If you're planning to study in Germany, you'll quickly run into the term 'blocked account' — or Sperrkonto. It's one of the most common things students worry about, and one of the easiest to demystify.
A blocked account is simply a special bank account where you deposit enough money to cover your living costs for your first year in Germany. It proves to the visa authorities that you can support yourself. The money is 'blocked' in the sense that you can only withdraw a set amount each month once you arrive.
The required amount is set by the German government and updates periodically, so always confirm the current figure before you transfer. You open the account with an approved provider, transfer the funds, receive a confirmation, and include it in your visa application.
Because Germany's public universities charge little or no tuition, the blocked account is often the single biggest upfront cost — which is exactly why planning it early matters. We walk students through choosing a provider, timing the transfer, and getting the paperwork right so the visa step is smooth.
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