Your Complete Guide to Opening a Blocked Account in Germany

What Is a Blocked Account?

A blocked account is a special type of German bank account designed specifically for international students and visa applicants. Unlike a regular bank account, the funds you deposit are "blocked" or restricted, meaning you cannot access the full amount immediately. Instead, you receive a fixed monthly allowance once you arrive in Germany.

This financial arrangement serves as proof to German authorities that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your studies, covering essential expenses like accommodation, food, transportation, and health insurance.

Who Needs a Blocked Account?

A blocked account is mandatory for most international students from non-EU/EEA countries who are applying for a German student visa. This requirement applies regardless of your home country's economic status, whether you're from the United States, India, Canada, China, or any other nation outside the European Union.

You'll need a blocked account if you're coming to Germany for:

• University studies (Bachelor's, Master's, PhD programs)

• Preparatory courses (Studienkolleg)

• Language courses

• Training or internships

• Job-seeking visas

The blocked account requirement ensures that you have a reliable financial foundation for your entire stay in Germany, protecting both you and the German state by establishing continuous financial support throughout your intended period of residence.

How Much Money Do You Need?

For 2025, the minimum required amount for a blocked account is €11,904 per year, which equals €992 per month. This amount is not arbitrary, it's based on the BAföG rate (Bundesausbildungsförderungsgesetz), Germany's federal education assistance standard that represents the minimum cost of living for students in Germany.

This monthly allowance is designed to cover:

• Rent and accommodation

• Food and groceries

• Public transportation

• Health insurance premiums

• Books and study materials

• Basic personal expenses

Can You Deposit More?

Yes, absolutely! While €11,904 is the minimum requirement, you can deposit more if you anticipate higher living costs. Many students choose to deposit €12,000-€13,000 to provide a financial buffer for emergencies or if they plan to live in more expensive cities like Munich or Frankfurt. However, you cannot deposit less than the required minimum amount.

Important Note on Costs by City

The required amount represents a baseline, but your actual living costs will vary depending on your location. Berlin, despite being the capital, is generally one of the more affordable major cities, while Munich tends to be the most expensive. Research your specific city to understand whether the monthly allowance will comfortably cover your lifestyle.

Why Choose Expatrio? The Steinbeis Next Partnership Advantage

At Steinbeis University – Schools of Next Practices, we understand that preparing for your move to Germany involves numerous steps and decisions. That's why we've partnered with Expatrio, one of Germany's most trusted and student-friendly blocked account providers, to simplify this process for our students.

Exclusive Benefit: Steinbeis Next students receive a special partnership code that provides additional advantages when opening their blocked account through Expatrio. This partnership ensures you receive priority support and the best possible experience as you prepare for your studies.

Why Expatrio Stands Out

1. All-in-One Value Package

Expatrio's Value Package is designed specifically for international students and includes everything you need for your visa application and life in Germany:

• Blocked Account: Fast, secure, and accepted by all German authorities worldwide

• Health Insurance: Both mandatory travel health insurance (for up to 92 days) and comprehensive German health insurance options (public TK insurance or private insurance)

• Free German Bank Account: Automatically connected to your blocked account for instant monthly payouts, no need for a separate IBAN

• Free Digital ISIC Card: International Student Identity Card with access to worldwide discounts

• Up to €90 Cashback: Annual cashback opportunities through TK-Flex for three years

2. Instant German IBAN

One of Expatrio's standout features is that you receive a German IBAN (International Bank Account Number) as part of your free bank account. This IBAN is essential for:

• Receiving your monthly blocked account payouts

• Setting up direct debits for rent and utilities

• Making payments to German merchants and service providers

• Apple Pay and Google Pay compatibility for contactless payments

Unlike some providers that require you to open a separate German bank account after arrival, Expatrio's integrated approach means your blocked account payouts are automatically deposited into your Expatrio bank account every month, streamlining your financial management from day one.

3. Comprehensive Insurance Setup

Moving to Germany requires multiple types of insurance, and Expatrio simplifies this process:

Travel Health Insurance: Free coverage worth up to €95, mandatory for your visa application and valid for your first 92 days in Germany. This insurance follows Schengen guidelines and is accepted by German embassies worldwide.

German Health Insurance: Choose between:

• Public Health Insurance with Techniker Krankenkasse (TK): Awarded "Best Student Health Insurance Fund" by Focus Money 19 times in a row, TK offers comprehensive coverage with English-speaking customer service and bonus programs

• Private Health Insurance with ottonova or DR-WALTER: Award-winning providers offering extensive coverage with affordable rates

The health insurance is mandatory for your visa and for living in Germany, so having it bundled with your blocked account saves time, reduces paperwork, and ensures everything is properly coordinated.

4. Fast and Efficient Customer Service

International students often have urgent questions and concerns, especially when dealing with visa deadlines. Expatrio's customer service is designed with students in mind:

• 24-hour response time commitment

• Multi-language support (including English, Chinese, and Korean)

• Fast chatbot function on their website, app, and FAQ page for immediate answers

• Dedicated support team available via email and chat

• Clear, step-by-step guidance throughout the entire process

With over 8,800 customer reviews on Trustpilot, Expatrio maintains a strong reputation for helping students navigate the blocked account and insurance process. Many reviewers specifically praise the timely support and clear instructions that help them meet their visa deadlines.

