For people intending to move to Germany from outside the EU, setting up a Sperrkonto can be a critical step toward securing your residence permit process, designed to make sure you have the financial means to live in the country.
What is a Sperrkonto?
A Sperrkonto, or blocked account, is a special type of bank account within the German banking system designed to show proof of finances for visa applications.
It's called "blocked" because it requires you to deposit a fixed amount of money before you arrive in Germany, and this sum can only be withdrawn in monthly instalments after arrival. In this way it's designed to ensure you wont run out of money during your stay in the country.
As of 2025, the required total deposit in a blocked account is €11,904 per year, with a maximum withdrawal limit of €992 per month for students.
READ ALSO: Four ways US students and professionals can make the move to Germany
If you need one, it’s best to apply for a blocked account well before applying for your visa. Typically, the German authorities won't issue a visa until you can prove you have access to adequate funds.
If you’re from a country like the USA, Canada, or Australia where you don’t need a visa to enter, it’s possible to open a blocked account after you arrive, but this can lead to delays.
If you’re from the EU/EEA, you usually won’t need a blocked account thanks to the EU's freedom of movement rules which allow you to stay in Germany without a residence permit.
Who needs a Sperrkonto?
You generally need a blocked account if you’re from outside the EU and won’t have an income in Germany. The rule applies even to those who don’t need a visa to enter Germany but plan to apply for a residence permit afterwards.
Students accepted by German universities or language schools, au pairs, job seekers, and apprentices are typically required to open a blocked account. Young professionals applying for a Chancenkarte also need one.
However, if you’re on a fully funded scholarship, like DAAD, you’re usually exempt.
Is there any way around getting a Sperrkonto?
While the blocked account is the most common method of establishing you have sufficient funds to live in Germany, there are some alternatives.
One option is the Verpflichtungserklärung (Letter of Commitment), where someone with sufficient funds to feasibly cover your living costs signs a letter essentially saying they agree to be financially responsible for you. The guarantor must prove they have enough income, typically with a bank statement, and also pay an administrative fee.
READ ALSO: What international students should know about scholarships in Germany
Another alternative is showing proof of a full scholarship, which can also exempt you from needing a blocked account.
In some cases, providing proof of sufficient personal income or assets may substitute for the Sperrkonto, but these alternatives often require extra documentation and approval by German authorities.
How do I open a Sperrkonto?
First, pick a bank or provider and fill out their application form online or on paper. You’ll need to provide ID documents, sometimes certified by a German embassy. After approval, transfer the required deposit ahead of your visa interview.
EXPLAINED: What are the best bank accounts in Germany for freelancers?
The bank will then send you a confirmation letter, which you must include in your visa application.
How should I choose which provider to use?
Setting up a Sperrkonto generally costs between €50 and €150 initially, with some banks charging about €5 a month to maintain it.
You can get a blocked account from regular banks such as Targobank or Postbank, but many prefer specialized providers who offer faster, simpler online processes and extra services. Popular providers are Fintiba, Expatrio, and Coracle.
At time of writing, Expatrio currently charges an €89 setup fee and €5 per month, partners with Aion Bank, and offers extras like health and travel insurance.
READ ALSO: Why it's almost impossible to find a free bank account in Germany
Fintiba currently charges an €89 setup fee and €4.90 monthly, works directly with Sutor Bank and has a mobile app.
Coracle is the most economical option with a €99 setup fee and no monthly fees. They work through Lemonway, a French financial service provider.
How do I close a Sperrkonto?
Typically a blocked account should be kept for the duration of your study period or initial residence permit. Then it either converts to a regular bank account or closes.
But sometimes people need to close their blocked account early, for example if their visa is rejected or they need to leave Germany earlier than planned.
In the first instance, you should be able to close the blocked account by sharing a copy of the rejection letter with the provider.
In the latter case, you’ll need to get written approval to close the account from your local Ausländerbehörde (Foreigners’ Office). An Abmeldebestätigung (certificate of deregistration) isn’t enough.
After the account is closed, any leftover funds will be sent back to your original account.
Comments