Dreaming of studying in Germany? From world-class universities to affordable education, it’s an exciting journey—until you hit the visa requirements! One key requirement that often confuses students is the minimum bank balance required for a German student visa. It’s not just about proving you can pay tuition; Germany wants to ensure you can comfortably cover your living expenses too.
So, how much money do you really need in your bank account? And what’s the deal with blocked accounts? Don’t worry—we’ve got all the answers! In this blog, we’ll break down the minimum bank balance required for a German student visa, how to maintain it, and the best ways to fund your studies in Germany without stress. Let’s dive in!
Table of contents
- Minimum Bank Balance Required for a German Student Visa
- Who Needs to Show the Minimum Bank Balance Required for a German Student Visa?
- Why is a Minimum Bank Balance Required for a German Student Visa?
- Financial Documents to Prove Minimum Bank Balance Required for a German Student Visa
- How Long Does it Take to Process a German Student Visa?
- FAQs
Minimum Bank Balance Required for a German Student Visa
Starting from September 2024, the minimum bank balance required for a German student visa is EUR 11,904 for 12 months, or EUR 992 a month. This amount must be deposited in a German blocked account (Sperrkonto) before applying for the visa.
The minimum bank balance is based on the BAföG rate, Germany’s financial aid program for international students. The German government sets this limit to ensure students have enough funds to cover their living expenses for one year.
A blocked account means you can only withdraw EUR 992 per month, ensuring you have a steady flow of money for rent, food, and daily expenses. Without proof of the minimum bank balance required for a German student visa, your visa application may be rejected.
Who Needs to Show the Minimum Bank Balance Required for a German Student Visa?
If you’re planning to study in Germany, you might need to prove that you have enough money to support yourself—this is called “Finanzierungsnachweis” or proof of financial resources. Whether or not you need to show this depends on your nationality.
- EU/EEA Citizens (including Liechtenstein, Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland): No need to show financial proof! You can study in Germany without a blocked account.
- Non-EU Citizens (who need a visa to enter Germany): Must provide financial proof when applying for a student visa.
- Citizens of Andorra, Australia, Brazil, Canada, El Salvador, Honduras, Israel, Japan, Monaco, San Marino, New Zealand, South Korea, the UK, and the USA: No financial proof is needed for the visa but is required for the residence permit after arriving in Germany.
So, if you’re from a non-EU country and need a visa, you must meet the minimum bank balance required for a German student visa by depositing EUR 11,904 in a blocked account before applying. This ensures you can cover your living expenses while studying in Germany!
Also Read: Check out our blog on why students should choose the Central Bank of Germany for their Student Account.
Why is a Minimum Bank Balance Required for a German Student Visa?
The minimum bank balance required for a German student visa ensures that international students can cover their living expenses without financial hardship. Germany requires proof of funds to confirm that students can afford essentials like rent, food, health insurance, and daily costs while studying.
By depositing EUR 11,904 in a blocked account, students show they have enough money to sustain themselves for a year.
This prevents financial struggles and ensures that students focus on their education instead of worrying about expenses. Without meeting the minimum bank balance required for a German student visa, the application may be rejected.
Also Read: Check out top banks in Germany that cater specifically to students, offering a range of services to make their banking stress-free.
Financial Documents to Prove Minimum Bank Balance Required for a German Student Visa
To get a German student visa, you must show proof that you can cover your expenses. Here are the main ways to prove the minimum bank balance required for a German student visa:
1. Blocked Account (Sperrkonto)
A blocked account is the most common way to prove financial resources. You must deposit EUR 11,904 and you can withdraw up to EUR 992 per month once in Germany. Providers like Expatrio offer easy online applications.
2. Proof of Parental Income
If your parents have sufficient income, you can submit their bank statements (last 3 months) or payslips as proof. However, acceptance depends on the German embassy or Foreigner’s Office in your country.
3. Scholarship Certificate
A scholarship from a recognized provider (e.g., DAAD Scholarships or Erasmus+) can serve as proof. If it covers less than EUR 992 per month, you must show additional funds to meet the minimum bank balance required for a German student visa.
4. Bank Guarantee (Bankbürgschaft)
Some students use a bank guarantee as proof. This means a bank agrees to cover your financial obligations during your studies. This can include an education loan for studying in Germany.
5. Sponsorship from a German Resident
A permanent resident in Germany (usually a family member) can act as a guarantor by providing a Declaration of Commitment (Verpflichtungserklärung) from the immigration office. This means they take full financial responsibility for you.
Choose the option that suits you best to meet the minimum bank balance required for a German student visa and ensure a smooth visa process!
How Long Does it Take to Process a German Student Visa?
The processing time for a German student visa usually ranges from 6 to 12 weeks. However, it can take longer depending on your home country, the workload of the German embassy/ consulate, and whether all required documents—including the minimum bank balance required for a German student visa—are correctly submitted.
This was all about the minimum bank balance required for a German student visa. Whether you’re saving up, applying for a loan, or preparing parental financial documents, ensure you have everything ready before your visa appointment.
Meeting this requirement is crucial for a smooth application process and a hassle-free start to your studies in Germany. Check out some of the FAQs below-
FAQs
Starting September 2024 onward, the minimum bank balance required for a German student visa is EUR 11,904. This amount must be deposited in a blocked account before applying for the visa.
Germany requires students to prove they can cover living expenses like rent, food, and health insurance. The minimum bank balance required for a German student visa ensures financial stability throughout the first year of study.
You can prove financial resources through a blocked account, parental income statements, a scholarship, a bank guarantee, or a sponsorship from a German resident.
Visa requirements and fees may change. Always check the latest updates on the official German embassy or consulate website in your country.
To apply for a German student visa, you must have:
– A university admission letter
– Proof of the minimum bank balance required for a German student visa
– Valid health insurance
– A valid passport
Following are the types of German student visas-
– Student Visa (for full-time degree programs)
– Student Applicant Visa (for those still applying or awaiting admission)
– Language Course Visa (for students enrolled in German language courses)
Key requirements include:
– University admission letter
– Proof of the minimum bank balance required for a German student visa
– Health insurance
– Visa application form
– Passport-size photos
– Statement of purpose
The German student visa application fee is EUR 75, which must be paid at the time of application.
– Get admission from a German university.
– Open a blocked account and deposit the minimum bank balance required for a German student visa.
– Gather all required documents.
– Book a visa appointment at the German embassy.
– Attend the interview and submit documents.
– Wait for visa approval.
Processing typically takes 6 to 12 weeks, but it can vary based on the embassy and application completeness.
You can apply at the German embassy or consulate in your home country.
Apply at least 3-6 months before your course starts to allow enough processing time.
You must apply in person at your country’s German embassy or consulate, submit the required documents, and attend a visa interview.
To learn more about education loans, the best bank accounts for students, forex, banking experience for global students, or international money transfers, reach out to our experts at 1800572126 to help ease your experience with studying abroad.
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