Open a Blocked Account in Germany

Process of Opening a Blocked Account

Before starting the process of opening a blocked account, you should research banks that offer this service. Many banks in Germany provide blocked accounts for international students, including well-known banks like Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank, and Sparkasse. Each bank has different requirements and fees. At EI Group, we guide and support you through the process of opening a blocked account.

Step 1: Prepare the Necessary Documents
Before arriving in Germany, you will need the following documents:

• Passport: Original and photocopy.
• Admission letter: From a German university or enrollment confirmation.
• Proof of address: If you already have an address in Germany, this can be a rental contract or residence registration certificate.
• Phone number and email: For contact with the bank.

Step 2: Choose a Bank
Research and select a suitable bank. Popular options for blocked accounts include:

• Deutsche Bank
• Commerzbank
• Sparkasse
• Online banks like N26 (if they offer blocked account services)

Step 3: Open an Account from Vietnam (if available)
Some banks may allow you to apply for an account remotely. You can:

• Contact the bank to learn about the specific process.
• Complete and send the necessary documents to the bank.

Step 4: Activate the Account in Germany
Once you arrive in Germany, follow these steps:

• Visit a bank branch: Schedule an appointment if necessary.
• Fill out the application form: Bank staff will guide you through the process.
• Make the initial deposit: You need to deposit a minimum of €10,332 into the blocked account. This amount will be held and can only be accessed monthly (€861).

Step 5: Receive Account Confirmation
After completing the process, the bank will issue a blocked account confirmation. This document is essential for submitting your visa application.

Step 6: Submit Your Visa Application
Use the blocked account confirmation and other required documents to apply for your visa at the German Embassy or Consulate in Vietnam.

Costs Associated with the Blocked Account

The cost of opening and maintaining a blocked account is an important factor to consider. Banks may charge different fees based on their policies.

Account Opening Fee: The blocked account opening fee generally ranges from €110 to €150. Research the policies of each bank and compare them to choose one that suits your financial situation.

Monthly Account Maintenance Fee: While specific information on monthly maintenance fees is not provided here, it is recommended to contact the bank directly for detailed cost information. Some banks may waive fees for the first month, but thereafter, monthly maintenance fees may apply.

The process of opening a blocked account in Germany is relatively straightforward but requires careful preparation and adherence to the necessary steps.

Calculating the Required Amount for a Blocked Account for Vocational Training in Germany

When students complete their visa application to join a vocational training program in Germany, there are two scenarios:

1. If the student is in Vietnam with an A2 German certificate, the blocked account should cover:
   • Living expenses in Germany for the first 6 months while studying B1 in Germany.
   • Additional funds to supplement the internship salary if it is below €939 per month.

   If the student has no other verified income or exemption documents, they will need to deposit enough funds in the blocked account to cover these two items.

   Note: Tuition fees for the B1 course can be paid directly to the B1 school in Germany and are not required in the blocked account.

2. If the student has a B1 German certificate while in Vietnam, they can immediately start working and earning a salary during the internship in Germany. In this case:
   • If the internship salary is higher than €939 per month, the student does not need a blocked account.
   • If the internship salary is below €939 per month, the student must open a blocked account and deposit the difference between €939 and their salary, multiplied by 36 months.

Calculating the Required Amount for a Blocked Account for College-Level Vocational Training in Germany

• Amount (1) = Living expenses in Germany for 6 months (if studying B1 in Germany; not required if B1 was completed in Vietnam).
• Amount (2) = Additional funds to supplement the internship salary if the monthly internship salary is below €939.

According to the German Embassy in Vietnam’s regulation on October 9, 2020, the minimum internship salary during vocational training is set at €939. If a student’s internship salary is below €939 per month, they MUST open a blocked account and deposit the amount calculated as follows: (€939 – monthly salary) x 36 months.

Example:

• Case 1: If pursuing Nursing, the internship salary is:
  • Year 1: €1,000; Year 2: €1,100; Year 3: €1,200. Since the salary in all three years is above €939 per month, no additional funds need to be added to the blocked account per the German Embassy’s requirements. => No blocked account required.
• Case 2: If pursuing Hospitality, the internship salary is:
  • Year 1: €730; Year 2: €850; Year 3: €940. Compared to the required minimum salary of €939:
    • Year 1 shortfall: €209 x 12 months = €2,508
    • Year 2 shortfall: €89 x 12 months = €1,068
    • Year 3: no shortfall
  • => Total salary shortfall is €3,580, meaning the required amount for the blocked account is €3,580.

Conclusion
Opening a blocked account for studying in Germany is an essential step to prove your financial capability when applying for a visa. From document preparation to the account-opening process, each step requires thorough attention to avoid unnecessary issues.

We hope this guide has provided you with a clearer understanding of the blocked account, the opening process, and key considerations for a smooth experience. Prepare well to ensure a successful and fulfilling study journey in Germany!

EI GROUP – “The First Choice for a New Life”