Apply for a KfW subsidy loan
Low-interest KfW loans for home ownership, energy-efficient renovations, starting a business, or higher education—apply through your primary bank (primary bank principle).
How to proceed
- 1
Choose the right grant program
For example, the Homeownership Program, the ERP Start-up Loan.
- 2
Submit the application through your primary bank
KfW provides loans exclusively through banks and savings banks (the pass-through principle).
- 3
Loan Agreement and Disbursement
Upon approval by KfW through the customer's primary bank.
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 3 weeks
Official: max. approx. 1 months
Online application
In person or by post
Common mistakes
- • Application submitted directly to KfW rather than through the applicant's bank
- • Project started before the application was submitted
Common reasons for rejection
- • Insufficient creditworthiness
- • Application submitted only after the project began (for programs requiring an application before the start)
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Individuals, entrepreneurs, and businesses, depending on the grant program.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. approx. 3 weeks
Success rate
approx. 75.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Application submitted directly to KfW rather than through the applicant's bank
- •Project started before the application was submitted
Common reasons for rejection
- •Insufficient creditworthiness
- •Application submitted only after the project began (for programs requiring an application before the start)
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
Read the decision carefully: often submitting missing documents or reapplying helps more than an objection.
Related services
Questions & Answers
Can the application be submitted directly to KfW?▼
No, KfW loans can only be applied for through your primary bank (primary bank principle).