Germany Guide
Blocked account for Germany: how much, and how the process works
Almost every German visa route — student, Chancenkarte, language course — asks for proof you can support yourself. For most applicants, that proof is a blocked account. Here's exactly how much you need, how the account works, and when to open one.
What is a blocked account, and who needs one?
A blocked account (Sperrkonto) is a German bank account that exists for one purpose: proving to visa authorities that you can support yourself financially during your first year in Germany. The money sits “blocked” until you arrive, then gets released to you a fixed amount each month — not as a lump sum.
Most applicants need one, including:
- Students on a student visa
- Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card) applicants
- Language course students
- Apprentices and au-pairs
You typically don'tneed one if a scholarship, an employer, or a German resident's formal Declaration of Commitment (Verpflichtungserklärung) already covers your living costs.
How much do you actually need? (2025 figures)
The required amount depends on which visa you're applying for:
- Standard student visa: €11,904 for the year — €992/month
- Chancenkarte: €13,092 for the year — €1,091/month
Some visa categories require an additional amount on top of the standard figure — the exact rules vary and are updated periodically, so confirm the current number for your specific visa type before transferring funds.
How the process works
The typical sequence looks like this:
- Register online with the provider using your passport
- Transfer the required amount into the blocked account
- Receive a confirmation document to submit with your visa application
- After arriving in Germany, open a regular local bank account and complete identity verification (“legitimation”) so the provider can start releasing your monthly funds
Exact legitimation requirements vary by nationality and provider — check this detail with whichever provider you choose before you travel.
When to open it
Most providers recommend opening your blocked account 3–4 weeks before your visa appointment— it's usually one of the last pieces you finalize in your application. In practice, this window often overlaps with when applicants start their German classes, since both sit at the tail end of visa preparation.
Costs, refunds, and choosing a provider
Providers typically charge a one-time setup fee plus a small monthly administration fee — compare these directly, since they vary by provider. Most reputable providers also offer a refund if your visa is rejected, though the required documentation differs, so check the terms before committing funds. The one thing worth confirming above all else: that your chosen provider's confirmation letter is accepted by your specific German embassy or consulate. Fintiba is one established provider accepted by German missions in India, with a fully online setup.
FAQ
Common questions
A blocked account (Sperrkonto) is a special German bank account that proves to the visa authorities you can financially support yourself for your first year in Germany, without needing to work illegally or rely on public funds. The money is 'blocked' — you can't withdraw it all at once, only a fixed monthly amount once you've arrived.
As of 2025, a standard student visa requires €11,904 for the year (€992/month). A Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card) requires more — €13,092 for the year (€1,091/month). Some visa categories require a further increase on top of the standard amount, so always confirm the exact figure for your specific visa type before transferring funds.
Usually not. If you have a scholarship covering your living costs, an employer sponsoring you, or a German resident willing to sign a formal Declaration of Commitment (Verpflichtungserklärung) on your behalf, that can satisfy the financial-proof requirement instead of a blocked account.
Most providers recommend opening it 3-4 weeks before your visa appointment. It's usually one of the last documents you finalize before applying — and in practice, many applicants open it around the same time they start their German classes, since both sit at the end of visa preparation.
After you arrive and complete identity verification ("legitimation" — the exact process depends on your nationality and provider), your blocked account provider releases your funds monthly into a regular German bank account you open locally. You can't withdraw the full amount in one go, even after arrival.
Reputable blocked-account providers offer a refund if your visa application is rejected — but policies differ on required documentation and timing, so check the specific provider's refund terms before you commit funds.
No. A blocked account only exists to prove financial means for your visa and release funds monthly after arrival — it isn't meant for everyday banking. Once you're in Germany, you'll still want to open a standard current account (Girokonto) for salary, rent, and daily spending.
Any provider whose confirmation letter is accepted by your specific German embassy or consulate — this is worth double-checking before you commit, since acceptance can vary. Fintiba is one widely used, established provider that's accepted by German missions in India and offers a fully online setup.
How German Notes helps
Opening your blocked account and starting German classes usually happen together.
Both sit in the same few weeks of visa prep. Live A1–B2 classes, small batches, and a flexible schedule that fits around the rest of your application.
Still not sure, or want to talk through your specific situation? Book a 1:1 call for personalised guidance.