Why Blocked account is required for internationals to study in Germany

If you're planning tostudy in Germany as an international student, you've probably already heard of the blocked account, also known as the Sperrkonto in German.

This financial requirement is not merely a recommendation: it is a mandatory step in the student visa application process. German authorities use the blocked account to ensure that international students have sufficient resources to cover their living expenses during their stay.

In this article, we explain why the blocked account is essential, how it works, and what you need to know before opening one. Whether you're from India, Nigeria, or another non-EU country, understanding this requirement is crucial for a successful visa application and a smooth transition to Germany.

Proof of Financial Resources for Your German Student Visa

To study in Germany, international students must demonstrate that they have sufficient financial resources to live in the country without relying on employment or public assistance.

When applying for your German student visa or residence permit, you must prove that you can finance at least one year of study.

For 2025, the minimum required amount is €11,208, or €934 per month. This sum must be deposited into a blocked account (Sperrkonto), in accordance with German authorities' requirements.

Limited access ensuring monthly income

The term "blocked" refers to the fact that the money is not fully available as soon as you arrive.

Instead, the funds are released gradually, at a rate of approximately €934 per month in 2025, to cover your living expenses.

This system offers dual protection:

For students

• It encourages responsible budget management.
• It prevents the entire sum from being spent too quickly.

For the German authorities

It ensures that international students are financially independent and that they will not rely on public assistance.

Thanks to these regular payments, the blocked account helps provide a more stable and secure student experience in Germany.

An essential requirement for the visa and residence permit

The blocked account is mandatory at two key stages of your study plan:

• when applying for a student visa at the German consulate or embassy;
• when applying for a residence permit at the foreigners' office (Ausländerbehörde) after your arrival in Germany.

Without proof of sufficient funds, your visa or residence permit application will be rejected.

It is therefore essential to anticipate this step to avoid any delays in your departure or university enrollment.

Alternatives to the blocked account remain limited

Even though the blocked account is the most common solution, a few alternatives exist.

Some individuals can provide:

• a declaration of commitment (Verpflichtungserklärung) issued by a person legally residing in Germany;
• a scholarship fully covering the expenses of the stay.

However, these solutions are subject to strict conditions and remain much rarer.

For the majority of international students, the blocked account remains the simplest and most widely accepted solution.

The Studely Blocked Account: A Simple and Secure Solution

Are you looking for a reliable solution to meet German visa requirements?

The Studely Blocked Account is specifically designed for international students.

Benefits of the Studely Blocked Account

• 100% online opening from your home country.
• Account opened within 24 to 48 hours.
• Solution compliant with German student visa and residence permit requirements.
• Opportunity to benefit from additional services such as:
  • health insurance;
  • housing assistance;
  • administrative assistance.

Thousands of students already trust Studely to calmly prepare for their relocation to Germany.

In summary

The blocked account is essential because:

• it proves your financial solvency;
• it is a legal requirement for obtaining a visa and residence permit;
• it guarantees a minimum monthly income for the entire duration of your studies;
• it helps prevent financial difficulties once you're settled in Germany.

Understanding how the blocked account works from the start of your project will allow you to prepare for your departure to Germany with complete peace of mind.