#AcademicHelp

What is a blocked account? Can I get a German student visa without a blocked account?

Sushant Gulia
Sushant Gulia
Updated Oct 7, 2024

If you are willing to study abroad, such as in Germany or to get a job, the candidates may be required to open a block account. Therefore in the blog, we will highlight all the different options in exceptions to block accounts. 

What is a blocked account?

The blocked account or Sperrkonto is a type of bank account required by German law for international students to secure a German Visa. In the year 2024, students going to Germany for a master's are required to open a blocked account with an amount of 11, 208 Euros per year. The money present in this account can be used for daily expenses when staying in Germany. Although it is important to note that, the amount should be deposited in the account before applying for the German Visa. 

Studying in Germany without the presence of a blocked account 

Studying in Germany without an unblocked account is also possible, only if you fulfil any one of the below-mentioned requirements

  • Having a scholarship from an educational establishment,
  • Confirmation letter for government funding, or having an approved student loan in Germany. 
  • Having an invitation from a friend or relative studying in Germany also known as (Verpflichtungserklärung). Also, it is important to mention the reason for the invitation, showcasing “Studium”, also known as studies. The document should be submitted to the Aliens registration office in Germany. 

To get the declaration of commitment it is important to have a friend, relative, or business who is a legal resident or has a registered legal business entity in Germany and is taking the responsibility from the federal authorities that they will cover the costs when the student is in the country. The entity or person signing the declaration of Commitment is required to provide a formal obligation showcasing that they will financially support the stay of the student in Germany. The document is required to be obtained in person,  at the Alien’s Registration Office in Germany, and the reason for invitation should be “Studium” or studies, or “Arbeit” or work. 

Also, if you have a declaration of commitment, and meet the other documents, you are eligible to study in Germany without the requirement of a blocked account. However in case you fail to meet any of the above-mentioned requirements, then in that case you will be required to open a block account, to get a student visa in Germany.