The Blocked Account (Sperrkonto) Requirement for German Visas
An explanation of the mandatory blocked account (Sperrkonto) required for German student visas, detailing the minimum annual amount (€11,208), how the funds are released monthly, and a comparison of popular providers like Fintiba, Coracle, and Expatrio.
Blocked Account / Sperrkonto
The Blocked Account (Sperrkonto) is a mandatory type of bank account for many international students applying for or extending a German visa (residence permit). Its purpose is to prove that the student has sufficient funds to cover their living expenses in Germany.
How the Sperrkonto Works
The total required amount of money is deposited into the blocked account, where it is held and is not directly accessible to the student.
- After you obtain your visa and successfully register a standard EU bank account (with an IBAN), a fixed part of the total money will be transferred monthly to your accessible account.
Required Amount
- As of August 14, 2023, the required amount is €934 per month, totaling €11,208 per year.
Visa Implications
- New Visa Application: If you are applying for a new student visa (i.e., not an extension), you are generally required to have the full annual amount (€11,208) in your Sperrkonto.
- Visa/Residence Permit Extension: While the full amount is ideal, the total balance affects the duration for which your extended visa will be valid.
- Alternative Proof (Rare): Some cities (Ausländerbehörden) may accept alternative proof of funds, such as a formal Verpflichtungserklärung (Declaration of Commitment) or proof of regular, high-value transfers from parents over the last three months, though a Sperrkonto is the standard and most reliable method.
Popular Sperrkonto Providers
Several private providers offer blocked account services, each with slightly different fees and features.
| Provider | Key Features | Cost/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fintiba | Generally considered one of the easiest and most reliable to open. Offers packages that include health insurance. | Higher initial and monthly fees. |
| Coracle | One of the cheapest options with no monthly fees. | Their insurance may only be available for enrolled university students (not Studienkolleg). They do not have a dedicated mobile app. |
| Expatrio | Similar to Fintiba. Offers integrated health insurance options. | Opening fee is cheaper than Fintiba, but the monthly fee is slightly higher. |
These are the most commonly used brands. Choosing the simplest option, like Fintiba, is often preferred by new applicants for ease of processing.
Published on: 10/3/2025