Blocked Bank Account in Germany: All You Need to Know (2024)

This is a complete guide to blocked accounts in Germany, updated for 2024.

So, if you want to obtain the Chancenkarte or secure your place at university, you’ll love this guide.

Ready? Let’s dive right in.

What is a blocked account?

A blocked account is a particular bank account where you deposit a set amount of money that is “frozen” for some time. This account is a visa requirement because the German government wants to ensure you have enough funds to support yourself throughout your stay. For student visas, you typically need €11,208 in this account. 

How it works

• Your funds are frozen: You can only access a certain amount each month.
• Monthly allowance: €934 per month is transferred to a current account to cover expenses like rent, food, and other necessities.
• Duration: Your funds are evenly spread over 12 months.

Who needs a blocked account?

If you’re from a non-EU or non-Schengen country, a blocked account is necessary for many visas, including the new job seeker visa (Chancenkarte) and a student visa.

Who doesn’t need a blocked account?

Citizens of EU or Schengen member states don’t need a visa to study or work in Germany, so they don’t need a blocked account.

Possible exemptions

You might not need a blocked account if you have:

• Parental income documents: Proof of your parent’s income and financial status.
• Scholarship certificate: From a recognized scholarship provider.
• Letter of commitment (Verpflichtungserklärung): A permanent resident of Germany (like a relative or friend) can guarantee that your expenses will be covered.
• Bank guarantee: An official guarantee from your bank.

Note: Visa and residence permit requirements can vary depending on your nationality, the type of visa you apply for, and the rules at the time. Always check the latest regulations to be sure.

Step-by-step instructions on how to open a blocked account

Step 1: Apply early

Opening a blocked account can take anywhere from one to six weeks. Start early because you need the bank’s confirmation to apply.

Step 2: Determine how much to deposit

Your blocked account needs at least €11,208 for a student visa. You might need to deposit 5-15% more for other visas.

• Tip: Call your local mission abroad to determine the required amount.

Our advice: don’t deposit more on this account

Depositing more than the minimum amount isn’t necessary. Extra money will also be “blocked,” meaning you can’t access it freely.

• Tip: Keep extra funds in a current account. €934 might not cover a whole month, especially in pricier cities like Frankfurt or Munich.

Step 3: Choose your provider

You have two choices: work directly with a bank or intermediaries. Here’s how they compare:

Our Advice: Choose the best of both worlds.

You can open your account with various providers, but we recommend ICICI Bank. Our customers have had great experiences with it. 

ICICI is an Indian-based bank, and it is especially popular with students who want to transfer funds to a blocked account. 

Here are a few reasons why we recommend it:

• Fast: You can open it in minutes. Plus, it’s ready to go before you arrive in Germany, so you don’t need to schedule a bank appointment when you arrive.
• Complimentary current account: This is perfect because you’ll need one to access your monthly allowance.
• Pre-Arrival Visa Debit Card: ICICI Bank will send you a free Visa Debit Card to your home – super convenient!
• Entirely Online: you can open your account from home or work using your computer or phone. 
• ATM Access Throughout Europe: Thanks to ICICI Bank’s partnership with Visa, you can withdraw cash from any Visa ATM in Europe.
• Dedicated Service Helpline: Get help anytime with unique phone numbers for support in Germany and India.

Plus, if you choose Expat Insurance, ICICI customers receive a 15 EUR discount on expat insurance. Also, you’ll get 90 days of free travel insurance if you sign up for public insurance through Feather.

Step 4: Prepare official documents

To apply for your blocked account, you’ll need:

• Your passport and a photocopy of the biometrics page.
• A government-issued identification document that bears your personal information alongside your present address.

Step 5: Open your blocked account & transfer funds

Let’s break down how to open your account with ICICI Bank:

1. Complete the online application form: Fill out the form on their website.
2. Upload your documents: You must upload a copy of your passport and proof of residence.
3. Fund your account: Transfer money into your account and get your Debit Card via bank transfer.
4. Get your balance confirmation certificate: Once you fund your account, this is available online.

Managing your blocked account

How can you activate your blocked account?

To unlock your blocked account, you need to open a current account in Germany:

• With ICICI Bank: You get a free current account when opening a blocked one.
• With other providers: You must register your address and get a Registration Certificate before accessing your funds.

Can you withdraw from your blocked account?

No, you cannot withdraw from your blocked account. You’ll have to open a current account to receive the monthly allowance.

How to close your account if your visa application is denied

If your visa application is rejected, you can still close your account and get your funds back. Here’s what you need to know:

• You must provide a reason: Contact your provider and provide proof from the German Embassy or consulate your visa application was rejected.
• It takes time: You’ll receive your refunds within typically 2-4 weeks.
• Fees: Closing without a valid reason might result in lost processing fees.

How to extend your account beyond one year

If your studies last longer than a year, you’ll need to show you can support yourself financially:

Most often, with proof of funds: This can be from a personal bank account, parental support, or a sponsor.

Sometimes, the Immigration Office might require you to extend your blocked account through a Blocked account extension. If this is the case, contact your provider. 

They’ll forward you a form and confirm the exact process for expanding your account for another year.

With ICICI Bank, you can go through the entire process online. Once you transfer your funds, you’ll receive a confirmation of your account’s extension or reactivation.

What to do after opening your blocked account: Get health insurance

Health insurance is a mandatory requirement for all residents in Germany. This includes international students and visa applicants.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to your health insurance options:

Expat health insurance

Expat health insurance is highly recommended because it’s universally valid for all types of visas and can be used to obtain your first residence permit. 

It’s specifically designed to cater to the needs of expatriates, ensuring comprehensive coverage and peace of mind.

You can also learn more by reading our complete guide to expat health insurance.

Public Health Insurance

International students under 30 and those enrolled in regular degree programs are eligible for public health insurance. You might switch to public insurance once you have your visa and residence permit, as it offers more comprehensive coverage.

Private Health Insurance

For some, private health insurance might be the better option, especially If you’re a student over 30 or pursuing a non-traditional or short-term program. In these cases, you might not be eligible for public health insurance.

Another reason you might opt for private insurance is because you desire more extensive coverage for things like dentistry or vision care.

You can also learn more by reading our complete guide to private health insurance.