Blocked Account Germany 2026Complete Guide for Students
A blocked account (Sperrkonto) is the proof of financing for your German student visa. As of June 2026 you need 11,904 EUR for one year (992 EUR per month) – derived from the maximum BAföG rate. Here is exactly how much, how to open one, and what to watch out for.
Key Takeaways
- 2026 student amount: 11,904 EUR/year (992 EUR/month), tied to the maximum BAföG rate (Section 13 BAföG).
- You open the account online before arrival through an authorized provider (e.g. Expatrio, Fintiba).
- After arrival the money is released monthly – for that you need a German current account.
- Language-course and Chancenkarte visas require a higher amount – check your visa type.
meinetarife24 Editorial Team
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2026 Required Amount: 11,904 EUR
As of June 2026, the German authorities require 992 EUR per month (11,904 EUR/year) for a non-EU student visa. The figure is based on the maximum BAföG rate and can rise yearly. Always verify the current requirements with your responsible German mission abroad before transferring the money.
What is a Blocked Account?
A Sperrkonto proves to the German authorities that you have enough money to live in Germany
Visa Requirement
Required for non-EU students applying for a German student visa. The mission abroad needs proof of financial means.
Monthly Release
Money is released monthly (currently 992 EUR) so you have a steady budget throughout the year.
Authorized Providers
Only specific banks and fintechs offer blocked accounts. The Federal Foreign Office recommends no provider – you choose freely and compare yourself.
Documentation
You'll receive a confirmation letter (Sperrbestaetigung) to present at your visa interview. It proves your financial capability.
Online Opening
Open your account online from your home country. No need to be physically in Germany to set it up.
Activation in Germany
After arriving and registering (Anmeldung), you activate the monthly release to your German current account.
Key German Terms
Understanding these terms will help you through the process
Step-by-Step: How to Open Your Blocked Account
Choose a Provider
Compare authorized banks and fintech providers such as Expatrio or Fintiba. Look at opening and service fees, transfer times, and customer reviews.
Apply Online
Submit your application with passport, admission letter, and home address proof. Verification usually takes 1-5 days.
Transfer Funds
Wire the required amount (11,904 EUR) plus any fees from your home country. Use SEPA or an international wire transfer.
Receive Confirmation
Get your Sperrkonto confirmation letter (Sperrbestaetigung). Use this for your visa application at the mission abroad.
Activate in Germany
After arrival and Anmeldung, activate the monthly release. Funds are transferred to your regular German account.
Compare German Bank Accounts
You'll also need a regular German current account to receive the monthly releases. Compare free accounts here.
Need extra funding as a student? See our student loan without income guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a blocked account (Sperrkonto)?
A special bank account that proves you have funds to cover living expenses in Germany. The money is blocked and released monthly in fixed amounts once you arrive.
How much money do I need in 2026?
For a student visa you need at least 11,904 EUR per year (992 EUR per month) as of June 2026. The figure is tied to the maximum BAföG rate (Section 13 BAföG) and can be adjusted yearly. A language-course or Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card) visa requires a higher amount.
How do I open a blocked account?
You open it online through an authorized provider before arriving in Germany. You need a valid passport, your university admission letter (Zulassungsbescheid), and proof of address in your home country.
How long does it take?
Account creation usually takes 1-5 business days online. Including the international transfer of your deposit, plan for 2-3 weeks in total, ideally well before your visa appointment.
Sources & Methodology
How we research: we verify the stated amounts against official Tier-1 data sources and show the effective date transparently. The blocked-account amount is tied to the maximum BAföG rate (Section 13 BAföG) and can be adjusted yearly.
Advertising notice (Werbehinweis): We work with affiliate partners including Tarifcheck and may receive a commission (Provision). The comparison is free and non-binding for you. Last updated: June 20, 2026. This is not financial or legal advice. Always verify current requirements with your responsible German mission abroad.
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