What is a Sperrkonto? The Essential Guide to Germany’s Blocked Account for Students

If you’re planning to study in Germany as an international student, one of the first financial steps you’ll encounter is the Sperrkonto, also known as a blocked account. While it might sound intimidating, the Sperrkonto is actually a simple financial requirement that plays a key role in your visa process.

In this guide, we’ll explain what a Sperrkonto is, why you need it, how to open one, and what to do if something goes wrong.

🇩🇪 What is a Sperrkonto?

A Sperrkonto is a special type of bank account required by the German government to ensure that international students have enough funds to cover their living expenses while studying in Germany.

It’s “blocked” because:

• You must deposit a fixed amount before entering Germany.
• You can only withdraw a limited monthly amount once you arrive.

Think of it as Germany’s way of making sure that students can support themselves without relying on government aid.

💰 How Much Money Do You Need to Deposit?

As of 2025, the minimum amount you must deposit into your Sperrkonto is:

• €11,208 per year, which equals
• €934 per month

This is based on the estimated cost of living in Germany for a student.

Some students deposit more if they plan to stay longer or want a higher monthly allowance.

🏦 Where Can You Open a Sperrkonto?

There are several government-accepted providers, including:

Fintiba Fintech Fast , fully digital process

Expatrio Fintech Also offers health insurance bundles

Deutsche Bank Traditional Bank Slower, manual process, but well-established

Coracle Online Service Offers bundled student packages

⚠️ Only use approved providers recognized by German embassies and consulates in your home country.

📜 Why Do You Need a Sperrkonto?

You need a Sperrkonto to:

• Apply for a student visa
• Get a residence permit in Germany
• Prove financial stability

Without it, your visa application will likely be rejected.

🛠️ How Does It Work?

1. Apply online through a provider (e.g., Fintiba, Expatrio).
2. Get confirmation of your account opening.
3. Deposit the required funds (€11,208 or more).
4. Receive a confirmation document, which you submit with your visa application.
5. After arriving in Germany, verify your identity and unlock the monthly allowance.
6. You can withdraw around €934 per month to cover your living expenses.

🤔 What Happens If You Don’t Use the Full Amount?

If you leave Germany early or your visa gets rejected, you can usually:

• Close the account, and
• Request a refund (minus any service fees)

Just be prepared: refunds can take a few weeks and often require proof from the embassy.

🚨 Common Problems with Sperrkonto – and How to Solve Them

❌ Account Blocked or Delayed?

• Double-check documents: Make sure your passport, address, and identity verification are complete.
• Contact customer support of your provider immediately.

🕒 Slow Transfer or Approval?

• Plan ahead: Start the process at least 6–8 weeks before your visa interview.
• Use fast transfer services like Wise or Remitly if your local bank is slow.

🔒 Can’t Withdraw After Arrival?

• You likely need to complete your registration (Anmeldung) or provide a German address.
• Some providers also require proof of student enrollment.

📌 Final Tips for Using a Sperrkonto

• ✅ Open your Sperrkonto early — delays are common during peak visa season.
• ✅ Use a trusted provider with good customer support.
• ✅ Keep all documents (ID, visa, address registration, university letter) ready for verification.
• ✅ Budget your money wisely — €934/month isn’t much in cities like Munich or Berlin.

📝 Conclusion

The Sperrkonto might seem like just another bureaucratic hurdle, but it's actually a vital safety net — for you and for the German system. It shows you're serious about studying abroad and prepared to live independently.

Handled correctly, it’s a one-time process that clears the path to a smooth start in Germany.