Individuals planning to move to Germany for studies, job-seeking opportunities, or long-term residence should be aware of an upcoming cost increase related to one of the country’s key visa requirements.
Expatrio, a widely used provider of German Blocked Accounts (Sperrkonto), has announced that its fees will increase effective 7 July 2026 (00:00 Germany time). The revised pricing will apply to new applicants opening a blocked account through the platform.
What Is Changing?
Under the new fee structure:
- The one-time account setup fee will increase from €89 to €119
- The monthly service fee will rise from €5 to €9 per month
For applicants maintaining a blocked account for a standard 12-month period, the overall additional cost is expected to be approximately €78 compared to the current pricing.
Why Does This Matter?
A blocked account is a mandatory financial requirement for many international nationals moving to Germany. It serves as proof that the applicant has sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in the country.
The requirement is commonly associated with:
- International students
- Language course participants
- Job seekers
- Germany Opportunity Card applicants
- Other long-term visa holders who must demonstrate financial self-sufficiency
For 2026, the required blocked amount remains €11,904 per year (€992 per month), as specified by German authorities. The recent announcement affects only the service fees charged by Expatrio and does not change the government-mandated blocked amount.
Impact on Germany Opportunity Card Applicants
The Germany Opportunity Card continues to attract skilled professionals looking to explore employment opportunities in Germany. Since many Opportunity Card applicants may use a blocked account as proof of financial means, the fee increase could add to their overall relocation expenses.
Applicants who are considering opening a blocked account in the coming weeks may wish to review their timelines carefully, as applications submitted before the new pricing takes effect could benefit from the current fee structure.
Looking Ahead
While the increase does not affect the required blocked account balance, it highlights the importance of financial planning for individuals preparing their move to Germany. Prospective applicants should factor in account setup charges, monthly maintenance fees, visa costs, insurance requirements, and relocation expenses when budgeting for their journey.
As Germany continues to attract international talent through pathways such as the Opportunity Card, staying informed about changing costs and immigration requirements remains essential for a smooth application process.
