Germany Blocked Account for Visa Applicants

What’s a Blocked Account and Why Do You Need One for Your German Student Visa?

Imagine arriving in Germany with no proof of financial means: your visa could be denied on the spot. A blocked account (Sperrkonto) is a special bank account that locks away your funds until you arrive, proving to immigration officers that you can cover living costs. For 2024, you must deposit at least €12,030 before your appointment—allowing you to withdraw roughly €992 per month once you’re in Germany.

How it works:

• You choose a provider and pay an opening fee (around €70) plus a monthly maintenance fee.
• You transfer the required funds and receive a confirmation letter.
• You include this letter in your student visa application.

Why German authorities insist on it:

• Guarantees you can afford rent, food, insurance, transportation and unexpected costs.
• Reduces the risk you’ll need public assistance.
• Streamlines the visa process: embassies trust the Sperrkonto system.

Tips to speed things up:

• Start 6–8 weeks before your visa interview.
• Compare processing times (8–14 days on average).
• Keep all transaction receipts until your visa is granted.

With your blocked account secured, you tick off a major visa requirement—and you’re one step closer to beginning your studies in Germany.

How Much Money Should You Deposit in Your Blocked Account for Germany in 2025?

When you apply for your German student visa, the critical step is proving financial stability through a blocked account. You’ll need to deposit €12,030 before your appointment—this isn’t arbitrary. It reflects the monthly minimum of €992 mandated by German authorities, multiplied by 12 months.

Here’s the full calculation:
• Monthly requirement: €992 x 12 = €11,904
• Additional buffer: €126 to meet the €12,030 total

Plan for a one-time setup fee of €70 at account opening. While the visa office won’t ask you to pre-fund it, remember that banks like Studely charge a monthly maintenance fee of €56 (about €672 annually).

To streamline the process:

1. Confirm the exact exchange rate with your home bank.
2. Transfer the full €12,030 to your blocked account at least two weeks before your consulate appointment.
3. Obtain your deposit confirmation letter and submit it with your visa application.

Always double-check the processing time with your chosen bank, as transfers can take up to five business days. Factor in weekends and local holidays to ensure your deposit arrives on time.

With this clear breakdown, you avoid surprises and meet all German requirements. Focus on securing housing and booking your flight for an exciting start in Germany.

Who Needs a Blocked Account?

You need a blocked account if you are:

• A non-EU/EEA student applying for a German student visa
• An applicant for language courses, preparatory programs, or university degrees
• Planning to stay in Germany for more than 90 days

Blocked accounts are also sometimes required for:

• Job-seekers
• Au pairs
• Researchers without guaranteed income

How to Open a Blocked Account (Step by Step)

The blocked account is a non-negotiable part of your visa journey to Germany. It proves you can support yourself and stay legally during your studies.
By choosing a reliable provider like Studely, you make the process smoother, faster, and more secure — with real support before and after your arrival.

Ready to open your blocked account with ease? Start with Studely