The German blocked account, explained

What it is and why it's required

The blocked account holds roughly one year of living costs, released to you in equal monthly instalments once you're in Germany. It satisfies the proof-of-funds rule without requiring you to hand money to anyone — you keep it, you just can't spend it all at once.

Confirm the current annual figure and monthly release amount on the official source linked on the Germany pages, as they are revised periodically.

Which providers embassies accept

German missions accept blocked accounts from recognised, BaFin-aware providers. The well-known options bundle the account with the paperwork embassies expect, which is why most applicants use a provider rather than a traditional bank.

• Choose a provider explicitly accepted by your German mission.
• Some bundle health insurance with the blocked account — convenient, but check the cover meets the visa rule.
• Keep the opening confirmation and funding receipt for your visa file.

Steps to open and fund it

Open the account online, transfer the annual minimum (use a low-FX transfer method to avoid losing money to bank margins), receive the confirmation, and include it in your application. After arrival, you activate monthly withdrawals once you have a German address and local bank account.