you prioritize low fees or fast delivery.
Important Note for Germany
Germany uses SEPA (Single Euro Payments Area) for EUR transfers within Europe. For US-to-Germany transfers, SWIFT is used. IBAN is required for all German bank accounts.
Best Transfer Methods
Wise
Best overall option. Has European banking license.
Bank Wire (SWIFT)
IBAN (22 characters starting with DE) + BIC/SWIFT code required.
OFX
Good for amounts over €10,000.
N26 / Revolut
Digital banks popular in Germany. Good for tech-savvy users.
Fees & Speed Comparison
| Service | Fees | Speed | FX Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wise | 0.3–0.8% | 1–2 business days | Mid-market rate |
| Bank Wire (SWIFT) | $25–$45 | 1–3 business days | 1–2% markup |
| OFX | No transfer fee | 1–2 business days | 0.4–0.8% markup |
| N26 / Revolut | 0–1% | Instant to account, 1 day to German bank | Near mid-market |
Regulations & Requirements
When transferring money to Germany, be aware of these regulatory requirements:
- BaFin regulates financial services
- No foreign exchange controls within EU/EEA
- German banks require IBAN for all incoming transfers
- Large transfers (>€12,500) are reported to Bundesbank for statistical purposes
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- IBAN is mandatory — account number alone will not work
- German banks may charge €5–15 receiving fee for SWIFT transfers
- SEPA transfers from US are not possible — must use SWIFT or Wise
Tax Implications
Transferring money from your US LLC to Germany has important tax considerations on both sides:
- No US withholding on LLC distributions (disregarded entity)
- German residents must report worldwide income to Finanzamt
- US-Germany tax treaty provides favorable treatment
- FBAR filing required if aggregate foreign accounts exceed $10,000
Pro Tips for Transferring to Germany
- Always use IBAN format for German bank accounts (starts with DE)
- Wise EUR transfers are often credited within hours
- For recurring transfers, set up a Wise or OFX recurring payment
- Avoid bank-to-bank SWIFT for small amounts — fees are disproportionate
FBAR & US Reporting Requirements
FBAR (FinCEN Form 114): If you have foreign bank accounts (including in Germany) with an aggregate balance exceeding $10,000 at any time during the year, you must file an FBAR by April 15 (automatic extension to October 15).
FATCA (Form 8938): If your foreign financial assets exceed $50,000 at year-end (or $75,000 at any time), you must report them on Form 8938 with your tax return.
Form 5472: Your foreign-owned LLC must file Form 5472 annually to report transactions with foreign related parties, including transfers to your account in Germany.
Next Steps
File Form 5472
Report your LLC's transactions with foreign owners. Required annually.
FBAR Guide
Learn about foreign bank account reporting requirements.
Open a US Bank Account
Guide to opening a US business bank account for your foreign LLC.
Germany LLC Tax Guide
Complete tax guide for Germany residents who own a US LLC.
Get Tax Filing Reminders
Never miss a deadline. Get reminders for Form 5472, FBAR, and other filing deadlines.
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