Germany is one of the most affordable serious study destinations — many public universities charge little or no tuition. But the visa has one financial gate almost every Sri Lankan applicant has to clear: the blocked account, or Sperrkonto. Here’s exactly how it works in 2026.

What a Sperrkonto actually is

Sperrkonto literally means “blocked account.” You deposit a set sum into a special account before your visa; the money is locked so you can’t withdraw it all at once. After you arrive in Germany, the bank releases a fixed amount to you each month to cover living costs. It’s the German embassy’s standard, verifiable proof that you can support yourself in your first year.

The 2026 amount

For 2026 the required amount is €11,904 for the year — about LKR 4.1 million at current rates — released as €992 per month. That figure is tied to Germany’s BAföG student-support rate and has held steady since 2024.

• check_circle Annual blocked amount: €11,904 (roughly LKR 4.1 million)
• check_circle Monthly release once you arrive: €992
• check_circle Applies to: essentially every non-EU student, including Sri Lankans
• check_circle Purpose: proof of living-cost funds for your first year

Which providers to use

Several providers are set up specifically for this and are widely accepted by German missions — common names include Expatrio, Fintiba, and Coracle, alongside traditional options like a Deutsche Bank blocked account. They differ on setup fees, monthly handling fees, and how quickly they confirm your deposit, so compare before choosing.

How it fits the rest of your visa

The blocked account is the most common way to show funds, but it works alongside your other documents: admission letter, health insurance, academic certificates (often attested), and language evidence where required. Note that the Sperrkonto covers living costs — if your programme charges tuition or semester fees, budget those separately on top.

Getting your money back

The blocked funds are yours — once you’re in Germany and your local bank account is set up, the monthly releases flow to you, and any remaining balance is accessible when you close the account under the provider’s process. It isn’t a fee; it’s your own living money, parked to satisfy the visa.

The bottom line

The Sperrkonto is less intimidating once you see it for what it is: your first-year living costs, deposited early and drip-fed back to you monthly. Budget the €11,904, pick a reputable provider, and set it up well ahead of your visa appointment.

Next steps

If Germany is your destination, bring us your admission letter and we’ll walk you through the Sperrkonto, health insurance, and document attestation in the right order — so nothing holds up your visa. Our Germany student visa guide sets out the full document sequence, and our proof-of-funds and cost tools help you plan the €11,904 in rupee terms.