Germany Blocked Account Explained: 2025 Minimum Amount
Discover everything you need to know about the Germany blocked account, including the 2025 minimum amount, a step-by-step process for setting it up, the fastest providers, and viable alternatives for student visa applicants.
Blocked Account in Germany: Step-by-Step Guide (2025) + Alternatives
Planning to study in Germany? One of the most important requirements for your student visa is opening a Blocked Account (Sperrkonto). This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about blocked accounts in 2025, including step-by-step instructions, provider comparisons, and alternative options.
What is a Blocked Account?
A Blocked Account (Sperrkonto) is a special bank account required by German Embassies and Consulates as proof that international students can financially support themselves during their stay in Germany. For 2025, the German government has set the annual required amount at: ➡ €11,904 per year (€992 per month)
This amount must be deposited into your Blocked Account before your visa appointment. Once you arrive in Germany, you'll receive €992 per month automatically, ensuring you have consistent financial support throughout your studies.
Why is it called "blocked"? The funds are secured and released monthly. You cannot withdraw the entire amount at once. This protects both you and the German government by ensuring financial stability throughout your stay.
Step-by-Step Process to Open a Blocked Account (2025)
Step 1: Choose a Blocked Account Provider (Bank or FinTech)
The first decision you'll make is selecting your blocked account provider. You have two main options: Modern FinTech providers or Traditional Banks. Here are the main approved providers for 2025:
Expatrio
Coracle
Fintiba
Traditional Banks
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
Once you've chosen your provider, you'll need to complete an online application. The process is straightforward and entirely digital with FinTech providers.
Documents you'll need to upload:
Valid passport (information page)
University admission letter (or conditional offer)
Proof of address (if available)
Visa type confirmation (Student Visa – §16b)
Processing time: Instant to 48 hours
Most providers offer a user-friendly dashboard where you can track your application status in real-time. Make sure all documents are clear, readable, and in accepted formats (usually PDF or JPG).
Step 3: Deposit the Required Amount (€11,904)
After your application is approved, your provider will send you deposit confirmation with detailed instructions, including:
Your unique Blocked Account IBAN
SWIFT/BIC code for international transfers
Exact deposit instructions and reference number
Important considerations for Indian students:
Indian banks typically charge ₹2,000–6,000 for international remittance
Transfer time: 24–72 hours (sometimes up to 5 business days)
Always deposit the exact amount or slightly more to account for potential currency fluctuations
Save all transfer receipts and bank confirmations
Step 4: Receive the "Blocked Account Confirmation Letter"
This is the most important document for your visa application. Within 1–3 business days after your deposit is confirmed, your provider will generate your Blocked Account Confirmation Letter.
This official document includes:
Your full name (as per passport)
Blocked amount (€11,904)
Monthly withdrawal limit (€992)
Account number and IBAN
Provider's official stamp and signature
You can upload this document to the VFS portal or bring a printed copy to your visa appointment. Check our Visa Application Guide for more details.
Step 5: Travel to Germany & Activate Your Account
Congratulations! Once you've received your visa and arrived in Germany, you'll need to activate your blocked account to start receiving monthly payments.
Activation process:
Open a regular German bank account (N26, Commerzbank, Sparkasse, Deutsche Bank, etc.)
Log into your blocked account provider's portal
Upload your new German IBAN
The provider will verify and activate monthly transfers
Activation time: 24–72 hours
Starting from the activation date, €992 will be automatically transferred to your German current account every month. This ensures you have consistent financial support for rent, food, transportation, and other living expenses.
Alternatives to Blocked Account (Accepted by Embassies)
While a blocked account is the most common method, German embassies and consulates accept several alternatives for proving financial means. Here are your options:
1. Scholarship Letter: If you've been awarded a scholarship covering ≥ €992/month (such as DAAD, Erasmus, or university-specific scholarships), you do not need a blocked account.
Requirements:
Official scholarship award letter
Clear mention of monthly amount
Duration of scholarship coverage
Issued by a recognized organization
Read our Complete guide to German scholarships.
2. Official Sponsor (Verpflichtungserklärung – VE) : A person already living in Germany (relative, guardian, or sponsor) can sign a financial responsibility bond for you through the local foreigners' office (Ausländerbehörde).
Requirements for the sponsor:
German resident or citizen
Proof of stable income/salary (payslips, tax returns)
Appointment at Bürgeramt or Ausländerbehörde
Financial capacity to support the student
⚠️ Note: This process can take 4–6 weeks and requires the sponsor to have significant financial means. The sponsor becomes legally responsible for your financial well-being during your studies.
3. Fully-Paid Tuition + Proof of Funds: Rare but accepted in some consulates, particularly for special programs:
Required documents:
Paid tuition receipts from the German university
Family bank statements (last 6 months)
Fixed Deposit certificates (at least 6 months old)
Affidavit from parents/guardians
Important: This option is not universally accepted and depends heavily on your local embassy's policies. Always check with your specific consulate before relying on this method.
4. Education Loan (Special Rule) : If you have an education loan covering the full annual amount, some consulates may accept loan documentation as proof of funds.
Required documents:
Loan sanction letter
Disbursement schedule
Bank guarantee letters
Collateral documentation (if applicable)
⚠️ Reality check: Most students with education loans still choose to open a blocked account.
Common Mistakes Students Make (Avoid These!)
❌ Depositing less than €11,904: Even €1 missing = rejected visa application. Currency conversion rates fluctuate, so always deposit slightly more (€11,950–€12,000) to account for any variations.
❌ Using someone else's name in the transfer: If your parent transfers money from their account, the name won't match your blocked account. Solution: Either transfer from your own account or include proper authorization documents from your provider.
❌ Not checking remittance fees: Bank fees, intermediary charges, and currency conversion costs can reduce your deposit amount. Always verify the final amount received by your blocked account provider.
❌ Waiting until the last minute: Visa appointments fill up quickly, and blocked account processing takes time. Best practice: Open your blocked account 3–4 weeks before your VFS appointment to avoid last-minute stress.
❌ Ignoring provider customer support: Some students don't contact their provider when they face issues. Most FinTech providers offer dedicated support use it! Quick resolution can save your visa timeline.
Read more Common Application Mistakes
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I withdraw more than €992 per month from my blocked account?
A: No, the monthly limit is fixed at €992. This is a regulatory requirement to ensure financial stability throughout your stay.
Q: What happens to leftover money if I return to my home country early?
A: You can request a refund of the remaining balance from your blocked account provider. Processing usually takes 2-4 weeks, and some providers may charge a small fee.
Q: Do I need a blocked account for a residence permit extension?
A: Yes, when extending your residence permit, German authorities require continued proof of financial means either a refilled blocked account or other acceptable proof.
Q: Can I use my blocked account for the first semester only?
A: No, you need to maintain proof of funds throughout your studies. Many students refill their blocked account annually or switch to other proof methods like employment contracts or parental support.
Q: Is the €11,904 amount different for different cities?
A: No, the amount is standardized across all of Germany, regardless of whether you're studying in Munich (expensive) or Leipzig (affordable).
Ready to Open Your Blocked Account?
Opening a blocked account is a crucial step in your German study journey, but it doesn't have to be complicated. With the right provider and proper preparation, you can complete the entire process in less than a week.
Need personalized guidance? Our team of study abroad experts can help you navigate every step of the visa process, from blocked accounts to health insurance and beyond.
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Related Articles:
Essential Steps for International Students Applying to German Universities
How to Write an Effective SOP and CV for German University Admissions
Disclaimer: Visa requirements and financial regulations may change. Always verify current requirements with your local German embassy or consulate and check official government websites for the most up-to-date information.