Funding your German Blocked Account in 2026: How much money do you need?

Opening and funding your Blocked Account is one of the first steps to secure your German visa. The good news is that the Blocked Account amount remains unchanged from 2025 at €11,904 per year (€992 per month). 

In 2026, the standard amount you need to prove to the German authorities that you have enough funds to live in Germany is €992 per month.

Find out about the new funding requirements for your German Blocked Account, how to adjust your existing account, and answers to other important questions! Jump to FAQs.

What is a German Blocked Account?

A Blocked Account (Sperrkonto) is a special type of Bank Account for international students and other visa applicants in Germany. It provides proof to German authorities that you have enough money to cover your living expenses during your stay. The money you deposit in the account is "blocked", meaning you can only withdraw a limited amount each month once you arrive in Germany.

What is the blocked amount for 2026?

From the Winter Semester 2024 onwards, the standard monthly requirement is €992, so you will need €11,904 for a 12-month visa. This ensures that internationals in Germany have enough funds to live in Germany. If you are applying for an Opportunity Card visa, you are required to show proof of funds of €1,091 per month.

Please note: German embassies or consulates may ask you to provide a different amount of money to fund your Blocked Account, depending on the type of visa you request, whether you have scholarship funding, etc. We recommend you check the visa requirements listed by the visa office handling your application. 

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Why is the blocked amount €992 per month?

The German government bases the Blocked Account requirement on the Bafög rate, which is the national standard for the minimum amount of money a student needs to live in Germany.

In 2024, the Bafög rate was updated to €992 per month, and this amount has remained stable for 2025 and 2026. The German government reviews living costs periodically and adjusts the rate when necessary to reflect actual student living expenses.

💡 Wondering what else you need for your university application?
Take a look at the full list of admission requirements for studying in Germany.
You can also explore our Study in Germany hub for tips on courses, applications, and life in Germany.

When did the current blocked amount take effect?

The €992 per month requirement (€11,904 per year) has been in effect since the Winter Semester 2024 and continues through 2026. All visa applicants must prepare this amount in advance to avoid any delays.

How much has the blocked amount increased?

Here's a quick overview of the new and previous amounts required for the Blocked Account:

Having the correct Blocked Account amount is crucial for a smooth visa process. With the requirement remaining at €992 per month (€11,904 per year) for 2026, planning ahead ensures you avoid any last-minute complications.

Ready to open your Blocked Account? Get started with the Expatrio Value Package today.

If you have any questions or need assistance, contact Expatrio Customer Support. Our Help Center also has very useful information. We are ready and waiting to help you on your journey to Germany!

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