Guide to a Blocked Account (Sperrkonto) in Germany (2026)
A Blocked Account (Sperrkonto) is required for a student visa. For 2026, you must deposit €11,904 (€992/month). It proves you can financially support yourself during your first year in Germany.
If you are planning to study, seek work, or apply for an Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) in Germany, you’ve likely come across the term Sperrkonto.
A blocked account in Germany is a special type of bank account designed for international students and job seekers. It serves as proof to the German authorities that you have sufficient financial resources to sustain yourself during your stay without relying on state funds, which is a mandatory step for the German student visa.
What is a Blocked Account?
A blocked account works exactly as its name suggests: your funds are “blocked.” You deposit a large lump sum of money before arriving in Germany. Once you arrive and activate the account, the bank will only allow you to withdraw a specific maximum amount every month.
This system guarantees the German government that you won’t spend all your money in the first month and become financially stranded.
How much money do I need in 2026?
The financial requirements are tied to the German standard of living (BAföG rate) and are updated regularly to match inflation.
As of recent updates, the mandatory Sperrkonto deposit for 2026 is set at €11,904 for a one-year stay. This translates to a maximum monthly withdrawal limit of €992.
| Fee Type | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Total Deposit | €11,904 | Mandatory for a 1-year visa. |
| Monthly Payout | €992 | The maximum you can withdraw per month. |
| Buffer Fee | ~€100 | Required by providers to cover international transfer fees. Returned to you later. |
| Setup/Maintenance | €0 – €100 | Depends on which provider you choose. |
Always transfer the buffer! If the final amount in the account is even €1 short of €11,904, the German embassy will reject your visa application.
Step-by-Step: How to Open a Blocked Account
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1
Choose a Provider
Select a German Foreign Office-approved provider (e.g., Expatrio, Fintiba). You do not need a German address to do this.
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2
Apply Online
Fill out the registration form and upload your passport. This usually takes less than 10 minutes.
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3
Transfer the Funds
You will receive a German IBAN. Transfer the full €11,904 plus the buffer fee from your home bank. Use services like Wise for better rates.
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4
Get Confirmation & Apply for Visa
Once the funds arrive (3-5 days), you will receive a Blocking Confirmation document (Sperrbestätigung). Take this to your embassy interview.
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5
Activate in Germany
After arriving in Germany, you must open a regular German current account (Girokonto)—such as one of the best bank accounts for expats—and provide its IBAN to your blocked account provider. They will then transfer your €992 allowance to your Girokonto every month.
Top Providers Compared
When choosing a provider, look for “Value Packages” that bundle your Blocked Account with mandatory Health Insurance. Bundling often waives the setup fees.
Do I absolutely need a Blocked Account?
While a blocked account is the most common way to prove financial resources, it is not the only way. You can bypass the blocked account requirement if:
- You receive a recognized scholarship (e.g., DAAD scholarship) that covers at least €992/month.
- A German resident signs a formal obligation letter (Verpflichtungserklärung) acting as your financial sponsor.
For most students and job seekers, however, the blocked account remains the most straightforward and stress-free way to meet the visa requirements.