A Complete Guide for International Students and Visa Applicants in Germany
When you plan to study, work, or train (Ausbildung) in Germany, one of the most important financial requirements is opening a Blocked Account, also known as a Sperrkonto in German. It is a mandatory part of your visa application process and plays a crucial role in proving your financial stability during your stay in Germany.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the Blocked Account—what it is, why it’s needed, how much money you must deposit, and how you can open it step-by-step. By the end, you’ll have a complete understanding of how this process works and how to avoid common mistakes when setting up your Blocked Account.
🧾 What Is a Blocked Account (Sperrkonto)?
A Blocked Account is a special type of bank account required by the German government for international students, Ausbildung trainees, and job seekers who wish to stay in Germany for a long period.
It serves as proof of financial resources — a guarantee to the German authorities that you can afford to live in Germany without needing public financial assistance.
The term “blocked” means that the money you deposit cannot be withdrawn all at once. Instead, a fixed amount is released to you every month after you arrive in Germany. This ensures that you have consistent financial support throughout your stay.
For example, if you are a student, you’ll get a certain amount transferred monthly to your local German account for rent, food, transportation, and other living expenses.
🎯 Why Is a Blocked Account Required?
Germany has strict visa and immigration rules to ensure that foreign residents, students, or trainees are financially stable during their stay. The Blocked Account is required mainly for:
- Student Visa applicants
- Ausbildung (Vocational Training) participants
- Job seekers or language course students
- Researchers or exchange students
The German government wants to make sure that international residents can support themselves financially without depending on state welfare programs.
By maintaining a Blocked Account, you show the authorities that you have enough funds to cover your living costs for at least one year.
💶 How Much Money Do You Need to Deposit in a Blocked Account?
The amount required in the Blocked Account changes slightly every year based on the cost of living in Germany. As of 2025, the minimum amount required for international students is approximately €11,208 per year.
This means:
- You will need to deposit €11,208 before your visa appointment.
- The amount is divided equally over 12 months.
- You can withdraw €934 per month after arriving in Germany.
However, this amount may vary slightly depending on your visa type:
| Visa Type | Required Annual Amount (€) | Monthly Withdrawal Limit (€) |
|---|---|---|
| Student Visa | 11,208 | 934 |
| Ausbildung (Vocational Training) | 11,208 | 934 |
| Job Seeker Visa | 11,208 | 934 |
| Language Course Visa | 11,208 | 934 |
Keep in mind that if your stay in Germany is longer than 12 months, you may have to top up your account or show proof of additional funds later.
🏦 Who Needs a Blocked Account?
You need to open a Blocked Account if you are from a non-EU country and are applying for:
- Student Visa – For those enrolled in universities or colleges.
- Ausbildung Visa – For vocational training programs in Germany.
- Job Seeker Visa – For skilled professionals searching for work in Germany.
- Language Course Visa – For attending long-term language courses.
- Research or Internship Visa – For academic exchange or research purposes.
If you have a scholarship or a guarantee letter (Verpflichtungserklärung) from a sponsor living in Germany, you may be exempted from opening a Blocked Account. However, most applicants still prefer the Blocked Account because it provides financial security and peace of mind.
📋 Documents Required to Open a Blocked Account
The exact requirements depend on the provider or bank you choose, but typically, you’ll need the following documents:
- Valid Passport
- University Admission Letter or Ausbildung Contract
- Visa Application Form
- Proof of Address (if available)
- Recent Passport-size Photo
- Declaration of Purpose (optional)
You may also need to provide your national ID or student proof if requested by the bank.
⚙️ How to Open a Blocked Account – Step-by-Step Process
Let’s go through the entire process of opening a Blocked Account. Whether you are applying from India, Nepal, Nigeria, or any other country, the process is quite similar.
Step 1: Choose an Approved Provider
Germany has several approved and reliable service providers for Blocked Accounts. Some are traditional banks, while others are digital banks or fintech companies specializing in international student services.
You should choose a provider that:
- Is officially recognized by the German Federal Foreign Office
- Offers quick processing and easy document verification
- Has low fees and transparent currency exchange rates
- Provides English-language support
Step 2: Fill Out the Online Application Form
After selecting your provider, visit their website and complete the online Blocked Account application form.
You’ll need to provide:
- Your full name and date of birth
- Passport number
- Email address and phone number
- University or Ausbildung details
- Intended date of travel
Make sure that all details match your passport exactly, as mismatched information may delay your application.
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
Next, upload scanned copies of your required documents:
- Passport
- Admission or Ausbildung letter
- Proof of residence (if available)
Your provider will verify your identity and documents. Some providers may conduct a quick video verification to confirm your details.
Step 4: Deposit the Required Amount
Once your application is approved, you’ll receive your Blocked Account details (IBAN and BIC) for an international bank transfer.
You must deposit the total amount required (e.g., €11,208 for a student visa) plus service charges and transfer fees.
Keep in mind:
- The transfer can take 3–7 business days to arrive in Germany.
- Always transfer from an account in your name to avoid delays.
Once the money is received, you’ll get a confirmation document or Blocked Account opening certificate, which you must show at your visa interview.
Step 5: Receive Your Blocked Account Confirmation Letter
The provider will issue a confirmation letter stating:
- Your name
- Account number
- Total amount blocked
- Monthly withdrawal limit
This confirmation letter is an official proof of your financial resources and must be included in your visa application documents.
