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Blocked Accounts in Germany Explained

Understanding Fintiba, Expatrio, and Transferring Funds from Pakistan

Introduction

If you are planning to study in Germany, you will likely need to open a blocked account (Sperrkonto) as proof of financial resources for your visa application. This guide explains what blocked accounts are, the main providers available to Pakistani students, and how to transfer funds from Pakistan.

What is a Blocked Account?

A blocked account is a special bank account required by German authorities to prove that international students have sufficient funds to cover living expenses during their first year in Germany. The money is "blocked" meaning you cannot withdraw it all at once; instead, a fixed amount is released to you monthly.

Required Amount (2026)

As of 2024, the required amount was increased to EUR 11,904 per year (EUR 992 per month). This amount may be adjusted annually. Always check the current requirement before depositing funds.

Tip: Deposit slightly more than the minimum (e.g., EUR 12,000) to cover bank fees and any monthly variations.

Main Blocked Account Providers

Fintiba

  • Setup fee: Approximately EUR 89
  • Monthly fee: EUR 4.90
  • Processing time: 3-5 business days for account activation
  • Website: www.fintiba.com

Advantages: Fast processing, user-friendly app, widely accepted by German embassies, customer support in English.

Expatrio

  • Setup fee: Approximately EUR 49
  • Monthly fee: EUR 5.00
  • Processing time: 3-7 business days
  • Website: www.expatrio.com

Advantages: Lower setup cost, bundled health insurance options, straightforward interface.

Deutsche Bank

  • Setup fee: Varies
  • Requires physical presence for some steps
  • Traditional bank experience

Note: Deutsche Bank blocked accounts require more documentation and may take longer to process. Most Pakistani students prefer Fintiba or Expatrio for convenience.

Opening Process: Step by Step

Step 1: Create an Account

Visit Fintiba or Expatrio website. Create an account using your email and basic personal information.

Step 2: Complete Verification

  • Upload a clear copy of your passport
  • Complete identity verification (usually through video call or automated photo verification)
  • Provide your university admission letter (if available)
  • Fill in personal and contact details

Step 3: Pay the Setup Fee

Pay the setup fee using a credit card or international transfer. The account will be created once the fee is processed.

Step 4: Receive Account Details

You will receive your German blocked account details, including the IBAN, within a few business days. Download the blocking confirmation letter for your visa application.

Step 5: Transfer Funds

Transfer the required amount from Pakistan to your German blocked account.

Transferring Money from Pakistan

This is often the most challenging part for Pakistani students. Here are your options:

Option 1: Bank Wire Transfer

Transfer from your Pakistani bank account directly to your blocked account.

  • Required documents: Passport copy, admission letter, I-20/visa appointment letter, bank account details
  • Processing time: 3-7 business days
  • Fees: Bank charges plus currency conversion fees (typically PKR 5,000-15,000)
  • State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) regulations allow educational remittances with proper documentation

Option 2: Exchange Companies

Licensed exchange companies may offer competitive rates and faster processing.

  • Companies like Western Union, MoneyGram, or local authorized dealers
  • Compare rates before choosing a service
  • Ensure the company is authorized to handle educational remittances

Option 3: Family Abroad

If you have family members in countries with easier remittance to Germany (UAE, UK, USA), they may be able to transfer on your behalf.

Important: Always use legal channels for money transfer. Document everything. Unauthorized transfers can create problems for your visa application.

Required Documents for Bank Transfer

Pakistani banks typically require:

  • Valid passport
  • University admission or acceptance letter
  • Blocked account confirmation with IBAN
  • Visa appointment letter (if available)
  • CNIC
  • Filled remittance application form

Common Banks for International Transfers

These Pakistani banks are commonly used for educational remittances:

  • Habib Bank Limited (HBL)
  • United Bank Limited (UBL)
  • Allied Bank
  • MCB Bank
  • Bank Alfalah

Visit your bank's foreign remittance department. Processing requirements vary by branch, so confirm document requirements in advance.

After Arriving in Germany

Once you arrive in Germany:

  • Complete your city registration (Anmeldung)
  • Open a regular German bank account (Girokonto)
  • Activate your blocked account by providing your registration certificate
  • Monthly amounts will be transferred to your regular account

Tips for Pakistani Students

  • Start the process 2-3 months before your visa appointment
  • Keep multiple copies of all transfer receipts
  • Inform your bank in advance about large foreign currency transactions
  • Compare exchange rates across multiple banks
  • Join Pakistani student groups in Germany on Facebook for current advice

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the blocked account money for tuition?

No. Blocked accounts are for living expenses only. Tuition (if applicable) must be paid separately.

What if I have a scholarship?

If your scholarship covers living expenses, you may not need a blocked account. Check with your scholarship provider and the German embassy.

Can I close the account if my visa is rejected?

Yes. Both Fintiba and Expatrio allow account closure with refund of deposited funds if your visa is rejected. Setup fees are generally non-refundable.

The blocked account requirement may seem complex, but with proper planning and documentation, the process is manageable. Start early, keep records of everything, and do not hesitate to contact your provider's customer service if you encounter issues.