It is the classic "good news, bad news" scenario. You receive your acceptance letter from a prestigious German university—tuition is free, the course is in English, and you are ready to go.

Then you look at the student visa requirements.

You hit a wall called the Blocked Account (or Sperrkonto). The requirement is jarring: you must deposit a massive lump sum of cash into a German bank account before your visa appointment.

For many South African students, this feels impossible. Here is exactly what this requirement is, why it exists, and the alternatives available to you.

 

What is a Blocked Account?

 

Germany does not charge tuition fees for most public universities, but they are very strict about you not becoming a burden on their social welfare system.

To prove you can survive, you must show "Proof of Financial Resources" (Finanzierungsnachweis). The standard way to do this is a Blocked Account.

  • The 2025 Amount: The required amount has increased. For 2025, you must deposit €11,904 (approx. R230,000 depending on the exchange rate).

  • How it Works: You transfer the full amount to a provider (like Fintiba, Expatrio, or Coracle). They "block" it. Once you arrive in Germany, they release €992 per month back to you for your living expenses (rent, food, insurance).

  • It is Your Money: This is not a fee. It is your own money, held in escrow to ensure you don't run out of funds in month three.

 

Option 2: The "Verpflichtungserklärung" (Formal Obligation Letter)

 

If you do not have €11,904 in cash, this is your primary alternative.

A relative or friend living in Germany can sign a Formal Obligation Letter (Verpflichtungserklärung). By signing this document at their local Aliens' Authority (Ausländerbehörde) in Germany, they legally pledge to cover your living costs.

  • The Catch: The sponsor must show proof of sufficient stable income in Germany. It is a serious legal commitment that lasts for years, so it is usually only an option for close family.

 

Option 3: Full Scholarships

 

If you have won a recognized scholarship (like the DAAD), this can replace the Blocked Account.

  • Partial Scholarships: If your scholarship pays €500 per month, you only need to block the difference (e.g., €492 per month) in your account.

  • The Proof: You must present the official scholarship award letter stating the exact monthly allowance.

 

How NAC Travel Helps You Finance Your Future

 

The Blocked Account is often the biggest hurdle for our student clients. At study.nac-travel.org, we help you navigate the financial logistics.

  • Provider Selection: We guide you to the correct, government-approved Blocked Account providers (like Expatrio or Fintiba) that open accounts for South Africans within 24 hours.

  • Sponsor Management: If you are using a relative in Germany, we advise them on the exact process to get the Verpflichtungserklärung signed and couriered to South Africa in time for your appointment.

  • Document Verification: A rejected financial proof means a rejected visa. We audit your financial documents to ensure they meet the German Embassy's strict standards before you apply.

Don't let the price tag scare you away. With the right planning, that €11,904 requirement is manageable.