Illegal would by a hyperbole. But the noose is tightening a bit.

There are upcoming limits for cash transactions (10K, countries can opt to go lower), and strong requirements for identity verification at 3K or more euros in cash.

See: https://www.deloittelegal.de/dl/en/services/legal/perspectiv...

EDIT: The other side of the coin is that banks are _required_ to give legal residents of a country a basic account that can be used for payments.

Also illegal in Denmark. You need a NemKonto by law. Also making cash payments over 15000 is illegal since 2024. So you can't make a large purchase without a bank transfer.

Such a huge invasion of privacy.

Not illegal per se in Germany but you won't find a legal job that doesn't require you to have a bank account. Benefits will also only be paid electronically (exceptions for some asylum seekers apply).

You also cannot get a tax refund or pay taxes without a bank account.

Spain: you must be paid through a bank if you

-have a steady contract -are paid more than 1000€ for a job (say you are self-employed).