The German Student Visa Guide (2026): Blocked Accounts & Requirements Explained

So, you've been accepted to a university in Germany? Congratulations! Now comes the tricky part: the bureaucracy.

For non-EU students, getting a German student visa is the most critical step. And if you ask anyone who's done it, they'll tell you one thing: Start early.

This guide will walk you through the entire process for 2026, with a special focus on the most confusing requirement: the Blocked Account (Sperrkonto).

1. Do You Even Need a Visa?

First, check if you need a visa to enter Germany for study purposes:

EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens: No visa required. You just need to register your address (Anmeldung) upon arrival.
"Best Friends" Nations (USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, UK, Israel): You can enter Germany visa-free and apply for a residence permit after you arrive. HOWEVER, we strongly recommend applying for a visa beforehand to avoid stress.
Everyone Else: You MUST apply for a student visa at the German embassy/consulate in your home country before you travel.

2. Student Applicant Visa vs. Student Visa

There are two main types of study-related visas:

Visa Type	Who is it for?
Student Visa (Visum zu Studienzwecken)	You have already been admitted to a German university or preparatory college (Studienkolleg).
Student Applicant Visa (Visum zur Studienbewerbung)	You are still applying to universities or need to take an entrance exam (e.g., for Studienkolleg) in Germany. Valid for 3-9 months.

Crucial: Do NOT enter Germany on a tourist visa if you intend to study. You cannot convert a tourist visa into a student residency permit without leaving the country.

3. The "Blocked Account" (Sperrkonto) Explained

This is the #1 hurdle for most students. Germany wants proof that you can afford to live there for at least one year without needing welfare.

How much do I need? (2026 Rates)

As of late 2024/2026, the required amount is €11,904 for one year. This breaks down to €992 per month.

How does it work?

Open an account: You choose a provider (like Expatrio, Fintiba, or Coracle).
Transfer the money: You send the full €11,904 (plus a buffer for fees) to this account.
"Block" it: The provider issues a "Blocking Confirmation" (Sperrbestätigung). You need this paper for your visa appointment.
Monthly Payouts: Once you arrive in Germany and open a normal bank account (Girokonto), the blocked account will release €992 to you every month. You cannot access the full lump sum at once.

Which provider should I choose?

All major providers are accepted by the authorities. Popular government-approved options include:

Expatrio & Coracle: Often have "Value Packages" that include free health insurance and current account setups.
Fintiba: One of the market leaders, very reliable.

4. The Requirement Checklist

When you go to your embassy appointment, you must have these documents organized (usually originals + 2 copies):

✅ Passport: Valid for the entire duration of stay.
✅ Admission Letter (Zulassungsbescheid): From your German university.
✅ Proof of Funds: The Blocked Account confirmation (€11,904).
✅ Health Insurance: Travel insurance for entry (Incoming-Versicherung) is enough for the visa application. Once enrolled, you'll need public student insurance (like TK or AOK).
✅ Visa Application Form: Completed and signed (Videx form).
✅ Recent Biometric Photos: Adhering to German passport requirements.
✅ CV & Motivation Letter: Why Germany? Why this course?
✅ Proof of English/German Proficiency: IELTS/TOEFL or Goethe/TestDaF, depending on your course language.

5. Step-by-Step Timeline

3-4 Months Before Semester Start: Apply for Admission
Wait for your acceptance letter. You can't apply for the full student visa without it.

3 Months Before: Book Embassy Appointment
Slots fill up instantly. Check the embassy website daily. Do this even if you don't have your admission letter yet (you can cancel later).

2 Months Before: Open Blocked Account & Get Insurance
Transfer the money. Get your confirmations.

The Interview
Bring all documents. Be polite. Know details about your course.

Wait Time: 4-8 Weeks
Processing times vary wildly. Do not book non-refundable flights until you have the visa sticker in your passport.

FAQ

Can I use a scholarship as proof of funds?

Yes! If you have a scholarship (like DAAD) that covers at least €992/month, you do NOT need a blocked account. You just need the official scholarship award letter.

Can I work on a student visa?

Yes. As of March 2024 updates, students can work up to 20 hours per week (roughly 140 full days or 280 half days per year).

What if my visa gets rejected?

If you transferred money to a blocked account but don't move to Germany, you CAN get your money back. You just need to show the rejection letter from the embassy to your provider to unlock the funds.

Final Advice

The German visa process is rigorous but fair. If you follow the checklist exactly and provide the correct documents, it is usually a smooth process.

Don't panic, stay organized, and we'll see you in Germany!