If you are applying for a German student visa from India, one question comes up before almost everything else: how much money do I have to show, and how? For most students the answer is a blocked account (Sperrkonto). This Germany blocked account 2026 guide explains the current amount, how the account works, the other ways the German authorities accept as proof of funds, and the mistakes that delay visa applications.
Quick answer
A blocked account is a special bank account in Germany that holds the money you need for your living costs. You deposit the required amount before you apply for your visa and receive a confirmation from the provider, which you submit with your application. The bank releases only a fixed monthly amount once you have arrived in Germany, which is how the authorities know you can support yourself.
| Item | Official figure |
|---|---|
| Monthly amount | EUR 992 |
| Yearly amount (12 months) | EUR 11,904 |
| Valid from | 1 January 2025 (still the latest figure on the DAAD page checked on 6 Oct 2026) |
| Who sets it | The amount is based on the BAföG rate and applied by German missions to visa applications |
The amount can be revised, so check the website of the German embassy or consulate that handles your application, or the Consular Services Portal, before you transfer funds. Your total in INR depends on the exchange rate on the day you transfer, so leave a margin for currency movement and provider fees.
The Federal Foreign Office lists these accepted ways to show that your studies are financed:
Which one is best for you depends on your family finances and your visa office, so ask your embassy which proof it prefers before you decide.
Pro tip
Applying for a German degree? Compare cities and courses with our guide to the best European countries for Indian students and read about scholarships for Indian students – a scholarship can replace part of the funding proof.
| Option | How it works | Think about |
|---|---|---|
| Blocked account | You deposit the required amount in Germany and submit the provider’s confirmation | The money is locked until you enter Germany and is released monthly |
| Parents’ income | You show your parents’ income and financial circumstances | The visa office assesses the documents, and the details depend on the mission |
| Formal obligation letter | A person with sufficient assets or income signs a declaration under Sections 66-68 of the Residence Act | Your guarantor takes on legal responsibility |
| Bank guarantee | An annually renewable guarantee deposited at a bank in Germany | It has to be renewed every year |
| Scholarship | Funding from public funds or a recognised organisation | The German funding body must have arranged the link to your university |
The blocked account shows the minimum living-cost proof. It does not replace a full budget. DAAD explains that studying in Germany also involves a semester contribution to the university and living costs such as accommodation, food and health insurance. As an example, DAAD lists a total semester contribution of EUR 304.25 at the University of Cologne for the 2024/25 winter semester, which included a semester ticket of EUR 176.40. Your own university will publish its figure.
The German authorities describe the blocked account as one that lets you withdraw only a set amount each month – currently EUR 992 for students. So a full year of EUR 11,904 is paid out as 12 monthly payments of EUR 992 (12 x 992 = 11,904). The money cannot be touched before you enter Germany, which is why the account is accepted as proof that you can support yourself.
| Myth | The reality |
|---|---|
| “A blocked account is compulsory.” | No. Parents’ income, a formal obligation letter, a bank guarantee or a recognised scholarship can also prove your funding. |
| “It pays my tuition.” | No. It is a living-cost proof. Semester contributions and any tuition are separate costs. |
| “I can use the money before I fly.” | No. The funds cannot be accessed until you have entered Germany. |
| “The amount never changes.” | It can be revised. DAAD notes the current figure applies from 1 January 2025, so always check the latest amount. |
The amount in force is EUR 992 per month, which is EUR 11,904 for 12 months. DAAD states it applies from 1 January 2025 and it was still the latest official figure when this guide was checked. Confirm with your embassy before you transfer money.
No. The Federal Foreign Office also accepts parents’ income, a formal obligation letter, an annually renewable bank guarantee or a recognised scholarship. A blocked account is simply the most common choice for students from India.
No. The money cannot be accessed until you enter Germany, and after activation the bank pays out only the fixed monthly amount.
No. It is proof of money for living costs. Public universities in Germany usually charge a semester contribution, and tuition rules differ by university and state, so budget for them separately.
On the website of the German embassy or consulate handling your visa, in the Consular Services Portal and on the DAAD page on costs of education and living.
Facts on this page were checked against the official sources listed at the end on 6 October 2026. Immigration rules, fees and thresholds change often, so confirm the current figure on the official site before you apply.
Planning to study in Germany? Our study in Germany visa consultants help you choose a course, prepare the funding proof and book your visa appointment. Book a free consultation or call +91 95055 15154. Prefer vocational training? See our Germany Ausbildung visa page.
