Blocked Account in Germany: Amount Required for a Student Visa in 2026
Find your route
3 quick steps
A blocked account, or Sperrkonto, is required by many international students to prove they have sufficient financial resources when applying for a national D visa and subsequently when applying for a residence permit in Germany. In 2026, the guideline for most applicants remains 11,904 euros per year—that is, 992 euros per month—unless a specific embassy or immigration office requests a different calculation.
What Is a Blocked Account?
A Sperrkonto is an account into which a sum intended to cover living expenses in Germany is deposited in advance. The money is not freely accessible: after entering the country, students typically have access only to a monthly allowance. This allows German authorities to verify that the applicant has sufficient basic funding for the duration of their studies or preparatory period.
A blocked account is most often used by applicants from countries outside the EU and the EEA when submitting documents for:
- a student visa for studying at a university;
- a student visa or preparation for university admission;
- Studienkolleg or preparatory courses, if the agency requires financial proof;
- Renewal of a student residence permit in Germany.
How much money is required?
According to Study in Germany/DAAD, as of January 1, 2025, the estimated annual requirement for a blocked account when applying for a visa is 11,904 euros. This amount corresponds to 992 euros per month.
| Period | Monthly Limit | Amount for 12 Months |
|---|---|---|
| Rule effective January 1, 2025 | 992 euros | 11,904 euros |
If the visa is not issued for a full year, the agency may calculate the amount proportionally based on the length of stay. In practice, however, embassies and the Ausländerbehörde often require proof of funding specifically for the full academic year; therefore, before transferring funds, you should verify the requirements on the website of the German diplomatic mission in your country and in the letter from the agency.
How the Sperrkonto Works After Entry
Typically, the process goes like this:
- You choose a bank or online provider that offers blocked accounts for foreigners.
- Complete the identity verification process and receive your account details.
- Transfer the required amount and pay the provider’s fees.
- Obtain confirmation for your visa application package.
- After arriving in Germany, activate your benefits and open a regular checking account, if required by your service provider.
It’s important to keep deadlines in mind: applications and international money transfers may take longer before the start of the semester. Don’t wait until the last minute to open an account, especially if the money is being transferred from a country with currency or sanctions restrictions.
Where to Open a Blocked Account
You can open a Sperrkonto through various banks and specialized services. Well-known options include Fintiba, Coracle, Expatrio, as well as certain German banks, including Sparkasse in some cities. Terms and conditions vary: fees, verification times, rules for minors, requirements for a university invitation letter, and the account activation process should be checked directly with your chosen provider.
Useful links without referral parameters:
The rules are particularly strict for minor applicants: some providers require parental involvement, additional identification, or simply do not open such accounts at all. Before paying the fee, it is advisable to confirm in writing whether the service is suitable for the applicant’s age, citizenship, and visa type.
Can a blocked account be replaced?
A blocked account is not the only way to prove financial means, but it is one of the most straightforward options for the visa department. As alternatives, authorities may consider:
- an official financial commitment from a person with permanent residence in Germany, i.e., a Verpflichtungserklärung;
- documents proving the parents’ income and financial resources;
- a bank guarantee;
- a scholarship from a recognized organization;
- a paid dual-track program, provided that the income is documented to meet the agency’s requirements.
The specific requirements must be confirmed with the German embassy or the Ausländerbehörde. A student’s part-time job alone does not always serve as proof of financial means, especially for an initial visa. For a residence permit renewal, it may be taken into account only if the income is sufficient, regular, and officially verified, but the final decision rests with the authorities.
What to Check Before Applying
Before transferring money, check these four things:
- the current amount on the website of the German mission or Study in Germany;
- whether the embassy accepts the selected provider;
- How long does it take to open and verify an account?
- What fees and refund policies apply if the visa is denied or your plans change?
Check separately to see if you need an amount greater than 11,904 euros. This may be necessary if the program lasts longer than a year, if the agency takes additional expenses into account, or if the rules change by the time you submit your application.
Common Mistakes
The riskiest mistake is to rely on the old amount of 11,208 euros from the 2024 materials. In 2026, this amount cannot be considered the current standard for annual verification.
The second mistake is to transfer money to the service provider before checking the requirements that apply to your specific situation. For example, the rules may differ for minors, applicants without a final Zulassung, or students in preparatory programs.
The third mistake is assuming that a blocked account is automatically required for the entire duration of your studies. Typically, it is required for the first year or for the period specified by the authorities. When renewing your residence permit, financial proof will be required again, but the format may differ if the Ausländerbehörde accepts alternative documents.
