What is a Sperrkonto is an important concept for people preparing to move to Germany under the Chancenkarte, study-abroad or Ausbildung route. A Sperrkonto is tied to Germany’s financial proof requirement. This article explains this account.
Sperrkonto là gì
A Sperrkonto can be understood as a blocked account at a German bank, used to prove that an applicant has enough funds to live on when moving to Germany. This account locks a minimum required amount, and the account holder can only withdraw a limited amount each month.
A Sperrkonto is a common requirement for applicants of the Chancenkarte visa (job-seeking in Germany), the Ausbildung visa, and the study visa. It is not required for the EU Blue Card or standard work permits, since those categories already have salary income from a contract.
The amount that must be blocked
The minimum amount that must be blocked is calculated based on the BAföG threshold (Germany’s student aid rate) and is adjusted annually. The amount corresponds to one year’s living costs for one person, with a fixed monthly withdrawal limit.
Since this figure changes each year with the BAföG adjustment, anyone interested should check the current rate on Make it in Germany or at the German consulate before opening an account. Opening one with too little will require topping it up.
How to open a Sperrkonto
Vietnamese applicants can open a Sperrkonto at designated banks such as Deutsche Bank (which requires visiting a branch), or through online providers such as Fintiba, Expatrio and Coracle (the most popular option for those who cannot travel to Germany beforehand). Each provider has its own process and fees.
After opening the account and depositing the full amount, the bank issues a confirmation letter for use in the visa application. Withdrawals can only be made after the applicant arrives in Germany and activates the account. You should complete the Sperrkonto step early in the application process.
You should refer to thong tin Chancenkarte chinh thuc and Make it in Germany to check current conditions.
Summary
A Sperrkonto is a blocked account in Germany used to prove financial means for the Chancenkarte, Ausbildung and study-abroad visas (not required for the EU Blue Card). The blocked amount follows the BAföG threshold, updated annually, with a limited monthly withdrawal. It can be opened through Deutsche Bank, Fintiba, Expatrio or Coracle. You should check the current rate on Make it in Germany.
