🇩🇪 Blocked Account Refunds After Visa Rejection – What Happens?

If you're planning to study in Germany, opening a Blocked Account (Sperrkonto) is one of the first big steps. It proves you have enough money to support yourself during your stay—currently about €11,208 for one year (2025).

But what happens if your student visa is rejected?

Do you lose all that money?

How do you get it back?

Let’s break down what happens after a German visa rejection, and how you can safely get a blocked account refund.

🧾 First, What is a Blocked Account?

A Blocked Account is a special German bank account where international students deposit a minimum balance to prove financial self-sufficiency. The money is “blocked” until you arrive in Germany and is released monthly (e.g., €934/month).

It’s mandatory for:

• Student visa applicants
• Language students
• Certain job-seekers

❌ If Your Visa is Rejected – Don’t Panic!

✅ You can get your blocked account money back.

But you must follow the correct refund process, and it varies slightly depending on which bank or provider you used.

🔄 General Refund Process (Step-by-Step)

1. Receive the Official Visa Rejection Letter

• You’ll get this from the German Embassy/Consulate
• This document is essential to request a refund from your blocked account provider

2. Contact Your Blocked Account Provider

Each provider has their own process. You’ll usually need to submit:

• Refund request form (available on their website)
• Visa rejection letter (PDF/scan)
• Passport copy
• Bank details in India (or wherever you want the money refunded)
• Refund declaration (confirming you won’t use the account for travel anymore)

3. Wait for Processing

• Refunds typically take 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the provider and documentation
• Processing fees (if any) will be deducted
• Some providers also deduct transfer or conversion charges

🏦 Popular Providers and Their Refund Rules

🔹 Fintiba

• Fully online process
• Refunds in 3–4 weeks after complete documentation
• Charges a one-time setup fee (non-refundable)
• 🔗 Refund process link

🔹 Expatrio

• Allows you to cancel from dashboard
• Refund takes 2–5 weeks
• Initial service fees are non-refundable
• 🔗 Refund instructions

🔹 Coracle

• Supports Indian bank refunds
• Refunds processed in under 3 weeks
• Provides clear email-based support
• 🔗 Coracle refund info

🔹 Deutsche Bank

• Physical bank – process is slower
• Requires you to visit a branch or send notarized documents
• Can take 6–10 weeks
• 📌 Recommended only if you’re already in Germany

💸 Will You Get the Full Amount Back?

You’ll receive:

✔️ Your full blocked amount (e.g., €11,208)

❌ Minus any of the following:

• Non-refundable setup fee (usually €89–€150)
• Bank transfer or SWIFT charges
• Currency conversion loss (if euro has dropped against INR)

🪪 Can You Use the Same Blocked Account Later?

In most cases:

• Once refunded, the account is closed permanently
• You’ll need to open a new account if you reapply for a visa

✅ Some providers (like Fintiba) allow easy reopening if reapplying soon

🛑 But you cannot use the old account again for a fresh application unless it’s reactivated

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Submitting incomplete refund forms

❌ Not attaching the visa rejection letter

❌ Entering incorrect Indian bank details

❌ Expecting instant refunds—banks take time

✅ Always follow up by email if there's no response after 3 weeks

🤔 Should You Cancel Right Away After Rejection?

Ask yourself:

• Are you planning to appeal or reapply soon?
• Is the rejection due to documentation issues (fixable) or eligibility?

If you're reapplying within 1–2 months, don’t cancel immediately—some providers allow you to retain the account without refund.

💬 Final Thoughts

Getting a German visa rejection is disheartening—but the money in your blocked account is safe.

As long as you have your rejection letter and follow the proper steps, you'll get a full refund (minus small fees).

💡 Plan ahead, document everything, and don’t hesitate to ask your provider’s support team questions.

📥 Need Help Reapplying or Switching Providers?

Visit AbroadSaathi.com for:

• Visa reapplication guides
• Blocked account provider comparisons
• Free PDF: “Blocked Account Refund Checklist for Indian Students”