A common proof of funds for a German student visa
Blocked Account for International Students
A blocked account (Sperrkonto) is how many non-EU students prove they can finance their studies in Germany. Other proofs — such as a recognized scholarship or a declaration of commitment (Verpflichtungserklärung) — may also be accepted, depending on the embassy.
- Blocking certificate for embassy and immigration office
- Account details typically within a few business days (VietinBank)
- Refund of the blocked amount if the visa is refused, per VietinBank terms
€12,127.80
Total transfer to VietinBank
Note: FinEase is not a bank but connects you with suitable offers. You conclude contracts with the respective provider.
Trusted partners
Verified product partners for studying in Germany
Germany for Students works with established partners for blocked accounts, statutory student health insurance, and incoming insurance.
Student voices
What students say about opening a blocked account
Experiences from international students who prepared their Sperrkonto / blocked account with Germany for Students.
“Before applying, I was unsure about the required blocked amount and which documents I needed to provide. Germany for Students explained the requirements clearly and guided me through the application step by step. The whole process was straightforward and easier than I expected.”
Arjun
Student from India
“The blocked account requirements initially seemed complicated to me. Germany for Students explained the required amount, the necessary documents and the next steps. This helped me complete my application without being unsure about the process.”
Minh
Student from Vietnam
“I needed both a blocked account and health insurance for my studies in Germany. Having the relevant information and application options in one place made it much easier to prepare my documents and keep track of the next steps.”
Ayesha
Student from Pakistan
Names shown as first names only. Quotes reflect individual student experiences with Germany for Students.
What is a blocked account?
A blocked account is a special bank account for international students. You deposit the legally required minimum amount for one year — the money remains yours but is released in fixed monthly installments. The blocking certificate serves as proof of financing for your visa application.
- Proof for the German embassy / immigration office
- Monthly release of €992 for living in Germany
- Your money stays in your account — only withdrawals are scheduled
- Partner: VietinBank — blocking certificate used for student visa and residence permit
Why a blocked account?
For a German student visa you usually must prove you can cover living costs for the first year. A blocked account is the most common proof — but not always the only one.
Common visa proof
The embassy requires proof of financing — currently €11,904 for 12 months. A blocked account is the usual route. Some posts accept a scholarship or a Verpflichtungserklärung instead.
Your money, protected
The amount stays yours. Once in Germany, you withdraw a fixed monthly sum (€992) to live on.
Blocking certificate
After your deposit arrives, VietinBank issues the blocking certificate. Many embassies and immigration offices use it as proof of funds.
Why VietinBank?
VietinBank offers accounts tailored to international students. Statements about recognition, processing times and refunds come from the partner and follow current VietinBank terms.
Your benefits
- €4.90/month account maintenance (included in the standard transfer)
- Free checking account included
- Account details typically within a few business days
- Refund on visa refusal according to VietinBank terms
Conditions & costs (example)
Example calculation for the standard 12-month case — blocked amount, fees and key conditions. The exact transfer total is calculated in the application.
Minimum blocked amount
€11,904
12 × €992 — remains your money
One-time fees
€165.00
Buffer, opening, confirmation, management
Total bank transfer (12 mo.)
€12,127.80
Blocked amount + one-time fees
Monthly release
€992
After arrival in Germany
Account maintenance (12 mo.)
€58.80
€4.90/month · included in transfer
Account details
A few business days
Typically after applying (VietinBank)
Checking account
Included
Part of the blocked account offer
Visa rejection
Refund possible
Per VietinBank terms
Contract partner
VietinBank
Directly with the partner, not with GFS
How to open via Germany for Students
- 1
Register for free
Create your account — we guide you through blocked account, insurance, and all visa steps.
- 2
Start blocked account application
In your dashboard, start the VietinBank application with your personal details.
- 3
Receive IBAN & transfer funds
Transfer €12,127.80 in total (€11,904.00 blocked amount plus account fees).
- 4
Blocking certificate for visa
After your deposit arrives, VietinBank issues the certificate — in time for your visa appointment.
Important notes
- •Funds are blocked — you can only withdraw the released amount each month.
- •Most non-EU students need proof of funds; a blocked account is the most common route, but not always the only one (scholarship, Verpflichtungserklärung).
- •Transfer fees from your home bank may apply additionally.
- •If your visa is refused, any refund follows VietinBank’s terms — not a guarantee by Germany for Students.
- •The blocked account contract is concluded directly with VietinBank — GFS acts as intermediary only.
Frequently asked questions
How much do I need to deposit?
At least €11,904 blocked amount for 12 months (€992 per month). The standard bank transfer is €12,127.80 including all account fees.
Can I withdraw the money immediately?
No. The account is blocked — you receive €992 per month for your own use once you are in Germany.
How quickly do I get account details?
VietinBank typically indicates a few business days after applying. Timing can vary; the blocking certificate follows after your deposit arrives.
Do I need a blocked account if I have a scholarship or Verpflichtungserklärung?
Not necessarily. A recognized scholarship or a declaration of commitment can replace or complement proof of funds, depending on the embassy. The responsible mission decides what is accepted — a blocked account remains the most common and often simplest proof.
Ready for your studies in Germany?
Register for free — we help you with your blocked account, insurance, and all other steps.
Register for freeThe blocked account contract is concluded directly with VietinBank. Germany for Students (FinEase Financial Service GmbH) acts as intermediary and may receive compensation for successful referrals.