Opening a restricted account for international students in Germany: Restricted accounts compliant with visa requirements
For many international students and language learners, a blocked account is a key requirement for obtaining a visa for Germany. It serves as official proof of financial means for embassies and immigration authorities and ensures that living expenses are covered during your stay in Germany.
In cooperation with our partner Care Concept, Perfekt Deutsch assists you in opening a blocked account entirely online—one that is recognized worldwide and meets all requirements of the Federal Foreign Office. The entire process is transparent, fast, and specifically tailored to the needs of international students and language learners.
What is a blocked account for international students, and why is it required for a German visa?
A blocked bank account (German: Sperrkonto) is a special bank account into which international students must deposit a legally specified amount of money before entering Germany. This balance is initially “blocked” and is paid out in fixed monthly installments after arrival in Germany.
The background: German authorities want to ensure that international students can cover their living expenses on their own and do not rely on government assistance. The blocked account thus serves as proof of financial means during the visa application process.
Current mandatory contribution amount starting in 2024
The currently required amount is:
- 992 € per month, which comes to
- 11.904 € pre year
This amount will be deposited into the blocked account in advance. After you arrive in Germany, you will receive a maximum of 992 euros per month to cover living expenses such as rent, groceries, health insurance, and school supplies.
A blocked account is generally a requirement for a national visa (Section 16 of the Residence Act) and is required by nearly all German embassies.
Who needs a blocked account in Germany?
A blocked account is mandatory for many groups of people who wish to enter Germany from a non-EU country. These include, in particular:
- foreign students at German universities
- Prospective students, that have not yet received final approval
- Participants in language courses in Germany
- Students enrolled in a pre-university program or a DSH preparation course
- Individuals applying for a national student visa
EU citizens do not need a blocked account, as they are exempt from visa requirements. However, for language students in particular, the blocked account is often a key part of the visa application process. By combining a language course, a blocked account, and health insurance, you receive a clear, legally sound solution that is recognized by the authorities and provides you with planning certainty.
Still looking for the right course? We offer Online German Courses for all language levels.
Our partner Care Concept: Open a blocked account conveniently online
With Perfekt Deutsch, you not only receive assistance in choosing your language course, but also a reliable partner for all the formal requirements of your visa. In collaboration with Care Concept, we offer a solution tailored specifically to international students and language learners.
Your benefits at a glance:
- 100% government recognition: The blocked account is fully compliant with the requirements of the Federal Foreign Office, German embassies, and immigration authorities.
- Fully digital & paperless: You can open an account online—without PostIdent, without visiting a bank, and no matter where you are.
- Quick account opening: In many cases, you’ll receive your confirmation of the block within 24 hours—perfect for last-minute visa appointments.
- Everything under one roof: Restricted accounts and health insurance can be managed centrally. This saves time, reduces the need for coordination, and helps prevent errors in visa applications.
- Safe & regulated: Your money is held in escrow accounts at regulated banks (VietinBank). Care Concept meets the highest security standards.
- Affordable rates: You pay a one-time setup fee of €50, after which the account costs just €4.90 per month. A free checking account is included right away.
Step by step: How to open a restricted account
Opening a restricted account through Care Concept is a straightforward process that can be easily completed even without prior experience. Below is an overview of the process:
1. Register online
You register online using the application form and provide your personal information as well as the purpose of your planned stay (e.g., language course or studies).
2. Transfer the blocked amount
After registering, you will receive your new IBAN. Please transfer the total amount required to the designated escrow account using this IBAN. This amount consists of:
- the statutory minimum balance (e.g., €11,904 for 12 months)
- if necessary, a buffer amount to account for exchange rate fluctuations or bank fees
3. Receive confirmation of the block
As soon as the funds are received, you will receive an official blocked account confirmation. You must submit this document to the German Embassy or bring it with you to your visa appointment.
4. Upon arrival in Germany
After you enter the country:
- register with the registration office,
- open a reference account if necessary and
- Activate the blocked account conveniently online.
You will then automatically receive the specified amount (e.g., €992) each month.
Everything under one roof: Escrow account and insurance from Care Concept
A blocked account for international students alone is not sufficient for your visa—valid health insurance is also required. Our partner, Care Concept, offers everything you need in one place.
- Blocked account
- Health Insurance for Students or students
(statutory, e.g., TK, or private interim solution) - Travel or entry insurance for the first few weeks in Germany
The benefits of the combo package:
- Time savings: One application instead of several individual agreements
- Cost savings: Affordable package prices and a money-back guarantee
- Legal certainty: All documents are consistent with one another and comply with visa requirements
- Seamless transition: Insurance coverage starting on the first day – with no waiting periods
This package is a particularly reliable and straightforward solution, especially for language students and prospective students who have not yet enrolled.
Frequently Asked Questions About Restricted Accounts for International Students (FAQ)
-
How much money must be deposited into a blocked account in Germany?
Since September 2024, the legally required monthly amount has been 992 euros. This results in a total blocked amount of 11,904 euros for one year.
In addition, a small buffer amount may be necessary to cover bank and transfer fees or to hedge against exchange rate fluctuations. The exact amount will be clearly displayed to you during the application process.
-
How long does it take to open a blocked account?
Opening a restricted account through Care Concept is done entirely online and is usually very quick:
- Registration: about 10–15 minutes
- Processing: often within 24 hours
- Confirmation of Blocking: Available immediately upon receipt of payment
This makes the blocked account suitable for last-minute visa appointments at the German Embassy.
-
Is the blocked account recognized by the German Embassy and the Foreigners’ Registration Office?
Yes. The blocked account offered by Care Concept through Perfekt Deutsch is:
- recognized worldwide
- in accordance with the guidelines of the Federal Foreign Office
- accepted by German embassies, consulates, and immigration authorities
The issued confirmation of suspension can be used directly for the visa application (national visa under Section 16 of the Residence Act).
-
Can I open a blocked account entirely online?
Yes. The entire process is digital and paperless. You can open the blocked account online from anywhere in the world, which is a major advantage, especially for international applicants.
-
When and how will I receive my payment?
After you arrive in Germany and activate your account, you will receive 992 euros each month via bank transfer to your designated account in Germany. The payment is made automatically according to the established payment schedule as long as the blocked account remains active.
-
What happens to my money if my visa is denied?
If your visa is denied or you do not travel, the following applies:
- You can unblock the account
- The blocked amount you deposited will be refunded to you
- minus any agreed processing fees
This provides you with a high degree of financial security when applying.
-
Do I also need health insurance for the visa?
Yes. In addition to the blocked account, valid health insurance is required to obtain a German visa.
-
Is a blocked account also necessary for language students?
Yes, in most cases. If you:
- take a language course in Germany
- stay longer than 90 days
- apply for a national visa
A blocked account is required as proof of funding unless a letter of commitment is provided.
-
Can I extend or modify the frozen account?
Yes. The term of the restricted account can be extended (e.g., if your studies are extended) or adjusted to reflect a change in status (e.g., from a language course to a degree program).