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Expat guide

Blocked Account (Sperrkonto) in Germany: Complete Guide for Expats

A blocked account (Sperrkonto) proves you can support yourself during your German visa application — here's how to open one.

7 min read·Verified & sourced

Overview

A Sperrkonto (blocked account) is a special bank account that holds a minimum balance to prove you can support yourself while living in Germany. It is required for most student visas, language course visas, and job-seeker visas — not for work visas with an employment contract.

The account "blocks" your money: you deposit the full required amount upfront, and the bank releases a fixed monthly sum (currently €992/month) to a linked Girokonto for living expenses. The rest stays locked until you no longer need the account.

This is separate from a daily bank account. Do not confuse a Sperrkonto with a regular Girokonto — they serve different purposes.

Who needs this

If you are applying for a visa from outside Germany and your embassy asks for proof of financial means (Finanzierungsnachweis), you almost certainly need a Sperrkonto.

Documents you need

You can open a blocked account before arriving in Germany — in fact, you must, because you need the confirmation letter for your visa application.

Step-by-step process

Online provider (Expatrio or Fintiba — recommended for students)

1. Choose a provider — Expatrio and Fintiba are the most popular with international students. Both offer English support and fast online setup.
2. Create an account on the provider's website and upload your passport and admission letter.
3. Receive your account details (IBAN) for the transfer.
4. Transfer the full blocked amount (~€11,904 for one year — verify the current amount on your provider's site).
5. Wait for confirmation — once funds arrive, the provider issues your Sperrbescheinigung (blocked account confirmation letter).
6. Submit the confirmation letter with your visa application at the embassy or Ausländerbehörde.
7. After arrival, link a Girokonto to receive monthly disbursements.

Deutsche Bank (traditional option)

1. Visit a Deutsche Bank branch in Germany or apply online if available in your country.
2. Provide passport, admission letter, and proof of address.
3. Transfer the blocked amount — processing takes longer than online providers (1–2 weeks).
4. Receive your Sperrbescheinigung for your visa application.

Open your blocked account at least 2–4 weeks before your visa appointment. International transfers can take several business days to clear.

Costs

Fees change — always check the provider's current pricing before signing up. Some providers offer discounts when bundled with health insurance.

Timeline

1. Choose provider and submit application

   Same day — online in 15–30 minutes

2. Transfer blocked amount

   1–3 business days for international transfer to clear

3. Receive Sperrbescheinigung

   1–5 business days after funds arrive

4. Submit with visa application

   Before embassy or Ausländerbehörde appointment

5. Monthly disbursement to Girokonto

   €992/month released after arrival in Germany

Start the process early. Visa appointments are often booked weeks in advance, and you need the Sperrbescheinigung before you can apply.

Tips and common mistakes

• Open early — do not wait until the week before your visa appointment. Transfers and processing take time.
• Do not confuse Sperrkonto with Girokonto — you need both. The blocked account is for visa proof; the Girokonto is for daily life.
• Verify the current minimum amount — it is updated annually (currently ~€11,904/year or €992/month). Check your provider's site for the latest figure.
• Keep your Sperrbescheinigung safe — you may need to show it again at the Ausländerbehörde after arrival.
• Set up monthly disbursements promptly — after arrival, link your Girokonto so you receive your monthly living allowance.
• Compare providers — setup fees and monthly costs vary. Bundled health insurance packages can save money if you need both.

Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions

?Do I need a blocked account for every visa type?

No. You only need a Sperrkonto if your visa type requires proof of financial resources — typically student visas, language course visas, and job-seeker visas. Work visas with an employment contract and EU citizens do not need one.

?Can I use the blocked account for daily spending?

Only partially. The account releases a fixed monthly amount (currently €992) to a linked Girokonto for living expenses. The rest stays blocked. It is not a replacement for a regular bank account — you still need a Girokonto for salary, rent, and bills.

?Which blocked account provider is best?

Expatrio and Fintiba are the most popular with international students — both offer English support and fast online setup. Deutsche Bank is an option if you prefer a traditional branch bank, but setup takes longer. Compare setup fees, monthly fees, and whether they include health insurance bundles.

?How long does it take to open a blocked account?

Online providers like Expatrio and Fintiba typically take 1–5 business days after you transfer the full amount. Deutsche Bank can take 1–2 weeks. Open your account well before your visa appointment — you need the confirmation letter (Sperrbescheinigung) to apply.

?What happens to the money when my visa ends?

When you leave Germany or no longer need the blocked account, you can close it and withdraw the remaining balance. If you get a work permit and switch to a regular visa, most providers let you close the Sperrkonto once you prove alternative financial means.