Germany Blocked Account 2026: Amount, How to Open & Best Providers
Everything Indian students need to know about the German blocked account (Sperrkonto) for a student visa in 2026 — the required amount, top providers, and the step-by-step opening process.
▶ Free College Predictor & study-abroad toolsWhat a blocked account is
A blocked account (Sperrkonto) is a special German bank account where you deposit your living funds before applying for a student visa. The money is locked, and you can withdraw only a fixed amount each month after you arrive — proving to the embassy that you can support yourself without working illegally.
How much you need in 2026
The required amount is around EUR 11,904 for one year (about EUR 992 per month). This figure is revised periodically by the German government, so confirm the current amount on the official Auswärtiges Amt (Federal Foreign Office) site before you deposit.
Best providers for Indians
Fintiba and Expatrio are the most popular digital providers because the whole process is online and fast, and both bundle the mandatory health insurance. Coracle and Deutsche Bank are alternatives. Compare the one-time setup fee, monthly service fee, and how quickly they issue the blocking confirmation.
Step-by-step process
1) Pick a provider and complete the online KYC (passport, admission/visa-appointment details). 2) Receive the account details and blocking confirmation. 3) Transfer EUR 11,904 plus fees from India via LRS. 4) Get the final blocking confirmation to attach to your visa file. Budget 1–2 weeks end to end.
After you arrive
Once in Germany, you verify your local address and the account unblocks to a normal current account, releasing roughly EUR 992 per month. You can top it up later if needed. Keep the health-insurance component active — universities require proof of insurance at enrolment.
Study in Germany on a budget
Public German universities charge little or no tuition, so the blocked account is your main upfront cost. Many programs accept English-taught master's with IELTS 6.5; practise free on LandingPrep, and use the free destinations guide to shortlist tuition-free German universities.