How long does it take to open a blocked account in Germany?

For many international students and visa applicants , opening a blocked account is a central part of their stay in Germany. The blocked account serves as financial security for the German authorities and ensures that applicants can independently finance their living expenses during their stay (see Section 5, Paragraph 1, No. 1 of the Residence Act ). Although the term "blocked account" initially sounds bureaucratic, the opening process is now usually straightforward and fully digitalized – especially with specialized providers who focus on international clients.

Speed open blocked account Visa Germany

Once you 've registered with a relevant online provider , you can submit your application online. In many cases, users receive initial registration confirmation within a few hours . The speed of account opening depends largely on how quickly and completely the required documents are uploaded. These typically include identification documents, proof of the purpose of your stay, and personal information required for account opening. It's important to note: Only complete applications will be processed. Therefore, those who proceed carefully from the start and conscientiously complete all the to-dos on the online platform can significantly shorten the processing time.

How long it actually takes until the blocked account is fully set up and ready for use depends on several factors. Generally, the entire process can be completed within a few weeks . In individual cases, it can be very quick—especially if all documents are available and identity verification is completed immediately. In other cases, such as incomplete applications or additional queries, it can take up to six weeks. Therefore, it's advisable to take care of the blocked account early, especially if you plan to apply for a visa.

Time to open a blocked account Visa

Many applicants are wondering whether they need to fully activate the blocked account before going to the diplomatic mission. The good news: In practice, many German diplomatic missions abroad only require official confirmation that the account has been opened and that the amount is to be blocked. Some providers issue provisional certificates for this purpose , which generally meet the authorities' requirements. This is particularly helpful in urgent cases when time is tight for a visa application or the start of a semester.

Conclusion Duration Opening Blocked Account Visa

Opening a blocked account is no longer a complicated process. Thanks to digital solutions and standardized procedures, the account can often be opened within a few hours or days – provided all information and documents are correct. However, applicants shouldn't wait too long: Starting early ensures that all documents will be ready by the time of the visa application and avoids any unpleasant delays. A blocked account is therefore not just a bureaucratic requirement, but also an important step toward financial independence during your stay in Germany.

Do you need a blocked account that's recognized by the authorities? Our law firm generally uses Fintiba for its client work and has consistently had positive experiences with it. By signing a blocked account agreement via this link, you support our firm's blog. For the sake of transparency, we would like to point out that there are other blocked account providers.