How long does it take to open an Altersvorsorgedepot?

Tilman Freyenhagen

Published on 14 June 2026 · Updated on 15 July 2026 · Managing Director & Partner, Alsterspree Verlag GmbH

How long it takes to open an account: the key deadlines at a glance

Opening a new Altersvorsorgedepot (AVD) through the pure online application usually takes only around 10 to 15 minutes. While final activation via modern identification methods such as VideoIdent is often completed within 1 to 2 working days, a Riester transfer typically takes up to three months for contractual reasons^[1]. Your first savings plan can generally be set up immediately after successful activation. With our subsidy calculator you can quickly and easily work out in advance how much state subsidy you will receive, so you can start straight away with the optimal savings rate.

Comparing the identification methods

The actual time it takes for your account to be activated depends largely on the identification method you choose. The modern VideoIdent process via PC or smartphone takes just 5 to 10 minutes on average and allows quick approval within a few hours or by the next working day^[2]. Anyone who instead uses the classic PostIdent process at a post office branch should expect a total duration of several working days, since the physical postal route and manual processing delay activation^[2]. For decisive independent investors, we recommend the fully digital process to avoid unnecessary waiting time.

The timeframe extends considerably if you want to transfer an existing Riester balance. When switching, you generally need to observe a statutory notice period of three months to the end of the quarter with your old provider^[1]. In our knowledge section we explain in detail how to arrange the transfer without tax disadvantages. Please note: all deadlines and calculations mentioned are for illustration and do not constitute investment advice within the meaning of § 1 Abs. 1a Nr. 1a KWG.

Step 1: digital registration with the provider (5 to 10 minutes)

Thanks to modern digital processes, the first step towards your new Altersvorsorgedepot can be completed in just around 5 to 10 minutes. For this entirely paperless online application on a PC or smartphone, you only need your personal details and your tax identification number (Steuer-ID). Immediately afterwards, you set up your desired savings plan and, if applicable, the standing allowance application. While the application itself takes only a few minutes, the subsequent identification and activation by the provider generally takes a further 1 to 2 working days. For more in-depth guides and regulatory background, our knowledge section is available to you free of charge.

Different identification routes and Riester transfers

The actual time it takes to complete the account opening depends largely on the identification method chosen. If you use the modern VideoIdent process or the online ID function (eID), identification is usually completed within a few minutes^[2]. The classic PostIdent process at a branch of Deutsche Post, by contrast, takes several days because of the postal route. Completely different deadlines apply if you want to transfer an existing Riester balance: here, you typically need to reckon with a notice period of three months to the end of the quarter with your old provider for contractual reasons^[3]. Before switching, you should calculate the financial impact precisely—it is best to use our interactive subsidy calculator for this, to compare state allowances and costs transparently.

Thanks to these fully digitised processes, the hurdle for independent investors is minimal. As soon as activation follows identification, your first savings plan can often start at the next execution date. If you are still unsure which partner offers the best terms for your investment strategy, our neutral provider comparison can help you assess the various neobroker offers on a well-founded basis.

Step 2: identity verification via VideoIdent and eID (5 to 10 minutes)

After you have filled in the online application for your new Altersvorsorgedepot, the legally required identity check follows. To make the process as simple and efficient as possible for independent investors, modern providers primarily offer two digital routes: the classic VideoIdent process and identification via the online ID function (eID). Both methods eliminate the need for a physical trip to a post office branch and shorten the identity check to just a few minutes.

The VideoIdent process: a live conversation via camera

With the VideoIdent process, you are connected by video call to a trained employee of a certified identity service provider. For this process you need a stable internet connection, a smartphone or a webcam, and your valid identity document (identity card or passport). The employee guides you to hold the document at various angles in front of the camera so the security features can be checked. The conversation usually takes five to ten minutes, though there may be short waiting times depending on the provider.

