The German blocked account (Sperrkonto) is mandatory for all non-EU students applying for a German student visa. It proves to the German Embassy that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your studies. This guide explains exactly how to open one from Nepal in 2026.
The German blocked account (Sperrkonto) is mandatory for all non-EU students applying for a German student visa. It proves to the German Embassy that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your studies. This guide explains exactly how to open one from Nepal in 2026.
What Is a Blocked Account?
A Sperrkonto (blocked account) is a special German bank account where you deposit a set amount of money that is then “blocked” — you cannot withdraw more than a monthly allowance (EUR 934/month as of 2024/25) once in Germany. The full amount — EUR 11,208 — must be deposited before your visa application. The account demonstrates financial self-sufficiency to the German Embassy.
Required Amount in 2026
The required blocked account amount is updated each year based on the “BAföG Bedarfssatz” (student financial need calculation). For 2025/26: EUR 11,208 (EUR 934 × 12 months). In Nepali rupees at current rates: approximately NPR 14–15 lakh. This amount covers living expenses only — tuition is separate (though most German public universities have near-zero tuition).
Best Blocked Account Providers for Nepali Students
| Provider | Setup Fee | Processing Time | Recommended? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fintiba | EUR 89 one-time | 2–5 business days | ✅ Most popular for international students |
| Deutsche Bank | EUR 0 | 3–7 business days | ✅ Traditional bank option |
| Expatrio | EUR 89 one-time | 2–5 business days | ✅ Bundles health insurance |
| Coracle | EUR 79 one-time | 2–5 business days | ✅ Newer option, competitive fees |
Step-by-Step: Opening Fintiba from Nepal
- Register at fintiba.com with your email address
- Complete identity verification (video KYC or document upload)
- Receive your Fintiba IBAN (German bank account number)
- Transfer EUR 11,208 + EUR 89 service fee (total ~EUR 11,297) to the Fintiba account via international wire transfer from your Nepali bank
- Fintiba confirms receipt and sends you a blocking confirmation document (typically within 1–2 business days)
- Include this blocking confirmation in your visa application
Transferring Money from Nepal to Fintiba
Transfer via your Nepali bank’s foreign currency transaction service. NRB allows students to transfer foreign exchange for education purposes — present your university admission letter and fee invoice to your bank. Standard Chartered Nepal, Nabil Bank, and Himalayan Bank commonly handle Germany education transfers. SWIFT transfer fees: NPR 2,000–3,500. Allow 3–7 business days for the transfer to clear.
Can I use a Nepali bank account instead of a blocked account for Germany visa?
No. The German Embassy specifically requires a German blocked account (Sperrkonto). A Nepali bank statement alone is not sufficient — you must show the EUR 11,208 has been transferred to a recognized German blocked account provider.
What happens to my blocked account money if my visa is refused?
Most blocked account providers (Fintiba, Expatrio, Coracle) will refund your blocked amount if your visa is refused, minus their service fee. Confirm the refund policy before opening the account.
Do I need to keep the money blocked for my entire study period?
No. Once in Germany, you extend your residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel) annually. After your first year, the blocked account requirement typically only applies for the initial visa. Once enrolled and generating part-time income, the monthly EUR 934 withdrawal covers basic expenses.
- Blocked account info (Study in Germany) (www.study-in-germany.de)
- Fintiba blocked account (fintiba.com)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a Nepali bank account instead of a blocked account for Germany visa?
No. The German Embassy specifically requires a German blocked account (Sperrkonto). A Nepali bank statement alone is not sufficient — you must show the EUR 11,208 has been transferred to a recognized German blocked account provider.
What happens to my blocked account money if my visa is refused?
Most blocked account providers (Fintiba, Expatrio, Coracle) will refund your blocked amount if your visa is refused, minus their service fee. Confirm the refund policy before opening the account.
Do I need to keep the money blocked for my entire study period?
No. Once in Germany, you extend your residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel) annually. After your first year, the blocked account requirement typically only applies for the initial visa. Once enrolled and generating part-time income, the monthly EUR 934 withdrawal covers basic expenses.
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