5. Quick and Easy Online Process

Opening a blocked account with Expatrio is entirely digital and remarkably fast:

• Complete online application in just a few minutes

• Account opens within 24 hours after application approval

• Instant blocking confirmation once funds are received

• Money-back guarantee if your visa is rejected

No need for in-person visits to embassies or banks, and no complicated paperwork, everything is handled efficiently through their user-friendly platform.

6. Affordable and Transparent Pricing

Expatrio offers competitive pricing with no hidden fees:

• €89 one-time setup fee

• €5 monthly maintenance fee

• €100 buffer amount (refunded with your last monthly payout, used to cover any potential transaction fees)

The total amount you'll transfer is €12,133 (€11,904 required amount + €149 in fees + €100 buffer). This transparent pricing structure means no surprises, and the Value Package represents excellent value when you consider all the included services.

Step-by-Step: How to Open Your Blocked Account with Expatrio

Step 1: Register Online

Visit the Expatrio website and begin the online application. You'll complete a brief questionnaire about your plans in Germany, your age, and the duration of your stay. This helps Expatrio tailor the package to your specific needs.

Step 2: Complete Your Application

Provide your personal information, education details, and contact information. You'll need to upload a scanned copy of your valid passport. The application process is straightforward and takes just a few minutes.

Step 3: Account Opening

Once submitted, your application is typically approved within 24 hours. You'll receive an email confirmation with your IBAN and detailed instructions for the money transfer.

Step 4: Transfer Funds

Using the IBAN provided, transfer the required funds (€12,133 total) from your home country. Expatrio partners with Flywire, allowing you to transfer money in your local currency in many countries, making the process faster and more affordable. International transfers typically take 3-5 business days, while domestic transfers take 2-3 business days.

Step 5: Receive Your Confirmation

Once Expatrio receives your funds, you'll immediately receive your Blocking Confirmation document—the official proof of financial means required for your visa application. Download this document and bring it to your visa appointment at the German embassy or consulate.

Step 6: Activate Upon Arrival

After you arrive in Germany and receive your residence permit certificate, you'll activate your blocked account and bank account through the Expatrio User Portal. This simple online process also activates your health insurance. Once activated, you'll start receiving your monthly payouts of €992 automatically deposited into your Expatrio bank account.

Understanding Your Monthly Payouts

Once your blocked account is activated in Germany, here's how the monthly payouts work:

• On the first week of each month, €992 is automatically transferred from your blocked account to your Expatrio German bank account

• You can then use this money freely for all your expenses

• You can withdraw cash from ATMs, make card payments, set up direct debits, and use Apple Pay or Google Pay

• You cannot access more than the monthly allowance, this restriction ensures you have steady financial support throughout the year

If you need additional funds beyond the monthly amount, you'll need to have alternative financial resources (part-time work, family support, savings, etc.).

Key Reminders and Tips

Before You Apply

• Always verify the current required amount with the German embassy or consulate in your country, as requirements can occasionally vary

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay

• Have all necessary documents ready before starting your application

During the Transfer

• Double-check that the name on your transfer matches your passport exactly, mismatches can cause delays or rejections

• Monitor exchange rates if transferring in a foreign currency

• Keep all transaction receipts and documentation

• Allow sufficient time for the transfer before your visa appointment (at least 1-2 weeks)

After Arrival

• Register your address in Germany within two weeks of arrival

• Enroll at Steinbeis University and obtain your Certificate of Enrollment (Immatrikulationsbescheinigung)

• Activate your blocked account and health insurance as soon as you have your residence permit

• Submit required documents promptly to avoid delays in receiving your monthly payouts

Why This Matters for Steinbeis Next Students

At Steinbeis Next, we're committed to supporting you throughout your entire journey, from application to graduation. Our partnership with Expatrio represents our dedication to:

• Simplifying administrative processes so you can focus on your studies

• Providing trusted resources that meet all official requirements

• Offering exclusive benefits through our partnership code

• Ensuring financial security so you can concentrate on your academic and professional development

By choosing Expatrio as your blocked account provider, you're not just meeting a visa requirement, you're setting yourself up for financial stability and peace of mind during your time at Steinbeis University.

Ready to Get Started?

Opening a blocked account is one of the most important steps in your journey to study at Steinbeis Next. With the right preparation and the support of trusted partners like Expatrio, this process can be smooth and stress-free.

As a Steinbeis Next student, remember to use your exclusive partnership code when applying through Expatrio to unlock additional benefits and priority support.

If you have questions about the blocked account process or need assistance accessing your partnership benefits, contact the Steinbeis Next international student services team. We're here to support you every step of the way.

About Steinbeis University – Schools of Next Practices

Steinbeis Next is a forward-thinking institution that combines academic excellence with practical, project-based learning. Our international student community thrives in an environment that prioritizes innovation, industry partnerships, and real-world application of knowledge. We're committed to ensuring our students have the resources and support they need to succeed—both in their studies and in building their future careers in Germany and beyond.

Disclaimer: The information in this blog is accurate as of February 2026. Blocked account requirements and amounts are subject to change by German authorities. Always verify current requirements with your local German embassy or consulate before proceeding with your application.