Blocked Account Amounts for Germany Visas
Blocked Account Amounts for Germany Visas: A Comprehensive Guide
Germany is one of the most popular destinations for students and professionals alike, with its outstanding universities, thriving economy, and a rich cultural heritage. But before you can plan your travel to Germany, you need to provide proof of sufficient financial resources to sustain yourself during your stay. One of the most common ways to do this is by obtaining a blocked account, which comes with a specific amount of money you must deposit to ensure that you have enough funds for living expenses. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at blocked account amounts for Germany visas, including what they are, how they work, the steps you need to take to open a blocked account, and FAQs.
What is a Blocked Account?
A blocked account is a type of bank account where the account holder can’t withdraw the full balance all at once. The funds in this account can only be used for certain purposes, such as living expenses, tuition fees, and health insurance.
When applying for a student visa, you’ll need to provide proof that you have sufficient funds to cover your living expenses in Germany. A blocked account allows you to do this easily and with the assurance that you won’t overspend in the early days of your stay.
How much money do I need to deposit into a Blocked Account?
The minimum amount of money you need to deposit into a blocked account varies depending on the type of visa you’re applying for and the duration of your stay in Germany.
For students, you need to provide evidence of having a minimum of 10,236 EUR. This includes a lump sum of 8,640 EUR that covers living expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and general expenses for one year.
An additional 1,596 EUR is needed for health insurance, which is mandatory for all students in Germany.
For Jobseeker Visa, a minimum of 8,640 EUR is required in addition to health insurance, which is the same for students at 1,596 EUR.
In case you plan to apply for a family reunion visa, the minimum amount required for a family of two is 10,332 EUR, and for each accompanying member, an additional amount of 4,664 EUR is required.
It’s also important to note that these amounts are subject to change. You should always check with the embassy or consulate of your destination to ensure that you have the most up-to-date information.
How does a Blocked Account work?
When you open a blocked account, you must deposit the required amount into the account. This money cannot be withdrawn entirely, and you’ll only be able to access a certain amount each month. The maximum amount you can withdraw each month is limited to 853 EUR, which covers your monthly average living costs in Germany.
Once you arrive in Germany and start your studies or work, you’ll need to provide a statement from your blocked account that indicates that you have enough funds to cover your expenses for the duration of your stay.
When should I open a Blocked Account?
It’s best to open a blocked account as soon as possible, as it can take some time to process. Also, the sooner you deposit funds into the account, the sooner you’ll be able to start accessing your monthly allowance.
It’s essential to note that opening a blocked account is not the only financial means of proof. You can choose to open one or have other financial resources such as scholarships, salary statements, or a letter of sponsorship to prove your financial stability in Germany. Consult with the German Embassy of your destination before submitting your application to know the acceptable means of proof.
How do I open a Blocked Account?
To open a blocked account for a German visa, you’ll need to follow these steps:
1. Choose a financial institution: Choose a German bank that provides blocked accounts for international students and professionals.
2. Gather necessary documents: You’ll need to gather necessary documents such as a valid passport, Visa application, and a certificate of Admission from a German university or institution or job offer letter to submit with your application.
3. Submit the application: Submit your application with all the necessary documents. You may be required to pay an administrative fee for opening the account.
4. Deposit the required amount: After your application has been accepted, you’ll need to deposit the required amount into your account.
5. Wait for confirmation: Once your account has been approved and funds deposited, wait for confirmation from the financial institution.
FAQs
1. Can I use the funds in the blocked account for other purposes besides living expenses?
No, the funds in the blocked account can only be used for specific purposes such as living expenses, tuition fees, and health insurance.
2. Can I withdraw the full amount from the blocked account at once?
No, you can only withdraw a limited amount each month, which is limited to 853 EUR.
3. Is a blocked account the only means of financial proof for a German visa?
No, a blocked account is not the only means of financial proof. You can also use other financial resources such as scholarships, salary statements, or a letter of sponsorship to prove your financial stability in Germany.
4. Can I open a blocked account from my home country?
Yes, you can open a blocked account from your home country before applying for a German visa.
5. How long does it take for the blocked account to be processed?
It varies depending on the institution you choose, but the standard processing time is approximately one to two weeks.
Conclusion
In conclusion, having a blocked account is an essential requirement when applying for a Germany visa, as it provides proof of financial stability during your stay. The minimum amount required varies depending on the type of visa you’re applying for, and it’s best to open a blocked account as soon as possible to allow for enough processing time. Remember to consult with the embassy or consulate of your destination before submitting your visa application so that you are aware of the acceptable financial proof methods.