Your German Bank Account – The Key to Everyday Life
Almost nothing works in Germany without a German bank account: transferring rent, paying the semester fee, receiving salary from a part-time job, signing a mobile phone contract. StudiStep helps you open the right accounts – the blocked account for your visa and the current account for your everyday life.
Blocked account: Mandatory for your visa
Students from non-EU countries must prove that they can finance their living costs in Germany. A blocked account is required for this. As of the winter semester 2024/25, the minimum amount is 11.904 euros (992 euros per month x 12 months). You must deposit this amount before applying for your visa.
StudiStep guides you through the entire process: from choosing the right provider, through opening the account (often possible online), to transferring the blocked amount. You usually receive the blocked-account confirmation within 24–48 hours after the funds arrive.
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Key figures 2024/25
The key amounts and deadlines around the blocked account and current account.
Blocked amount
11.904 euros (992 euros/month)
Account opening
Online within 24–48 hours
Opening fee
Approx. 50–150 euros depending on provider
Transfer
3–5 business days internationally
Monthly release
Max. 992 euros from the blocked account
Current account
For everyday use, often free
Which accounts do you need?
For studying in Germany, you generally need two different accounts.
Blocked Account
Mandatory for the visa (non-EU). The amount (11.904 euros) is blocked and released monthly (992 euros). Open online before entering the country. Fee: approx. 50–150 euros.
Current Account
For everyday payments: rent, shopping, salary, standing orders. You receive a Girocard (EC card). Many banks offer free accounts for students under 30.
Required documents
You should have these documents ready for the account opening.
Passport
Valid passport
Letter of admission
Notification from your higher education institution
Registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung)
For the current account after arrival
How to open your blocked account with StudiStep
5 steps to the blocked-account confirmation for your visa.
1. Prepare documents
Passport, admission letter
2. Open account online
We guide you through the process
3. Transfer money
11.904 euros to the blocked account
4. Blocked-account confirmation
For the visa application
5. Open a current account
After arriving in Germany
Ready for your studies in Germany?
Send us your no-obligation inquiry — we will guide you to your study place.