Blocked Account Calculator for Germany

A blocked account (Sperrkonto in German) is a special bank account required for all international students and Ausbildung trainees applying for a German visa. You must deposit a specific minimum amount (€11,904 for Winter 2026) before applying for your visa. Once in Germany, you can withdraw a limited amount each month (€992/month) to cover living expenses. This proves to German authorities that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay.

For Winter 2026 intake (starting September 2026 or later), you need exactly €11,904 in your blocked account. This amount is set by the German Federal Foreign Office and is updated annually based on living cost estimates. For Summer 2026 (if applicable), the requirement may differ. The €11,904 covers 12 months of living expenses at €992 per month, which is the government-mandated minimum for financial proof.

You should open your blocked account 3-4 months before your visa appointment. The timeline: Month 1: Research banks and choose provider, Month 2: Submit application and wait for account confirmation (can take 2-4 weeks), Month 3: Transfer funds and wait for confirmation certificate (1-2 weeks), Month 4: Use confirmation certificate for visa application. Starting early is crucial because international bank transfers can take time, and you need the certificate before your visa interview.

Popular blocked account providers include: Fintiba (€149 setup, most popular, fast processing), Deutsche Bank (€150 setup, traditional option), Expatrio (€49 setup, includes additional services), Coracle (digital-first, competitive fees), X-Patrio (student-focused). Each has different fees, processing times, and additional services. Our calculator helps you compare total costs including setup fees, monthly charges, and transfer fees.

Total costs typically include: Setup/Opening Fee: €49-€150 (one-time), Monthly Account Fee: €0-€5.90/month, International Transfer Fee: €10-€50 (varies by your bank), Currency Conversion Fee: 0.5%-3% of transfer amount. Total first-year costs typically range from €100 to €300 depending on the provider. Our calculator shows exact costs for each option so you can choose the most affordable solution.

No, you cannot use a regular savings account from your home country. German visa authorities only accept blocked accounts (Sperrkonto) from specific German banks or authorized international providers. These accounts have special legal status in Germany and are regulated to ensure monthly withdrawal limits. You must use one of the approved providers like Fintiba, Deutsche Bank, Expatrio, or other licensed Sperrkonto services.

Once you arrive in Germany and register your address (Anmeldung), your blocked account is activated for monthly withdrawals. You can withdraw €992 per month automatically. The money is transferred to your regular German bank account (like N26, Sparkasse, or Deutsche Bank). You cannot withdraw the full amount at once - it is strictly limited to 1/12 of the total each month. This ensures you have funds available throughout the year.

If your visa application is rejected, you can request a full refund of your blocked account deposit. The process: Submit visa rejection letter to your blocked account provider, Request account closure and refund, Money is transferred back to your original account within 2-4 weeks, Setup fees are generally non-refundable. Keep all documentation from your visa interview. Most providers have straightforward refund processes for rejected visa cases.

Yes, you still need a blocked account even if you have an Ausbildung contract with a monthly stipend. German visa law requires financial proof for all visa types, regardless of whether you will earn money during training. However, some consulates may reduce the required amount if you can prove guaranteed monthly income from your training contract. Contact your local German consulate to confirm specific requirements for Ausbildung visa applicants.

Yes, you can add more money to your blocked account at any time. This is useful if: Living costs increase, You want extra emergency funds, You extend your stay in Germany beyond the initial period, Your visa is extended for additional training years. Simply make another international transfer to your blocked account number. The monthly withdrawal limit may be adjusted based on the new total balance and remaining months.