Study Inspire

Complete German Student Visa Requirements

Non-EU, non-EEA international students from India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Pakistan all require a German student visa (Nationaler Visum, Type D) to study in Germany.

Germany's student visa process has specific, unique requirements — most notably the Blocked Account (Sperrkonto) for financial evidence and the APS Certificate for academic verification (for Indian students).

The Blocked Account (Sperrkonto)

Instead of simply showing funds in a bank account, Germany requires you to open a special "blocked account" into which you deposit a fixed amount before your visa application.

For 2024/2025: The requirement is €11,208 (equivalent to €934 per month). This money is your own and is released to you in monthly instalments once you arrive in Germany.

How to Open a Blocked Account

The Blocked Account is a guarantee mechanism to ensure you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your studies. Popular providers include Fintiba, Expatrio, and Coracle.

Step 1: Choose a Provider

Register online with Fintiba, Expatrio, or Deutsche Bank.

Step 2: Transfer Funds

Transfer €11,208 + service fees (approx €60-€130) from your home country.

Step 3: Receive Certificate

Get the blocking confirmation certificate to include in your visa application.

Step 4: Activate in Germany

Once in Germany, open a local checking account to receive your €934 monthly payouts.

APS Certificate — Mandatory for India

The Academic Evaluation Centre (APS — Akademische Prüfstelle) assessment is a mandatory requirement for Indian applicants to German universities and for the German student visa.

Purpose: Verifies the authenticity of Indian academic documents (degrees, transcripts).
Timeline: Takes approx. 4 to 6 weeks. Apply early!
Process: Conducted at the German Embassy in New Delhi. Requires document submission and an interview.
Cost: Approximately €100 to €150.
Note: Not currently required for Sri Lanka. Bangladeshi applicants must confirm with the Embassy in Dhaka.

Full German Student Visa Checklist

Ensure you have these required documents prepared before your embassy appointment.

Document	Detail
University admission letter	Unconditional offer from a German state university or accredited private institution
Blocked account confirmation	€11,208 blocked account certificate from Fintiba, Expatrio, or equivalent
Health insurance	German public health insurance (GKV) or private equivalent
Language certificate	German B2-C1 for German programs OR IELTS 6.5+ for English programs
Academic transcripts	Certified copies of all degree certificates and transcripts
APS Certificate	Mandatory for Indian applicants (must apply 4-6 weeks in advance)
Passport photographs	Biometric specification
Valid passport	At least 6 months validity beyond intended study period
Visa application form & Fee	German National Visa application form + €75 Visa fee

Need Visa & APS Assistance?

Our visa experts will guide you step-by-step through opening a blocked account, securing health insurance, and applying for your mandatory APS Certificate.

Get Visa Assistance

Germany Student Visa