German Phrase
Bei internationalen Überweisungen können Gebühren anfallen.
Meaning
This sentence is a standard financial disclaimer used to inform someone that cross-border transactions are not always free. It uses the modal verb 'können' to express possibility and the formal verb 'anfallen' to describe costs being incurred or arising.
When to use
Use this phrase in a professional or banking context when discussing money transfers outside of the local currency area or country. It is frequently seen on banking apps, websites, and in terms of service agreements.
✦Grammar Breakdown
BeiinternationalenÜberweisungenkönnenGebührenanfallen
Dative Case with 'Bei'
The preposition 'bei' always triggers the dative case, which is why 'internationalen' and 'Überweisungen' take the plural dative endings.
Separable Verb 'anfallen'
In this sentence, the modal verb 'können' pushes the infinitive 'anfallen' to the very end of the sentence.
🗨In Conversation
Ich möchte Geld nach Kanada schicken.
I would like to send money to Canada.
Bei internationalen Überweisungen können Gebühren anfallen.
Fees may apply for international transfers.
✕Common Mistakes
Bei internationalen Überweisungen können Gebühren fallen.
In a financial context, 'anfallen' is the correct term for fees appearing or being charged; 'fallen' simply means to drop or fall.
Bei internationale Überweisungen können Gebühren anfallen.
The preposition 'bei' requires the dative case, so the plural adjective must end in -en.
↔Alternatives
Es können Transaktionsgebühren entstehen.
Transaction fees may arise.
Auslandsüberweisungen sind oft kostenpflichtig.
Foreign transfers often incur costs.
Cultural Tip
In Germany, bank customers are very sensitive to hidden costs. Financial institutions are strictly regulated to ensure all 'Gebühren' (fees) are clearly listed before a transaction is finalized, especially for 'Auslandsüberweisungen' (international transfers) outside the SEPA zone.