ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳

Skip to content

Funding your German Blocked Account in 2024: How much money do you need?

Expatrio 2024-10-25

Contents

Opening and funding your Blocked Account is one of the first steps to secure your German visa. In 2024, the amount you need to prove to the German authorities that you have enough funds to live in Germany will increase to €992 per month.

Find out about the new funding requirements for your German Blocked Account, how to adjust your existing account, and answers to other important questions! Jump to FAQs.

What is a German Blocked Account?

A Blocked Account (Sperrkonto) is a special type of bank account for international students and other visa applicants in Germany. It provides proof to German authorities that you have enough money to cover your living expenses during your stay. The money you deposit in the account is "blocked", meaning you can only withdraw a limited amount each month once you arrive in Germany.

What is the blocked amount increasing to?

For Winter Semester 2024, the monthly requirement is increasing from €934 to €992, so you will need €11,904 for a 12-month visa. This update is to ensure that internationals in Germany have enough funds to live in Germany.

Please note: German embassies or consulates may ask you to provide a different amount of money to fund your Blocked Account, depending on the type of visa you request, whether you have scholarship funding, etc. We recommend you check the visa requirements listed by the visa office handling your application. 

Why is the blocked amount increasing?

The German government sometimes reviews the cost of living and adjusts the Bafög rate accordingly. The Bafög rate is the national standard for the minimum amount of money a student needs to live in Germany.

The required blocked amount is based on the Bafög rate, so when the Bafög rate increases, the required blocked amount also increases.

Expatrio Value Package

Simplify your move to Germany with Expatrio's Value Package! Get your mandatory Health Insurance + Blocked Account + free German Bank Account, and other free benefits!

Get Value Package

When is the new blocked amount effective?

Though the exact date the new requirement will take effect isn't certain, German authorities are already asking some visa applicants to show proof of the higher amount (€992 p/m). We advise you to prepare this amount in advance to avoid any visa delays. It is very likely that any students coming to Germany for Winter Semester 2024 will need proof of €992 per month, €11,904 for a 12-month visa.

How much has the blocked amount increased?

Here's a quick overview of the new and previous amounts required for the Blocked Account:

Year Monthly Amount Annual Amount
2024
€992
€11,904
2023
€934
€11,208
2022
€861
€10,332

 

How to update your Blocked Account amount with Expatrio

If you're using Expatrio for your Blocked Account, updating the amount is simple. Here’s how to do it:

If you have already applied for a visa or Residence Permit:

The German immigration authorities handling your application will contact you directly if you need to increase the blocked amount. It's a good idea to double-check with them yourself.

If you have a Blocked Account but have not had your visa appointment yet:

  1. Log into your Expatrio User Portal.
  2. Click on "Blocked Account."
  3. Scroll down and click on "Change Details."
  4. Update the monthly amount and the number of months.
  5. Submit the change request.

If your Blocked Account is already live:

  1. Contact Expatrio Customer Support to update the monthly amount for the remaining months.
  2. Provide details such as which months need updating, the new monthly amount, the country you're transferring from, and the currency.

You can find out more on our

How do I get a document stating the new blocked amount I have transferred? 

If your Blocked Account is not yet activated (i.e., monthly payouts have not started), you will receive a new 06 Blocked Amount Confirmation after the account is updated and the additional funds arrive in your Blocked Account.

Is there an additional fee for increasing the amount?

No, Expatrio does not charge any fees for change requests.


Updating your Blocked Account to meet the new requirements is crucial for a smooth visa process. With the monthly amount increasing to €992, being prepared can save you from any last-minute hassle.

Ready to update your Blocked Account? Log into your Expatrio User Portal today and make the necessary changes. 

If you have any questions or need assistance, contact Expatrio Customer Support. Our also has very useful information. We are ready and waiting to help you on your journey to Germany!

 

FAQ

What is the amount required for a Blocked Account for a German visa in 2024?

How do I update my Blocked Account amount on Expatrio?

Is there a fee for increasing my Blocked Account amount?

Can I transfer more than €11,904?

Who needs a Blocked Account to move to Germany?

How can I open a German Blocked Account?

Who decides what the blocked amount is for German visas?

Group 328

Free Webinar

How to Secure Your German Student Visa

Start your move to Germany!

December 16th, 2024

  • Step-by-step guide to apply for your visa
  • Important documents you'll need

 

This might also be of interest to you

Top DAAD Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in Germany

Top DAAD Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in Germany

Germany is one of the most popular study destinations among Indian students. It offers a high-quality education system and numerous financial aid...

The Ultimate Guide to Masters in Germany for Indian Students

The Ultimate Guide to Masters in Germany for Indian Students

More and more Indian students are heading to Germany for higher education, and it’s easy to see why! In just the past five years, the number of...

How to Study in Germany for Indian Students Guide (2025/2026)

How to Study in Germany for Indian Students Guide (2025/2026)

Germany has become one of the fastest-growing education destinations for Indian students, with enrollment numbers increasing by over 20% in the last...

An electrical engineering student, working in a workshop on an electrical board.

Study Electrical Engineering in Germany

Are you passionate about circuits, systems, and all things electrical? Studying electrical engineering in Germany might be the perfect step for you!...

An international student, sitting in a classroom with her classmates.

Study Marketing in Germany

Looking to study marketing in a global business hub? Germany could be the perfect place for you! With its thriving economy and innovative companies,...

University students sit in a finance lecture, looking at the lecturer's presentation.

Study Finance in Germany

If you’re looking to dive into the world of finance and study in a country renowned for its robust economy and world-class education system, Germany...

Three students in focus, sitting in a business administration lecture room, attentively listening to the teacher.

Study Business Administration in Germany

Germany is a fantastic place to study business administration, with its top-ranked universities, affordable tuition, and vibrant economy. Students...

Two students sitting in a computer lab studying computer science on their laptop and desktop screens.

Study Computer Science in Germany

If you’ve always been excited by technology, like coding your own projects, understanding how computers work, or coming up with app ideas to solve...

Two international students studying in a lecture room, having a conversation.

Study International Business in Germany

In today’s globalized world, a broad, international perspective is essential across industries, especially for business. Companies with diverse teams...