A German Blocked Account, or Sperrkonto, is a specific type of bank account set up for international students or individuals applying for a German visa. This account is a requirement set by the German government to ensure that foreign students or job seekers have enough funds to support themselves during their stay in Germany.

How a German Blocked Account Works:

• Purpose: The blocked account is primarily intended to show proof of financial resources. It helps ensure that the account holder can cover living expenses while in Germany, which is crucial for those who don’t have other means of financial support. For most international students, this account is part of the visa application requirements.
• Blocked Funds: When opening a blocked account, a specified amount is deposited and “blocked” or reserved in the account. This money is meant to cover the cost of living for a defined period, typically for one year.
• Monthly Withdrawal Limit: Once in Germany, the account holder can withdraw a fixed amount each month, generally around €934 (as of 2023), or an updated amount based on the cost-of-living adjustments. This monthly limit helps ensure that students have a steady flow of funds available for their living costs.
• Opening Process: The blocked account is usually set up before arriving in Germany, with options to open it from abroad through approved banks or financial services. Many students use providers like Deutsche Bank or specialized services such as Fintiba or Expatrio, which facilitate the setup of blocked accounts for visa purposes.
• Required Amount: The German government sets an annual minimum amount required for these accounts, which is reviewed periodically. This amount covers essential living expenses and ensures that international students and job seekers can manage financially while in Germany.

For international students, this blocked account is a widely accepted way to meet financial proof requirements, but it’s also required for other visa applicants, like job seekers, to fulfill Germany’s financial stipulations for long-term stays.