Best Blocked Account Providers for International Students in Germany

What is a Blocked Account?

A blocked account is a German bank account with a special feature – it restricts access to the funds. While you deposit a certain amount of money into the account, you cannot withdraw all of it at once. Instead, you can only access a fixed amount of money each month, ensuring that you have enough funds for living expenses during your time in Germany.

This is a mandatory requirement for international students applying for a German student visa or residence permit. The German authorities require proof that you can financially support yourself while living in the country. Having a blocked account is a way to demonstrate that you meet the minimum financial requirement for students.

Why Do You Need a Blocked Account?

Germany is known for its high-quality education, and many international students flock to the country for university programs. However, the German government requires students to show they have enough money to cover their living expenses before issuing a visa.

As of 2025, the financial requirement for international students is approximately €11,904 per year, which is roughly €992 per month. This amount must be deposited into the blocked account to ensure that you have sufficient funds.

Expatrio: Simplified and Efficient Solution

Expatrio is one of the most popular platforms for opening a blocked account in Germany. It’s designed specifically for international students and expats, offering a simple, user-friendly service to help you get your blocked account sorted quickly. Expatrio also provides a complete package with health insurance, student visa services, and other necessary assistance.

• How It Works: You deposit the required amount into your blocked account. After approval, you can withdraw a fixed amount each month, which meets the German government’s requirements.

Expatrio makes the process easier by handling the paperwork and ensuring that your account complies with all legal requirements.

Coracle: Another Trusted Blocked Account Provider

Coracle is another reliable provider for setting up a blocked account. They offer a service that is both secure and affordable, tailored for students and expats who are new to Germany.

• How It Works: Similar to Expatrio, Coracle offers an online application for your blocked account. You can fund your account remotely, and once the process is complete, you can access the funds in monthly installments.

Coracle is another trusted platform known for its hassle-free approach to setting up a blocked account, making it a great choice for students.

Fintiba: A Popular Option for Students

Fintiba is another popular provider for opening a blocked account in Germany, offering flexible solutions for international students. Fintiba’s service is particularly recognized for its ease of use, especially for students outside Germany looking to set up their blocked account.

• How It Works: Fintiba allows you to open your blocked account online before you even arrive in Germany. You can make the necessary deposit and receive a confirmation of your blocked account that you can present when applying for your visa.

Fintiba is a great option for international students who want to arrange their blocked account before arriving in Germany, and it offers customer service in several languages to make the process even easier.

Can You Use Other Bank Accounts for the Blocked Account?

While Expatrio, Coracle, and Fintiba are the go-to providers for blocked accounts, it's worth noting that there are other options. You can technically open a blocked account with a traditional bank in Germany. However, it’s important to note that not all banks will offer this service to international students.

Some banks like Deutsche Bank, DZ Bank, and Fintiba offer blocked account services. However, the process is often more complicated and can involve physical visits to the bank. Moreover, it might not be as convenient or quick as using specialized services like Expatrio, Coracle, or Fintiba, which are specifically designed for international students and expats.

Can You Open a Blocked Account from Outside Germany?

Yes! If you are coming from a country outside of Germany, you can still open a blocked account before arriving in Germany. Some banks in your home country might offer this facility, allowing you to open a blocked account from abroad. This can save you time and effort, as you will have all the necessary documentation ready for your visa application.

However, it's important to do your own thorough research before choosing a bank or service, as not all providers may be available in every country, and the terms and conditions may vary.

Having the blocked account set up before you arrive in Germany can also make the visa application process smoother, as you will be able to provide proof of financial stability right away.

Conclusion

A blocked account is a crucial financial step for any student or expat coming to Germany. It ensures that you can meet the financial requirements set by the government for your visa or residence permit. Providers like Expatrio, Coracle, and Fintiba make the process smooth and easy, especially for those who want a quick and hassle-free experience. While other traditional German banks may offer blocked accounts, the specialized services are often the most convenient choice for students looking to manage their finances in Germany.

If you're planning your journey to Germany, make sure to check out the blocked account options available to you and choose the one that best fits your needs. Whether you choose Expatrio, Coracle, Fintiba, or another provider, setting up a blocked account is a vital step towards your success in Germany!