If you plan to migrate to Germany either for work or studies, one of the essential requirements you’ll need to meet is the opening of a German blocked account. Like many other countries, all visa applicants are obliged to provide supporting documents as proof of funds for the duration of their stay. Embassies of many countries ask for bank statements and six months of payslips, but Germans simply use a different approach. You are requested to transfer a fixed sum into a special account called a Sperrkonto (block account), and the funds are released in monthly portions after arrival. This is a mandatory step for most non-EU nationals applying for a visa or permit. This is used as proof that you can support yourself during your stay. But the exact amount and setup process vary depending on your visa type.
Here’s everything you need to know.
What Is a German Blocked Account?
A German blocked account (Sperrkonto) is a special bank account required by German authorities to prove that you have enough funds to live in Germany. The money is “blocked” until you arrive, and a fixed amount is sent to your account each month until your funds are exhausted. Upon arrival, you’ll need to register with the Burgeramt(city registration) and open a current bank account to activate monthly payouts.
The required amount for a blocked account depends on your visa category (see below).
How Much Money Do You Need in a Blocked Account?
The total deposit depends on the purpose of your stay and it is mostly required for the national visa D category. People who apply for short-stay visas aren’t required to open a blocked account. Below are the visa categories where a German Blocked Account is required:
| Visa Type | Required Amount (2025) | Monthly Payout limit |
|---|---|---|
| Student Visa | 11,904 EUR (for 12 months) | 992 EUR per month |
| Job seeker Visa | 6,546 EUR (for 6 months) | 1,091 EUR per month |
| Opportunity Card | 13,092 EUR (for 12 months) | 1,091 EUR per month |
These amounts can change yearly, so always confirm the current BAföG rate on the official embassy or block account provider website before making a transfer. The BAföG rate is the national standard that defines the absolute minimum of expenses that a student needs to cover for a comfortable living in Germany.
Types of German Blocked Accounts
Blocked accounts are primarily categorized into two types in Germany: Traditional Bank Blocked Accounts and Digital Blocked Account Providers.
Traditional Bank Blocked Accounts are blocked accounts opened with traditional German banks such as Deutsche Bank, Postbank or certain Sparkassen. This option is the preferred option when you are already in Germany. Due to bureaucratic processes, it can be very difficult to open one from abroad.
Digital Blocked Account Providers, on the other hand, are online blocked account providers that partner with certain German banks and health insurance companies to offer a consolidated online package for foreign students. They are embassy-approved and have quicker online support and also offer guides on what to do within the first months of your stay in Germany as a student or job seeker.
Traditional Bank Blocked Accounts vs Digital Blocked Account Providers
| Traditional Bank Blocked Account | Digital Blocked Account Providers |
|---|---|
| Mostly offered by large German Banks | Partnered with German banks to offer the service online |
| Often requires in-person verification | Fully online setup with providers approved by the German Federal Foreign Office |
| Slower to open and less convenient from abroad. | Faster, cheaper, and accepted by all German embassies. |
| Ideal for internationals residing in Germany. | Ideal for international students and job seekers outside Germany. |
| Not an exclusive consolidated service | The service provider offers a consolidated service offering. E.g (blocked account + health & travel Insurance + German bank account) |
How to Open a German Blocked Account
Opening a blocked account is straightforward if you follow the right steps:
- Choose a provider: Select an embassy-approved provider like Fintiba, Expatrio, or Coracle.
- Complete your online application: Upload your passport and admission letter or job-seeking documents.
- Transfer the required amount: According to your visa category (see table above).
- Receive your confirmation letter: This is required for your visa appointment.
- Activate the account upon arrival: Verify your address in Germany to begin monthly withdrawals.
NB: Processing time is typically 1–3 business days after funds are received.
List of Approved Blocked Account Providers
- Fintiba – Partnered with Sutor Bank, widely accepted by German embassies.
- Expatrio – Offers combined packages with insurance and health coverage.
- Coracle – Known for fast approvals and low service fees.
- ICICI Bank Germany – Popular for applicants from India.
- Deutsche Bank – Traditional option, slower setup.
Each provider has different fees and requirements, so compare before choosing.
How terratalent Guides You Through Our Partnership with Fintiba
At terratalent, we’ve partnered directly with Fintiba, one of Germany’s most trusted blocked account providers. This partnership allows us to guide international talents through the process quickly and securely.
Through our Study Gateway, Opportunity Card and Career Launchpad programs, we:
- Help you choose the correct blocked account type for your visa (student, Opportunity Card, or job seeker).
- Guide you through Fintiba’s online application and verification process.
- Ensure the correct amount is transferred based on your visa category.
- Provide full support in preparing your blocked account confirmation for your visa application.
- Assist with account activation and monthly withdrawal setup after arrival.
With terratalent and Fintiba, you can open your German blocked account in just a few days — with full confidence that your visa documents meet embassy standards.
Why It Matters
Without a valid blocked account confirmation, your visa application could be delayed or denied. It is one of the essential documents that demonstrate your financial independence and your ability to responsibly live in Germany.
terratalent: Your Partner in the Journey
Whether you’re applying for a student visa, Opportunity Card, or job seeker visa, terratalent supports you every step of the way. From opening your German blocked account through our partnership with Fintiba to preparing your visa documentation, we make your transition to Germany efficient and stress-free.
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