What Is a Blocked Account in Germany?
A Blocked Account (Sperrkonto) is a special bank account required by the German Embassy for international students applying for a student visa. It proves that you have enough money to live in Germany for one year. You cannot access the full amount at once; instead, you receive a fixed monthly allowance after arriving in Germany.
A blocked account is mandatory for most non-EU international students because it ensures financial stability during your stay.
Why Do You Need a Blocked Account for Germany?
The German government wants to make sure students can cover their:
- Accommodation
- Food and groceries
- Health insurance
- Travel costs
- University expenses
- Daily living costs
A blocked account guarantees you can support yourself without financial stress.
Without proof of a blocked account (or alternative financial proof), your student visa will not be approved.
Minimum Amount Required for Blocked Account (2025–2026)
The required amount is updated every year based on living expenses in Germany.
Current Blocked Amount: €11,208 per year
This equals €934 per month, which you will receive after starting your student life in Germany.
How the Blocked Account Works
You deposit: €11,208 in your blocked account before your visa appointment.
After arrival in Germany, you get: €934 per month transferred to your normal German bank account for daily expenses.
You cannot withdraw the entire amount at once; it is released monthly to help you manage your budget.
Best Blocked Account Providers for Germany
Several financial institutions offer blocked accounts for international students. The most popular providers are:
1. Fintiba
- Approved by the German Embassy
- Fast online process
- Integrated insurance packages
- Suitable for students from all countries
2. Expatrio
- Low service fee
- Fast account activation
- Value packages available
3. Coracle
- No monthly fees
- Easy online interface
- Quick approval
4. Deutsche Bank (Traditional Bank)
- Long processing time
- Paper-based system
- Still accepted but less preferred
Most students choose Fintiba, Expatrio or Coracle because they are faster, simpler and embassy-approved.
Documents Required for Opening a Blocked Account
Although requirements vary slightly by provider, typically you need:
- Passport copy
- Admission letter (recommended)
- Visa application details
- Completed blocked account form
- Photograph (for identity verification)
- Payment receipt for initial deposit
Online providers only require scanned copies, making the process simple.
How to Open a Blocked Account for Germany (Step-by-Step Guide)
Follow this process to activate your blocked account smoothly:
Step 1: Choose an approved provider
Fintiba, Expatrio and Coracle are the most common choices.
Step 2: Register online
Create an account and fill in your personal details.
Step 3: Upload required documents
Passport copy, admission letter and basic information.
Step 4: Transfer the blocked amount (€11,208)
International transfer may take 3–5 days depending on your bank.
Step 5: Receive confirmation
Your provider will issue a Blocked Account Opening Confirmation, required during your visa appointment.
Step 6: Arrive in Germany and complete verification
After entering Germany, provide your local address and open a normal bank account.
Step 7: Start receiving monthly allowance (€934)
Your blocked provider transfers the amount to your local bank account every month.
Blocked Account Processing Time
Processing time varies by provider:
- Online providers: 2–5 days
- Deutsche Bank: 4–8 weeks (sometimes longer)
To avoid delays, open your blocked account at least 4–6 weeks before your visa appointment.
Blocked Account Charges (2025–2026)
Initial Setup Fee
Varies by provider: €49 – €150
Monthly Fee
Most providers charge: €4 – €10 per month
International Transfer Fee
Your bank may charge €20–€40 for international payments.
The total cost is affordable and necessary for visa approval.
Can You Use Alternatives Instead of a Blocked Account?
Some students may qualify for alternative financial proof:
- Scholarship confirmation letter
- Sponsor letter from a German resident (Verpflichtungserklärung)
- Fully funded program
However, most students require a blocked account for their visa.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Sending money from someone else’s bank without proof
- Not transferring the exact amount (€11,208)
- Applying too close to the visa appointment
- Using non-approved service providers
- Providing unclear passport scans
Avoiding these mistakes saves time and prevents visa delays.
Conclusion
The blocked account is a crucial requirement for international students applying for a German student visa. It proves your financial ability to live in Germany and helps you manage your monthly expenses once you arrive. By choosing a trusted provider, preparing documents early and transferring funds on time, you can complete the process quickly and avoid visa delays.
With the right preparation, opening a blocked account becomes a simple step toward starting your study journey in Germany.
FAQs
1. What is the required blocked account amount for Germany in 2025?
The required amount for blocked account is €11,208, which equals €934 per month.
2. Is the blocked account mandatory for Germany?
Yes. Most international students must show a blocked account to prove financial stability for the German student visa.
3. How many days does it take to open a blocked account?
Online providers take 2–5 days to open a blocked account and traditional banks may take several weeks.
4. Can I withdraw the full blocked account amount?
No. You can only access €934 per month, released into your local German bank account.
5. Which provider is best for blocked accounts in Germany?
Fintiba, Expatrio and Coracle are the most popular due to quick processing and embassy approval.
6. When should I open my blocked account?
Ideally 4–6 weeks before your visa appointment to avoid delays.
7. Does the blocked account amount change every year?
Yes. The German government updates the required amount based on the cost of living.
8. What happens if I don’t have a blocked account?
Your student visa will likely be rejected because financial proof is mandatory.