
Opening and sending money to a German Blocked Account is the key requirement that every student heading to Germany must complete. But what’s the safest, cheapest, and fastest way to do it? This blog walks you through the answers backed by expert insights from ExTravelMoney’s international educational transfers team.
Also Read: Top 7 Currency Exchange Tips for Students Travelling Abroad
What is Blocked Account and How Does It Work
A Blocked Account is a bank account that international students in Germany must open to demonstrate they have sufficient funds for living expenses as part of the student visa process.
To open a blocked account, you must deposit a minimum annual amount of €11,904 as specified by German authorities. After the deposit, you receive a Blocking Confirmation Letter, required for your visa appointment.
Upon arriving in Germany, the account releases a fixed monthly amount of €992 into your regular bank account. You cannot withdraw the entire balance at once as it remains blocked, ensuring you have a steady monthly income during your study period.
Best German Blocked Account Providers
While all providers serve the same purpose, each one offers unique features, fees, and processing speeds. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most trusted names in the market.
1. Expatrio
Expatrio is one of the most popular choices among Indian students because of its fast processing, low fees, and smooth online setup. They provide a complete package that includes the blocked account, health insurance, and travel insurance, which is perfect for students who want everything handled in one place.
2. Fintiba
Fintiba is widely recognised as the first fully digital blocked account provider, backed by Sutor Bank. Their mobile app and intuitive dashboard make it easy to track your deposit, receive alerts, and manage your documents.
3. Coracle
Coracle is another student-friendly option that often attracts attention for its straightforward process and competitive pricing. They’re known for having minimal hassle in KYC verification and fast customer support response times.
| Service Provider | One-Time Set-up Fee | Monthly Fee | Buffer Amount (Balance Refunded) | Blocked Amount | Total Blocked Amount | Account Opening Time |
| Coracle | €99 | Nil | €80 | €992*12 months = €11,904 | €12,083 | 2 – 24Hrs |
| Coracle Prime (Includes Free Travel Insurance for 365 days + Paid Health Insurance) | €59 | Health Insurance starts from;€139.11 per month*12 = €1438.92 | €80 | €992*12 months = €11,904 | €13,712.32 | 2 – 24Hrs |
| Expatrio | €89 | €5*12 months = €60 | €100 | €992*12 months = €11,904 | €12,153 | 24 Hrs |
| Expatrio Value Package (Includes Free Incoming Travel Insurance for 92 days + Paid Health Insurance + ISIC Card) | €89 | €5*12 months = €60 Health Insurance starts from;€119.91 per month*12 = €1438.92 | €100 | €992*12 months = €11,904 | €13,591.92 | 24 Hrs |
| Fintiba | €89 | €4.90*12 months = €58.8 | €100 | €992*12 months = €11,904 | €12,151.80 | 24 Hrs |
Also Read: How to Choose the Best Forex Card for Students Travelling Abroad
Ways to Send Money to a German Blocked Account
Choosing the right service provider can save you both time and money. Here are the most reliable options you can try;
1. Indian Banks
Major banks such as SBI, HDFC, ICICI, and Axis allow international remittances directly from your Indian bank account in the respective bank branch or via net banking. Even though banks are trusted and regulated, they charge higher exchange rate margins and additional fees.
2. RBI-Authorised Money Changers / AD-II Agents
These agents usually offer better exchange rates, lower charges, and faster processing compared to banks. These money changers are best for students looking to save money on exchange rates and fees. They are available for both online and offline money transfer services.
3. Online Forex Marketplaces
Platforms like ExTravelMoney are online forex aggregators that compare rates across banks and AD-II agents, letting you choose the cheapest and quickest option. The benefits are that you get the lowest rates, transparent fees, full documentation support, and doorstep service.
How to Open a Blocked Account and Send Money from India
You can open a Blocked Account online from India effortlessly using ExTravelMoney by following these simple steps.
- Register on our website by providing your name and email, and choose your preferred Blocked Account Provider.
- Our Blocked Account expert will contact you shortly and take care of the account opening process on your behalf.
- Upon successful Blocked Account opening, you will receive the Blocked Account Opening Letter via email with the IBAN and account details for transferring the Blocked amount.
- Use ExTravelMoney’s outward remittance portal to choose the bank or AD II agent offering the best deal and transfer the money to your Blocked Account from the student’s or parent’s Indian savings account.
- The funds shall reach your Blocked Account within 24-48 working hours.
- Once the money gets deposited in your Blocked Account, you’ll receive the Blocking Confirmation, which you can use to apply for your German Student Visa.
Processing Time Taken
Typically, the Blocked account opening varies according to the service provider. However, the process gets completed in 24 hours.
Once you open an account, it takes approximately 24 to 48 working hours to transfer money to a German Blocked Account.
Documents Required to Open a Blocked Account
- PAN card (linked with Aadhaar)
- Passport
- University Acceptance Letter
Documents Required to Send Money to a Blocked Account
- Passport of the student
- Pan Card of the sender (linked with Aadhaar)
- University Acceptance Letter
- Blocked Account Opening Letter
From choosing a Blocked Account provider to completing your money transfer, you now know exactly how to get your funds to Germany safely. Make the process even easier by opening your Blocked Account online and transferring money with ExTravelMoney. Save more than 5% with transparent fees, unbeatable exchange rates, and fast document verification and online processing.
Also Read: What Parents Need to Know About Overseas Tuition Payments
Ann Mariya Job is the Associate Content Writer at ExTravelMoney.com. Holding a Bachelor’s in Journalism, she excels in creating deeply researched, engaging, and crisp content. Her work helps readers understand the complexities of foreign exchange, overseas money transfers, and international travel.