The eID function: identification in seconds with no waiting

Identification via the electronic identity function (eID) is even faster and fully automated. Here you use the online ID function of your identity card together with an NFC-enabled smartphone and a suitable identification app such as the AusweisApp^[4]. You simply hold the ID card against the back of your phone and enter your self-chosen six-digit PIN. The data is transmitted, encrypted and completely tamper-proof, within seconds, without you needing to speak to an employee^[4].

Whichever route you choose, digital identification ensures your account application is processed as quickly as possible. After a successful check, the provider generally activates your Altersvorsorgedepot within a few hours, or at most one to two working days. You can find further detailed explanations of all administrative steps and legal foundations in our knowledge section.

Step 3: the classic PostIdent process at a branch (2 to 3 days)

If you opt against digital identification via video chat, you can have the legally required identity check carried out in the classic way at a branch of Deutsche Post^[2]. Compared with digital routes, this proven method takes a little longer: expect an additional processing time of two to three working days. This delay results mainly from postal transit times, since the physical documents must be sent by post to the relevant provider after the branch visit. For independent investors who value personal interaction, or whose technical setup does not allow for VideoIdent, this process nonetheless remains a secure option for opening their Altersvorsorgedepot.

The process and documents required at the post office branch

To get through the process at the post office branch smoothly, you should plan the steps in advance and have all the required documents ready. Our knowledge section offers detailed background reports and checklists on this. To identify yourself on site, you essentially need two things: the PostIdent coupon and a valid identity document.

• The PostIdent coupon: you receive this coupon from your chosen provider by email or as a direct download after the online application. You can either take it with you printed out or show it digitally in the POSTIDENT app on your smartphone.
• A valid identity document: a German identity card or passport is generally sufficient. Foreign nationals often additionally need a current German registration certificate.
• The physical check: on site, the post office employee checks your details against the documents and has you sign. This data is then forwarded electronically and by post to your provider, which is what causes the postal transit times mentioned.

Once the PostIdent process is complete, the post office sends the data to your provider. After the provider has reviewed it, your new Altersvorsorgedepot is activated. If you plan to transfer an existing balance, bear in mind that this can take several weeks anyway for contractual reasons. For the pure account opening, the PostIdent process offers a very high level of reliability despite the short delay of a few days.

Step 4: review and activation by the broker (1 to 2 working days)

Applying for an Altersvorsorgedepot takes only around 10 to 15 minutes thanks to modern online processes, while final activation usually follows after 1 to 2 working days. As soon as you have successfully proven your identity, the provider reviews the submitted documents and sets up your account. As a rule, the Altersvorsorgedepot is ready to use within 24 to 48 hours at direct banks and online brokers^[5].

During this brief window, banks run internal review processes in the background. These include mandatory regulatory checks such as identity and tax compliance verification. Once these are successfully completed, your personal access credentials are generated and the system sends official notification of your account's successful activation, by email or push message in online banking.

Important for independent investors to know: a new savings plan can be started immediately after activation. However, anyone who wants to transfer an existing balance from an old Riester-Rente needs to allow for a significantly longer wait. Such a transfer is complex for contractual reasons and, depending on the provider surrendering the funds, generally takes several weeks up to three months. To analyse the financial effects of a switch precisely in advance, our neutral subsidy calculator on the knowledge section is available to you.

Please note that all calculations and comparisons shown in the calculator are purely illustrative and do not constitute investment advice within the meaning of the Kreditwesengesetz (Not investment advice within the meaning of § 1 Abs. 1a Nr. 1a KWG).

The first savings plan: when does the first subsidised capital flow in?

Applying for an Altersvorsorgedepot usually takes only around 10 to 15 minutes thanks to modern online processes. After the successful identity check, the new account is generally activated within 1 to 2 working days. As soon as the account is active, you can set up your first ETF savings plan directly in the online portal, to start building subsidised wealth without delay. If you want to transfer existing capital instead (for example as part of a switch), a Riester transfer takes considerably more time for contractual reasons. Here, a regulatory deadline of up to three months often elapses between the providers involved.

