Is the block account mandatory for all countries or only for Germany and Canada?
No, a blocked account, or Sperrkonto, is mandatory only for Germany, not for Canada. Germany requires 11,904 euros deposited for a 12-month stay, with a capped monthly withdrawal of 992 euros. Canada, the US, UK, and Australia instead accept regular savings accounts, education loans, or scholarships as proof of funds.
No, you do not need a blocked account everywhere, and you will not even need one for Canada anymore. This strict, frozen-deposit system is a structural quirk unique to Germany, while most other popular study destinations accept simpler proof of funds from you.
Blocked Account Rules By Country
| Country | Blocked Account Required | What They Accept Instead |
|---|---|---|
| Germany | Yes, mandatory (Sperrkonto) | 11,904 euros deposited, 992 euros withdrawal cap per month |
| Canada | No, GIC is now voluntary since SDS closed | Active savings account with 4-6 months of history |
| US, UK, Australia | No | Liquid bank balance (UK requires 28 consecutive days held) |
Other Countries With Similar Deposit Systems
- Belgium: some universities run their own blocked account procedure, disbursing your living allowance monthly.
- Netherlands and Finland: a few institutions use an escrow-style holding account that refunds your deposit once you land.
- Germany exemptions: a fully funded scholarship, like DAAD, or a sponsor's formal obligation letter (Verpflichtungserklärung) can waive the blocked account requirement.
My Advice
If Germany is your target, open your blocked account through a recognized provider at least a few weeks before your visa appointment so the funds are visible and locked in time. If you are heading to Canada, the US, UK, or Australia instead, focus your energy on building a clean 4 to 6 month savings history rather than hunting for a blocked account you do not need.
Cash income, business income or no ITR?
See whether your funds and documents will pass the Canadian visa check.
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