Step 6: Open a Local German Bank Account (After Arrival)
When you arrive in Germany, you’ll need a local current account (Girokonto) to receive your monthly allowance from your Blocked Account.
Once you’ve registered your address (Anmeldung) and received your residence permit, you can open this local account at any bank.
Your monthly amount (e.g., €934) will automatically transfer from your Blocked Account to your Girokonto every month.
📉 How Long Does It Take to Open a Blocked Account?
The entire process can take anywhere between 3 to 14 days, depending on your provider and how quickly you submit the required documents.
Here’s a general timeline:
| Stage | Average Duration |
|---|---|
| Online application | 1 day |
| Document verification | 1–3 days |
| International transfer | 3–7 days |
| Confirmation issuance | 1–2 days |
To avoid delays, make sure your details are accurate and complete all forms carefully.
💡 Important Tips Before Opening a Blocked Account
- Start early: Begin the process at least 4–6 weeks before your visa appointment.
- Check recognition: Only choose providers recognized by the German Embassy.
- Keep extra funds: You’ll need to pay service fees and currency conversion charges.
- Don’t use third-party agents: Always open your account directly with the provider to avoid fraud.
- Double-check information: Any error in your passport details or admission letter may cause rejection.
- Maintain backup proof: Always download and keep your transaction receipts for embassy verification.
🧮 What Happens After You Arrive in Germany?
Once you arrive in Germany and complete your Anmeldung (address registration), follow these steps:
- Open a local bank account (Girokonto).
- Submit your local bank details to your Blocked Account provider.
- Activate your monthly transfer.
- Every month, your provider will release €934 to your local account.
- You can use this money for rent, groceries, health insurance, transportation, and personal expenses.
If you stay beyond one year, you’ll need to either extend your Blocked Account or top it up for the next 12 months.
🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid
Opening a Blocked Account might seem simple, but many students make mistakes that cause delays or visa rejections. Avoid the following:
- Transferring money from someone else’s account: Always use your own account for the deposit.
- Incorrect name spelling: Make sure your passport and application details match.
- Late transfer: Start early; international transfers can take several days.
- Using unrecognized providers: Your visa might be rejected if the embassy doesn’t accept that provider.
- Forgetting to activate the account after arrival: Without activation, you won’t receive your monthly payments.
Being careful with these details ensures your process goes smoothly.
📈 Can You Withdraw All the Money at Once?
No, you cannot withdraw all the money from your Blocked Account at once. The entire purpose of the account is to ensure that you spend your money responsibly during your stay.
Each month, a fixed allowance is released to your German bank account (usually €934). You cannot exceed this limit, but any unused amount carries over to the next month.
If your visa is refused, you can request a refund, but only after providing proof of visa rejection and identity verification to your provider.
🧭 What Happens If You Don’t Have Enough Funds?
If you cannot deposit the full required amount, the embassy may refuse your visa. However, in some cases, students can combine a smaller Blocked Account with a sponsorship letter or scholarship certificate to fulfill the financial requirement.
Still, it’s always recommended to deposit the full amount in your Blocked Account for a higher visa approval chance.
🛡️ Is the Blocked Account Safe?
Yes, the Blocked Account is completely safe when opened with an approved and regulated provider. Your money remains secured under strict German financial laws, and you can always track your account balance through online portals.
Always ensure:
- The provider has an official registration in Germany.
- They follow German banking regulations (BaFin license).
- They provide secure login credentials and encrypted communication.
📊 How the Blocked Account Supports Financial Planning
The Blocked Account not only helps in visa approval but also supports your financial planning in Germany.
By receiving a fixed amount every month, you can easily:
- Plan your monthly budget for rent, food, and travel.
- Avoid overspending early in the year.
- Manage unexpected expenses by saving leftover funds.
It also helps parents or sponsors monitor and manage financial support in a controlled manner.
🧾 Refund and Cancellation Policy
If your visa application is rejected or you cancel your plans to travel, you can request a refund of your deposited amount.
The process usually involves:
- Submitting your visa rejection letter or cancellation proof.
- Providing your passport copy and refund bank account details.
- Waiting for verification and processing, which takes 2–4 weeks.
Your provider will then return the money (minus service fees) to the same account from which it was originally transferred.
🧠 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I use my Blocked Account to pay rent directly?
No, your rent will be paid from your local German bank account after the monthly transfer from your Blocked Account.
Q2. What if I change my university after arriving in Germany?
No issue. The Blocked Account remains valid as long as your visa status doesn’t change.
Q3. Can parents or relatives deposit the money on my behalf?
Yes, they can, but make sure to mention your full name and application ID in the transfer note.
Q4. What if my Blocked Account balance runs out?
You’ll need to top it up for the next period or show additional financial proof for visa extension.
Q5. Is the Blocked Account the same as a normal German bank account?
No, it’s a special account designed to control and secure your funds for visa purposes.
🌍 Final Thoughts
Opening a Blocked Account is one of the most important steps in your journey to study or train in Germany. It not only ensures your visa approval but also helps you manage your finances responsibly during your stay.
While the process might seem detailed, following the correct steps and choosing a reliable provider can make it quick, smooth, and stress-free.
Always remember to:
- Start early
- Verify your provider
- Keep all documents ready
- Follow embassy guidelines
With careful planning, your Blocked Account will serve as a secure foundation for your new life in Germany — giving you financial stability, peace of mind, and the freedom to focus on your education or training.
