If you are applying for a German student visa or a language course visa, you will need a Sperrkonto — a German blocked account. This is one of the most non-negotiable requirements of the German student visa process, and getting it wrong (wrong amount, wrong type, or wrong provider) can delay your visa by months. This guide explains the current 2026 requirements, how much money you need, and which providers are available for Indian applicants.
What Is a Blocked Account (Sperrkonto)?
A Sperrkonto is a special bank account opened in Germany in your name that holds a fixed amount of money which can only be withdrawn in monthly instalments after you arrive. It proves to the German Embassy that you have sufficient funds to support yourself financially during your studies without needing to work or seek government support. The German government sets the required minimum amount and reviews it annually.
2026 Blocked Account Requirements
| Requirement | 2026 Amount | Notes |
| Annual amount required | EUR 11,904 | Set by German government — updated yearly |
| Monthly access after arrival | EUR 992 per month | You can withdraw this amount each month |
| Student visa (full year) | EUR 11,904 | Full annual amount required in account |
| Short course / language visa (3 months) | EUR 2,976 | 3 months x EUR 992 |
| Exchange rate (approx.) | 1 EUR = approx. Rs 90-95 | Check current rate — verify at time of transfer |
Note: The EUR 11,904 figure is based on the 2024/2025 standard and is expected to remain similar for 2026. Always verify the current required amount at the German Embassy India website before opening your account, as amounts are updated annually.
Approved Blocked Account Providers for Indian Students
| Provider | Fee (Approx.) | Processing Time | Notes for Indian Students |
| Fintiba | EUR 49 setup + EUR 4.90/month | 1-2 weeks | Online application — widely used, German IBAN |
| Expatrio | EUR 29 one-time | 1-2 weeks | Includes health insurance packages |
| Deutsche Bank (Germany) | No fee | 3-4 weeks | Requires in-person visit in Germany — not practical from India |
| Coracle | EUR 29-49 | 1-2 weeks | Insurance bundles available, India-friendly process |
Most Indian students use Fintiba or Expatrio as they allow the account to be opened entirely online from India. The account is opened in Germany in your name, you transfer the required funds via international bank transfer (SWIFT), and receive a certificate of deposit that you submit with your visa application.
Step-by-Step Process for Opening a Blocked Account
- Step 1: Register on your chosen provider’s website (Fintiba, Expatrio, or Coracle). Enter your personal details and passport information.
- Step 2: Receive your German IBAN and account certificate. The account is created before you transfer money.
- Step 3: Transfer the required amount from India via SWIFT/wire transfer. Your Indian bank will need the German IBAN and provider’s BIC code.
- Step 4: Once funds are confirmed received, the provider issues you a Sperrkonto certificate (Kontonachweis) within 1-5 business days.
- Step 5: Include this certificate in your German student visa application as proof of financial means.
- Step 6: After arriving in Germany, you can withdraw EUR 992 per month from the account.
Key Takeaways
- The 2026 blocked account requirement is approximately EUR 11,904 (about Rs 10.7-11.3 lakhs at current rates).
- Fintiba, Expatrio, and Coracle are the most practical providers for Indian applicants — fully online process.
- Open the account at least 4-6 weeks before your visa appointment to allow time for international transfer clearing.
- The Sperrkonto certificate is a mandatory visa document — it cannot be substituted with a regular bank statement.
- After arrival in Germany, you withdraw EUR 992 per month. The remaining balance stays locked until the next month.
References & Further Reading
- Fintiba — Blocked Account for Indian Students: https://fintiba.com
- Expatrio — Blocked Account and Insurance: https://www.expatrio.com
- German Embassy India — Student Visa Financial Requirements: https://india.diplo.de/in-en/service/visa-einreise/student-visa/1342108
- DAAD India — Living Costs in Germany: https://www.daad.in/en/
Each post reviewed by the languagetest.in research team.