If I open a blocked account for my German visa but decide not to travel, will the money be refunded?
Yes, you get a full refund if you decide not to travel, but you must formally cancel your visa or application first and get a release document called a Sperrfreigabe. Expect setup fees to stay non-refundable and the wire transfer refund to take two to four weeks to process.
You will get your blocked account money back in full if you choose not to travel. However, you cannot simply log in and withdraw it yourself, because the account stays legally blocked. You must complete a formal release process with the embassy and your provider first.
Getting Your Release Document First
| Your situation | What you need |
|---|---|
| Already have the visa | Cancel it at the embassy to get a Sperrfreigabe |
| Application still pending | Withdraw it, and the embassy issues a Sperrfreigabe |
| Never applied | Ask your provider directly, an embassy letter may help |
Closing The Account And What Gets Deducted
- Upload your passport copy, release document, and original sending bank details to your provider's portal.
- Refunds typically arrive within two to four weeks by international wire transfer.
- Your setup fee, usually 89 to 119 euros, generally stays non-refundable, and some providers add a small closing fee too.
My Advice
Request your release document the moment you decide not to travel, since embassies and providers both move slowly, and starting early keeps your refund timeline predictable.
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