Blocked account in Germany – guide for international students | Germany for Students

If you want to come to Germany as an international student, in many cases you must open a blocked account (Sperrkonto). This account serves as proof that you can finance your living expenses while studying in Germany.

The blocked account is one of the most important requirements for your student visa and often also for enrollment at the university.

In this guide you will learn:

what a blocked account is
how much money you must deposit
how a blocked account works
which providers exist
when you should open it

What is a blocked account?

A blocked account is a special bank account for international students in Germany.

You must deposit a certain amount into this account. The money is then released in fixed monthly amounts so you can cover your living expenses during your studies.

The blocked account is official proof for:

German embassies
immigration authorities
universities

It shows that you have enough money to live in Germany.

How much money must be deposited into the blocked account?

The German government sets a minimum amount each year.

Currently, the required amount is:

11,208 euros per year

This money is paid out monthly:

934 euros per month

This amount is intended to cover typical living costs in Germany, for example:

rent
groceries
transport
study materials

Who needs a blocked account?

A blocked account is usually required for international students who:

come from non-EU countries
apply for a student visa
stay in Germany for more than 90 days

EU students usually do not need a blocked account.

Even if you have a scholarship or can prove other financial support, a blocked account may sometimes not be required.

When should you open a blocked account?

You should open your blocked account only after you have received admission from a university.

Typical sequence:

Apply to universities
Receive admission
Open blocked account
Apply for student visa
Travel to Germany

How does a blocked account work?

The process is usually very straightforward.

Step 1: Choose a provider

Several banks and financial service providers offer blocked accounts for international students.

Well-known providers include, for example:

Fintiba
Expatrio
Deutsche Bank

Providers differ in terms of:

fees
account opening
services offered

Step 2: Open the account online

Most blocked accounts can be opened entirely online.

Typical steps:

register with the provider
identity verification
upload documents

Step 3: Deposit the money

After opening the account, you receive the bank details and transfer the required amount.

The amount is then blocked on your blocked account.

Step 4: Receive the blocking confirmation

Once the money has been received, you get a blocking confirmation.

You need this document for:

your visa application
appointments at the embassy

➡️ Book an appointment for the student visa

Step 5: Monthly payout in Germany

Once you are in Germany and open a local account, your money is released monthly.

You then receive the maximum available amount each month.

What fees does a blocked account have?

Fees depend on the provider.

Typical costs:

account opening: about 50 – 100 euros
monthly fees: about 5 – 10 euros

Compare providers carefully before you decide.

Can I deposit more money into the blocked account?

Yes.

You can voluntarily deposit more than the minimum amount.

Many students do this to:

cover higher living costs
have more financial security

The monthly available amount can then also be higher.

Alternatives to the blocked account

In some cases you can prove your finances in other ways.

Possible alternatives are:

Scholarship

An official scholarship can replace the financial proof.

Declaration of commitment (Verpflichtungserklärung)

A person in Germany can act as your financial guarantor.

Bank statement

In rare cases, another form of financial proof may be accepted.

Requirements vary depending on the embassy.

Common problems with the blocked account

Many students run into similar difficulties.

Bank transfer takes a long time

International transfers can take several days.

Incorrect information

If data is entered incorrectly, opening the account can be delayed.

Opened too late

If you open your blocked account too late, your visa may be delayed.

So allow enough time.

Other important steps before your studies

Besides the blocked account, you need to prepare several other things.

Conclusion

The blocked account is a central part of preparing to study for international students in Germany.

It serves as financial proof and is often required for:

the student visa
the residence permit
enrollment at the university

If you open your blocked account early and submit all documents correctly, you can complete this step without problems.

Plan your studies in Germany

The path to studying includes many steps:

applying to universities
APS certificate (if required)
blocked account
visa
health insurance
enrollment

Germany for Students helps you plan and track all steps in a structured way so you do not miss anything.

Start planning your studies now.

Blocked account in Germany – guide for international students