Quick answer

A blocked account (Sperrkonto) holds the money Germany asks you to show for your living costs: in most cases EUR 11,904 for the first year, or EUR 992 a month (Study in Germany, DAAD). You cannot use the money before you arrive, and only a set amount can be withdrawn each month, so it lasts the year (Federal Foreign Office).

It is the usual way to prove funds, not the only one: your parents' income, a guarantee from someone living in Germany, a bank guarantee or a scholarship can count instead. Ask the German embassy or consulate where you apply which proof it accepts.

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How a blocked account works

The steps as the Federal Foreign Office and DAAD describe them.

  1. Choose a provider. You can open a blocked account at a bank or similar provider, usually online, in Germany or abroad; conditions vary, and you pay the bank's fees on top of the blocked amount (Federal Foreign Office). DAAD puts set-up fees at EUR 70 to 150 (DAAD).
  2. Pay in the amount for your stay. The account is usually opened for a year, unless you plan a shorter stay, and the amount depends on the purpose of your stay: for most students it is EUR 11,904 for the first year.
  3. Name the account beneficiary. That is the German mission where you apply for the visa, and after you arrive the foreigners authority. The beneficiary cannot take your money.
  4. Use it in Germany. After you arrive you get a card to access the money, and only a set amount can be withdrawn each month (DAAD).
  5. If you do not go. If your visa is refused, the refusal notice is enough to lift the block. If you did not travel, withdrew your application or did not use the visa, the German mission can issue a certificate to release the money.

Other ways to prove you can pay

  • Documents showing your parents' income and assets.
  • A formal guarantee from someone with permanent residence in Germany to cover your costs.
  • A bank guarantee.
  • A scholarship award notice from a recognised scholarship provider.

Source: Study in Germany (DAAD), proof of financing. Each German mission decides which proof it requires.

Rules checked on 24 September 2026 against the official pages linked. They change: confirm on the linked page before you act.

What to do next

Open the account early: Study in Germany says the paperwork usually takes about a week but can take much longer around the start of the semester.