Setting up and automatic allowance application

When setting up your first savings plan, you flexibly choose the desired execution day yourself, usually the 1st or 15th of the respective month. On this chosen date, your agreed personal contribution is automatically debited by direct debit from your registered reference account. The new Altersvorsorgedepot, available as a state-subsidised retirement option from 1 January 2027, thus offers you a fast and straightforward entry into private retirement provision^[6]. What's special about this system is that you don't have to painstakingly apply for the state allowances yourself each year. This application, and the ongoing crediting directly to the account, happens fully automatically through the portal of your chosen provider. To calculate the optimal balance between your own savings contribution and the maximum state allowance precisely in advance, our subsidy calculator is at your side. Further in-depth information on the deadlines and legal framework is available in our knowledge section.

The Riester switch in particular: why the transfer takes several weeks

While applying for a modern Altersvorsorgedepot online is usually done in 10 to 15 minutes, and activation follows after 1 to 2 working days, switching an existing Riester contract requires patience. If you want to transfer your Riester balance to a new Altersvorsorgedepot, you need to allow for a transition period of several months. This is mainly due to the statutory notice periods and the contractual arrangements with your old provider. Nonetheless, this step is worthwhile for many independent investors who want to benefit from the more flexible investment options and potentially higher returns of the new model. A close look at the timeline helps you plan the switch optimally.

Statutory notice periods and BaFin requirements for the transfer

The most time-consuming part of the switch is the statutory notice period on your old Riester contract. As a rule, you need to observe a notice period of three months to the end of the quarter^[1]. That means: if you give notice in January, the switch only takes effect at the end of the second quarter. Once this period has elapsed, the purely technical transfer of the capital takes over. The Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht (BaFin) has issued a clear guideline on this. Accordingly, the actual account transfer from the old provider to the new provider should be completed within no more than three weeks. This BaFin requirement ensures that your money is quickly reinvested after the official end of the contract.

Besides the duration alone, costs also play an important role in your decision. To make switching attractive for savers, a statutory cap on switching costs applies. If you switch before a term of five years has elapsed, you may be charged no more than 150 euros; after that, switching is generally completely free of charge. With the subsidy calculator you can transparently simulate the cost impact of a switch and find out when you reach the break-even point. You can also use the knowledge section to read detailed guides on all the tax rules of the Riester reform. Please note: all calculations and comparisons are for illustration only (Not investment advice within the meaning of § 1 Abs. 1a Nr. 1a KWG).

Tips for savers: how to speed up your account opening

Applying for an Altersvorsorgedepot usually takes only 10 to 15 minutes thanks to modern online processes. Activation by the provider generally follows within 1 to 2 working days, provided you submit all your data correctly. To speed up this process as much as possible, independent investors should have all necessary documents ready in advance. Identification via the VideoIdent process in particular saves you valuable time, since the online check in the live chat usually takes only 5 to 10 minutes^[7]. By comparison, the classic PostIdent process at a post office branch takes several days because of the postal route. You can find a detailed overview of all the steps in our knowledge section.

• Valid identity document: have your valid identity card or passport ready for the VideoIdent process, to confirm your identity online within a few minutes.
• Tax identification number: this eleven-digit ID is mandatory for opening a tax-subsidised Altersvorsorgedepot and should be kept at hand.
• Stable internet connection: make sure you have a good camera and adequate lighting, so the security features on your identity document can be scanned correctly during the video chat.
• Prepare switching documents: keep your previous Riester provider number and contract number ready, in case you want to transfer an existing balance to the new account.

The time factor in a Riester switch

While opening the account itself is digital and straightforward, switching from an existing Riester contract requires patience. Such a Riester transfer generally takes up to three months because of statutory deadlines and the bureaucratic processing between the institutions involved. To speed up this transition, you should submit the complete switching documents together with the opening application. The new account provider then generally handles the notice to the old provider as well as the transfer of the capital. Before switching, it is advisable to calculate the financial benefits and the future state subsidy precisely using our subsidy calculator.