International students need a blocked bank account in Germany to demonstrate the required financial resources to bear the cost of living. The Blocked Bank Account (Sperrkonto) is essential for a German student visa.
The term” blocked” means a student can only withdraw a specific amount each month which ensures the funds last throughout the year. As of 2024, a student in Germany must deposit 11,904 euros in a blocked account for one year of study. The specific amount of 992 euros every month is used to be paid out for living expenses such as accommodation, food, transport, and other costs This monthly amount is transferred to a normal German bank account.
Opening a Blocked Bank account
Choosing a service provider: You can choose from a variety of service providers to open a blocked account. Some of these include Expatrio, Fintiba, Deutsche Bank, etc.
Apply: In this step, you need to submit an application that includes your details, a copy of your passport, and a letter from the German university where you have applied.
Transfer the required funds: In this, you have to transfer the funds necessary to the blocked account.
Confirmation letter: You will receive a confirmation letter, once the funds are successfully deposited.
Apply for your student visa: Your blocked account confirmation letter is really important for your student visa. Submit this along with your other required documents such as your university admission letter, health insurance, and passport to the German embassy.
Some alternatives to a blocked account
Scholarships: In case you have a scholarship, this confirmation can be used as proof of your financial resources. The scholarship amount can be deducted from the specific blocked account and if it is exceeded, you do not need to make a blocked account.
Letter of obligation: In this case, a third party (e.g., a family member or relative) declares to be financially responsible for you and covers your expenses for the period of your study in Germany. A formal declaration at a German immigration office is required to be submitted by that person.
Can more than 992 euros withdrawn per month?
No, we cannot withdraw more than 992 euros per month. These funds are required to cover the expenses for the entire year. If you have more money required, then you have to rely on other sources like additional financial support or you can join a part-time job. However, 992 euros per month is enough for living expenses in most of the universities in the cities across the country.
At IIE Education we can provide valuable assistance to international students to guide them about opening blocked bank accounts for their studies in Germany. We provide easy-to-understand resources explaining how to open a blocked bank account and provide guidance about the required documents needed in this process.
Documentation assistance
We provide information about required documents such as admission letters, passports, and other documents required for the process. We also assist in helping you fill out blocked bank account applications accurately to avoid any delays.