German Blocked Account

How Does a German-Blocked Account Work?

When you plan to stay in Germany, you must deposit a fixed amount of €934 monthly into a blocked account. This amount is based on the estimated cost of living in Germany and will ensure you have enough funds to support yourself without public assistance. The account is "blocked," meaning you can only withdraw a limited amount each month, usually 1/12th of the deposited sum. Some banks offer debit cards linked to blocked accounts, allowing you to make little purchases within Germany. Once your visa expires, you can access the remaining balance in the account. You can withdraw, transfer, or close the account to another account.

How to Open a German-Blocked Account from India

Many Indian students find opening a German-blocked account through Unimoni from India convenient. The process is entirely online, eliminating the need for in-person visits to the German embassy. You can visit your nearest branch, where a Unimoni representative will guide you through the process, answer your questions, and help you complete the application form.

You should carry,

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay)
• Admission letter from your German university
• Passport-sized photos

There are many service providers if you need to open a blocked account in Germany. Two popular and trustworthy options are Fintiba and Expatrio, which have a good track record among international students. However, you're not limited to just these two providers. Other companies also offer blocked accounts with different features, fees, and levels of customer service. Some providers may have lower setup fees but charge a monthly fee.

Once you open a blocked account with Fintiba or Expatrio, you will receive a PDF file containing all the essential details about your account. This document is your official confirmation and proof of funds for your German student visa application.

Here's what you can typically expect to find in the PDF:

• Account Holder Information: Your full name/Date of birth/Nationality/Passport number/German address (if applicable)
• Account Details:Blocked account number/IBAN (International Bank Account Number)/BIC (Bank Identifier Code)/Name of the bank holding your account/Opening date of the account/Blocked amount deposited
• Access and Usage Information: Monthly withdrawal limit/Debit card details (if applicable)/Online banking access instructions (if available)/Information on requesting additional withdrawals for approved expenses
• Blocking Certificate Information: Unique blocking certificate number / The expiration date of the certificate/Confirmation that the funds are blocked and cannot be withdrawn without authorization
• Additional Information: Contact details for Fintiba or Expatrio customer support/Fees associated with the account (setup, monthly, etc.)/Terms and conditions of the blocked account agreement

It's crucial to keep this PDF safe and readily accessible. You will need it for your visa application, enrollment at your German university, and any situations requiring proof of your financial resources.

• Passport/PAN Card
• Offer letter
• Payment instructions (PDF File)
• Copy of Passbook/Cheque for bank verification

To start your account, you must pay a one-time setup fee of €49 at the branch. If you prefer, you can also initiate a transfer of the minimum required amount of €11,208 for 12 months through the branch. A branch representative will verify your documents and may ask for additional information. Once everything is confirmed, they will help you activate your account online. After successful activation and fund transfer, you will receive your Blocking Certificate electronically or a printed copy at the branch.

How much do I need to deposit?

To determine the amount required for your German-blocked account, consider the duration of your stay in Germany. As of October 26, 2023, the minimum monthly deposit is €934. Therefore, for a 12-month stay (which is the most common), you must deposit €11,208. For a 6- month stay, you must deposit €5,604; for a 3-month stay (the minimum for visa application), the required deposit is €2,802.

This amount is based on the estimated cost of living, including expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and other necessities. It is important to note that the deposit must be made in Euros, and the funds should be readily available. They must not be tied up in investments or property. Additionally, you can only withdraw a limited amount each month, usually 1/12th of the deposited sum.