A blocked account (Sperrkonto) is the most common way international students prove financial resources for a German student visa.
It shows the German authorities that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your studies.
What Is a Blocked Account?
A blocked account is a special type of bank account where:
• A fixed amount of money is deposited
• The total amount is “blocked”
• You can only withdraw a limited monthly amount
It ensures you cannot spend all your money at once.
How Much Money Is Required?
The required amount is defined by German immigration authorities and can change over time.
As of recent regulations, students typically need to prove around:
• Approximately €11,000+ per year
This amount is usually divided into monthly withdrawal limits.
Always verify the current required amount before transferring funds.
How It Works in Practice
1. Open a blocked account with an approved provider
2. Transfer the required annual amount
3. Receive confirmation document
4. Submit confirmation to embassy for visa application
5. After arrival, activate the account
6. Withdraw monthly allowance
You cannot access the full balance at once.
Monthly Withdrawal Limit
The total annual amount is divided into 12 months.
For example:
If €11,000 is deposited, you may withdraw approximately €900–€950 per month.
This is meant to cover:
• Rent
• Food
• Insurance
• Daily expenses
If your actual monthly expenses are higher, you must cover the difference from other funds.
When Do You Need It?
You need a blocked account if:
• You are applying for a student visa
• You do not have a recognized scholarship
• You do not have a formal sponsor declaration accepted by authorities
It is usually required before the visa appointment.
Alternatives to a Blocked Account
In some cases, financial proof may also be provided through:
• Scholarship confirmation
• Formal sponsorship (Verpflichtungserklärung)
• Parental income proof (rarely accepted without formal sponsorship)
However, the blocked account remains the most widely accepted method.
Common Mistakes
Applicants often:
• Transfer the wrong amount
• Open accounts with non-recognized providers
• Delay transfer and miss visa appointment
• Forget activation after arrival
• Assume funds are immediately fully accessible
Always confirm that your provider is recognized for visa purposes.
Activation After Arrival
Once in Germany, you must:
• Open a regular German bank account (if required)
• Link it to your blocked account
• Activate monthly transfers
Without activation, funds may not be released.
Strategic Advice
• Open the account early (before visa appointment)
• Transfer funds well in advance (international transfers take time)
• Budget realistically — the monthly limit may not cover all expenses
The blocked account is a formal requirement — but your real cost of living may be higher.
