The term of Blocked Account or Sperrkonto is something you have heard when planning to study in Germany. The requirement is confusing to many international students initially. Blocked account merely is a special form of bank account that will help prove that you will have enough money to support you in the life in Germany. It is called blocked, as you cannot get it all at once–just a limited amount every month is put in your reach.
So why is this important?
When you send an application to the immigration office to be given a German student visa, the immigration office would like to know that you can afford your living expenses without having to take part-time jobs at a particular time. The amount of the EUR11,208 per year is approximated up to 2025 and it drops to an estimated EUR934 per month. This is money that will be used to cover things like rent, food, transport, health insurance and study materials. Without a blocked account, there are high chances that your visa will be rejected.
This is one of the initial activities that are undertaken after you have received your admission letter, opening a blocked account. The process can be described as daunting, but it is easy once you know what you want to do. The different banks and financial providers in Germany (or even in other countries) now allow the student to open blocked accounts online, even prior to arrival. Some providers also combine the account with the health insurance packages and this also can assist in the visa process.
In short, the blocked account is not just a ritual- it is your asset base to live and study in Germany. We will have a look at why it is needed and how to open one easily.
Why do International Students Need a Blocked Account?
Visa Requirement
The German government will only issue a student a visa based on demonstration of financial stability. The blocked account is a legit evidencing factor that you will be able to sustain yourself whilst studying.
Living Expenses in Germany
The average expenditure of the students on cost of living varies between EUR800-EUR1,100 per month depending on the city. The larger cities like Munich and Frankfurt are more expensive and the small towns are less expensive. This blocked account will imply that you can pay such costs despite where you are.
Security for Students and Authorities
The blocked account provides the student with a monthly allowance to use in budgeting to the student. To the authorities, it guarantees them that the students will not be exposed to lack of money or state dependency.
How much cash in blocked account?
The fixed value is a little adjusted yearly based on the cost of living. This is equal to EUR11,208/year or EUR934/month by 2025. This is the minimum deposit that you must deposit before visa application. You will then need to specify that amount per year in case your program is more.
Other learners would rather pay a bit more in form of more insurance, but the official minimum should be always considered.
Opening a blocked account in Germany.
There are two broad methods of opening the blocked account, and these two methods are assisted by the German banks and special international providers.
Option 1: Traditional German Banks
In Germany, it has those banks like Deutsche Bank that open blocked accounts to international students. The process is however cumbersome and involves postage of the documents and even visiting a German consulate. This is why the number of students who prefer more recent providers is high.
Option 2: Specialized Providers
International students prefer such companies as Intaba, Expatriate and Coracle. These services are approved by the German authorities and on most occasions, you can even open an account fully online by these providers. They also offer packages that include health insurance that render the visa acquisition process easy.
Step-by-Step Process
Choose a provider that fits you.
Apply online with your personal details and admission letter.
Deposit the necessary sum (e.g., EUR11,208) in the account.
Use this guarantee as a source of finances in your application to receive your visa.
What does one do with a blocked account.
Preparate in advance: Exchange money at least several weeks before your visa meeting. The international may transfer slowly.
Keep track of your spending: It should be kept in mind that you will only pay EUR934 monthly. Budget carefully for rent, food, insurance, and travel.
Save more: The blocked account suffices to be able to cover the basic needs, but it is wise to have a small emergency fund.
Compare providers: Prices and services are different, and you should compare the details and form your opinion. Other providers charge the set up and monthly payments but other can offer a cheaper health insurance package.
Final Thoughts
Blocked account is not only a visa condition in Germany, but a financial net during studying abroad. It assures the authorities that you are prepared and gives one a feeling of security that you would be able to pay your bills when and as they fall monthly.
With a classic German bank or new web-based system, you need to make sure you are started early, shop around and familiar with the rules. Once you have an account, you will be a step closer to being able to begin your student life in Germany with no worries.
