Germany is one of the most popular destinations for international students in the world. With tuition-free or very affordable education, a high standard of living, and globally recognized degrees, thousands of students apply to German universities every year.
But before you can enter Germany as a student, one crucial financial requirement must be met: the blocked account (Sperrkonto).
In 2025, the minimum blocked account amount for Germany student visa is a vital figure every international student must understand. This amount is your financial proof that you can cover your living expenses in Germany while studying.
This article will give you a step-by-step roadmap, explaining not only the required amount but also the hidden fees, application process, approved banks, and practical tips for students applying for their German visa in 2025.
What Is a Blocked Account in Germany?
A blocked account (Sperrkonto) is a special type of German bank account created specifically for international students and visa applicants.
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You deposit a fixed amount of money (the required minimum).
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The money is locked and cannot be withdrawn all at once.
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Every month, you receive a fixed portion as living allowance.
Purpose: To guarantee German authorities that you can financially support yourself without relying on government aid or illegal work.
Minimum Blocked Account Amount for Germany in 2025
As of 2025, the minimum blocked account amount for Germany student visa is:
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€11,208 per year (12 months)
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Equivalent to €934 per month allowance
This amount is set by the Federal Foreign Office of Germany (Auswärtiges Amt) and is updated regularly to reflect inflation and cost of living.
Why This Number?
German immigration authorities calculate this based on:
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Average rent for students
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Food and groceries
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Health insurance
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Study materials
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Transportation
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Miscellaneous living costs
Breakdown of Living Costs Covered by the Blocked Account
Here’s how the €934 per month allowance is typically allocated:
| Expense Category | Average Monthly Cost (€) |
|---|---|
| Rent & Housing | 400 – 500 |
| Food & Groceries | 200 – 250 |
| Health Insurance | 120 – 150 |
| Public Transport | 50 – 80 |
| Study Materials & Internet | 50 – 70 |
| Miscellaneous | 50 – 100 |
| Total | 934 |
This structure ensures you can survive comfortably as a student in Germany.
Eligibility & Requirements for Students
Not everyone is required to open a blocked account. Here’s who needs it:
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Non-EU/EEA students applying for a German student visa.
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Students applying for a language course visa.
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Students joining preparatory college (Studienkolleg).
Documents Required
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Valid passport
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Admission letter from a German university
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Proof of financial means (blocked account deposit confirmation)
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Health insurance (mandatory)
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Completed visa application form
Application Process: How to Open a Blocked Account (Step-by-Step)
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Choose a Provider – Fintiba, Expatrio, Coracle, or a German bank.
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Register Online – Fill in your personal and academic details.
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Upload Documents – Passport, admission letter, and proof of residence.
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Deposit the Required Amount – At least €11,208 + provider fees.
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Receive Confirmation Letter – This is your proof for the German embassy.
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Apply for Student Visa – Submit confirmation during your visa interview.
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Access Monthly Allowance in Germany – Once you arrive, you open a local current account linked to your blocked account.
Verification, Fees, and Charges in 2025
Apart from the blocked account deposit, you must pay:
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Setup Fees – €49 to €150 depending on provider.
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Monthly Service Fees – Around €5 to €10 deducted from your allowance.
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International Transfer Charges – Vary depending on your home country.
Example:
If you choose Fintiba in 2025:
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Setup Fee: €89
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Monthly Fee: €4.90
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Total Extra Cost: Around €150 per year
Top Providers: Fintiba vs Expatrio vs Coracle (2025 Comparison)
| Feature | Fintiba | Expatrio | Coracle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Setup Fee | €89 | €49 | €99 |
| Monthly Fee | €4.90 | €5 | €0 |
| Processing Time | 24–48 hours | 24–48 hours | 2–5 days |
| Health Insurance Bundles | Yes | Yes | No |
| Acceptance by Embassies | 100% | 100% | 100% |
| Customer Support | 24/7 App | Email + Chat | Email Only |
Legal Relevance for Visa and Residence Permit
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Visa Stage: You cannot apply for a German student visa without proof of a blocked account deposit.
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Residence Permit Stage: Even after arriving in Germany, the immigration office will check if you maintain enough funds.
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Renewal: Each year, you must show proof of sufficient funds when extending your residence permit.
Mistakes to Avoid When Funding Your Blocked Account
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Depositing less than the required amount (€11,208).
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Ignoring provider fees (your balance may fall below the requirement).
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Choosing unrecognized providers not accepted by German embassies.
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Transferring money too late (delays can affect visa approval).
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Forgetting that funds are released monthly, not all at once.
Summary Comparison Table: Blocked Account 2025
| Aspect | Details (2025) |
|---|---|
| Minimum Required Amount | €11,208 per year (€934/month) |
| Eligible Applicants | Non-EU/EEA students |
| Providers | Fintiba, Expatrio, Coracle |
| Average Setup Fee | €49 – €150 |
| Monthly Service Fee | €0 – €10 |
| Processing Time | 1–5 business days |
| Importance for Visa | Mandatory financial proof |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the minimum blocked account amount for Germany student visa 2025?
The minimum required is €11,208 per year or €934 per month.
2. Who needs a blocked account for Germany?
Non-EU/EEA international students applying for a student visa or language course visa.
3. Can I deposit more than the minimum amount?
Yes, you can deposit more, but it won’t speed up visa approval. It only increases your monthly allowance.
4. What happens if I deposit less than €11,208?
Your visa application will be rejected because you do not meet financial proof requirements.
5. Which is the best blocked account provider in 2025?
Fintiba and Expatrio are the most popular, while Coracle offers a no-monthly-fee option.
6. Do provider fees count towards the minimum amount?
No. You must deposit €11,208 excluding provider setup and monthly fees.
7. Can I withdraw all my money at once in Germany?
No. You will only receive around €934 per month as living allowance.
8. Is the blocked account refundable if my visa is rejected?
Yes. Providers refund your money (minus fees) if your visa is denied.
9. Do I need a blocked account if I have a scholarship?
Not always. If your scholarship covers all living expenses, you may be exempt.
10. Is the blocked account amount likely to increase in 2026?
Yes, the amount is reviewed annually and may increase due to inflation.
Conclusion: Secure Your Future in Germany with the Right Blocked Account
Opening a blocked account in Germany is not just a visa requirement; it is your first step toward financial security as an international student.
In 2025, the minimum blocked account amount for Germany student visa is €11,208, which ensures you can live, study, and succeed in Germany without financial stress.
By choosing the right provider, planning ahead, and avoiding common mistakes, you will ensure a smooth visa approval and a confident start to your academic journey.
If Germany is your dream study destination, start today by preparing your blocked account — your gateway to studying, living, and thriving in one of the best education systems in the world.