Understanding Blocked Account Amounts for German Visas
One of the most important requirements for obtaining a German visa is opening a blocked account. A blocked account is a type of bank account that holds a certain amount of money for a specific period, and it cannot be accessed until the end of that period. The purpose of a blocked account is to ensure that the visa applicant has enough funds to cover their expenses during their stay in Germany.
In this article, we will discuss the importance of a blocked account, the minimum amount required, and other crucial information that visa applicants need to know.
Why is a Blocked Account Important?
A blocked account is essential for any international student or visitor who intends to reside in Germany for a period of more than 90 days. It serves as proof that the visa applicant has sufficient funds to sustain themselves during their stay in Germany, without having to seek financial aid from the German government or any other social welfare organization.
The German government highly values self-sufficiency and financially independent individuals. Therefore, applicants are required to demonstrate that they can take care of themselves and have enough money to pay for their healthcare, tuition fees, accommodation, and other personal expenses while in Germany.
How much Money Should be in a Blocked Account?
The amount of money to be deposited in a blocked account varies depending on the applicant’s purpose in Germany. International students require more money than tourists or visitors because they need to pay for their tuition fees, rent, and other expenses. The amount of money required also varies depending on the duration of stay.
For students, the minimum amount varies depending on the city of residence. For instance, an international student in Berlin would be required to deposit €10,236, while an international student in Munich would need to deposit €10,236. This amount covers the applicant’s living expenses for a period of twelve months.
For job seekers, the minimum amount is €8,640, which should cover their living expenses for six months. Tourists require less money, with the minimum amount set at €892, which should cover their living expenses for three months.
It is important to note that these amounts are revised annually and are subject to change. Therefore, visa applicants should always check the current requirements before applying for a visa.
How to Open a Blocked Account?
Opening a blocked account is a relatively straightforward process. Applicants can choose from several banks that offer these accounts like Deutsche Bank, Sparkasse, and Fintiba. The applicant needs to fill in an application form, provide the necessary documents and deposit the required amount. The bank will then issue a confirmation letter, which the applicant needs to submit when applying for a German visa.
FAQs about Blocked Accounts
1. Can I withdraw money from my blocked account while in Germany?
No, you cannot withdraw money from a blocked account while still in Germany. The account is meant to hold the funds for the duration of the stay, and the applicant can only access the funds at the end of that period.
2. Can I use my blocked account for tuition fees?
Yes, international students can use their blocked account to pay for their tuition fees. However, the bank could charge additional fees to transfer the money to the university’s account.
3. How long does it take to open a blocked account?
The period to open a blocked account varies depending on the bank and the mode of application. Online applications take a shorter time in comparison to those done physically. On average, it takes between four to six weeks to open a blocked account.
4. Can I use a guarantor instead of opening a blocked account?
No, the German government requires that all visa applicants demonstrate that they have sufficient funds. Therefore, a blocked account is only a sure way to prove that one has enough funds to cover their stay in Germany.
5. What happens if I don’t have enough money in my blocked account?
If an applicant does not have enough money in their blocked account, their visa application may be rejected. The German government insists that the applicant demonstrates that they can take care of themselves during their stay in the country.
Conclusion
A blocked account is an essential part of the German visa application. It serves as proof that the applicant has enough funds to cover their stay in the country and is financially independent. The minimum amount required varies depending on the purpose and duration of stay. Applicants need to make sure that they have the right amount of money in their account to improve their chances of obtaining a German visa.