Why Blocked account is required for internationals to study in Germany
If you’re planning to study in Germany as an international student, you’ve likely come across the term blocked account (or Sperrkonto in German). This financial requirement isn’t just a recommendation—it’s a mandatory part of the student visa process. The German government uses the blocked account to ensure that incoming students have sufficient funds to cover their living expenses during their stay.
In this article, we explain why the blocked account is required, how it works, and what you need to know before opening one. Whether you’re applying from India, Nigeria, or any other non-EU country, understanding this requirement is key to a successful visa application and a stress-free arrival in Germany.
Proof of Financial Means for Your German Student Visa
To study in Germany, international students must prove they have sufficient financial resources to support themselves—without depending on local employment or public assistance.
As part of the student visa (Visum zu Studienzwecken) or residence permit application, you are required to demonstrate that you can cover your living costs for at least one year.
For 2025, the minimum required amount is €11,208, which equates to €934 per month. This sum must be deposited into a special bank account known as a Blocked Account (Sperrkonto)—a condition set by the German government to ensure financial self-sufficiency during your studies.
Restricted Access Ensures Monthly Support
The term “blocked” refers to the account’s limited accessibility—students cannot withdraw the full amount upfront. Instead, a fixed monthly allowance (currently €934/month in 2025) is released to cover living expenses.
This system offers dual protection:
- For students: It promotes responsible budgeting and helps avoid spending the entire amount too quickly.
- For German authorities: It ensures international students are financially self-sufficient and not dependent on public assistance.
By providing regular, controlled access to funds, the blocked account supports a more stable and secure student experience in Germany.
Required for Visa and Residence Permit
A blocked account is a mandatory requirement at two critical stages of your study journey in Germany:
- When applying for your student visa at the German consulate or embassy in your home country
- When registering for your residence permit at the local immigration office (Ausländerbehörde) after arrival in Germany
Without valid proof of sufficient funds—typically through a blocked account—your visa or residence permit application will be rejected. It’s not optional, and delays in setting it up can seriously impact your travel and enrollment plans.
Alternatives to a Blocked Account Are Limited
While the blocked account is the most common and widely accepted method to prove financial means, a few alternatives do exist. Some students may be eligible to submit:
- A formal sponsorship letter (Verpflichtungserklärung) from a person legally residing in Germany
- An official scholarship award letter confirming full financial coverage
However, these alternatives are often difficult to obtain, subject to strict conditions, and far less common than opening a blocked account. For most international students, especially those applying from outside the EU, the blocked account remains the most reliable and accepted option.
Studely’s Blocked Account: A Smart and Hassle-Free Option
Looking for a reliable way to meet your visa requirements? Studely’s Blocked Account is a fast, secure, and fully visa-compliant solution designed specifically for international students heading to Germany.
Here’s what makes Studely a smart choice:
- Quick online setup from your home country
- Account opened within 24–48 hours
- Meets all German visa and residence permit requirements
- Optional add-ons: health insurance, accommodation support,
Join thousands of students who trust Studely for a smooth start to their academic journey in Germany.
Summary
A Blocked Account is required because:
- It proves your financial solvency
- It’s part of Germany’s legal visa/residence requirements
- It guarantees a minimum monthly living allowance
- It helps prevent financial hardship during your studies