Closing a German Blocked Bank Account Process

A Blocked Account (Sperrkonto) is a common requirement for international students and visa holders in Germany. It serves as proof that you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay. Eventually, there will come a time when you no longer need it—whether your studies are finished, your visa was not granted, or you’ve decided not to travel.

This guide walks you through the process of closing your blocked account from 2026 onwards, in a clear and straightforward way.

1# When Can You Close a Blocked Account?

You can start the closure process in situations such as:

• You’ve completed your stay in Germany and have received all the monthly payouts.
• Your visa application was rejected before you travelled.
• You’ve changed your plans and won’t be moving to Germany.
• You’re leaving Germany earlier than expected and no longer need the account.

2# If You’ve Received All Your Payouts

If your account has been running for the full agreed term (usually 12 months) and all the monthly transfers have been made, the balance should be at zero. In many cases, your provider will automatically close the account at this point.

• No extra paperwork is usually needed.
• Some providers might still ask for a short confirmation from you, just to finalize the process.

3# Closing the Account Early

If you need to close your blocked account before all payments have been made, the process involves a few key steps:

Step 1 – Contact Your Provider

Log in to your provider’s online portal or reach out to their customer support. Let them know you wish to close the account and follow their instructions.

Step 2 – Get a Sperrfreigabe (Blocking Release)

This is the official permission to release the remaining funds.

• • If you’re outside Germany, it comes from the German embassy or consulate.
  • If you’re in Germany, you’ll get it from your local Ausländerbehörde (foreigners’ authority).

Step 3 – Provide Your Bank Details

Give your provider the details of a bank account in your own name so they can send you the remaining balance. This can be the same account you used to deposit the money or another personal account.

Step 4 – Submit the Documents

Send the Sperrfreigabe and proof of your bank account to your provider, either through their online system or via email, depending on their process.

Step 5 – Wait for Processing

Once your documents are checked and approved, your provider will release the funds. This can take up to four weeks, so plan your timing accordingly.

4# Things to Keep in Mind

• You can’t close the account early without the Sperrfreigabe – it’s a legal requirement.
• Refunds will only be sent to an account in your own name.
• If your blocked account was only part of your financial proof and you still have time left on your visa, you must have another valid source of funds.
• Keep copies of the release document and any confirmation emails for your records.

5# Quick Early Bank Account Closure Checklist

• Contact your provider to request closure.
• Get the Sperrfreigabe from the embassy or foreigners’ office.
• Prepare proof of your personal bank account.
• Submit both documents to your provider.
• Wait for confirmation and receive your refund.

Frequently Asked Questions – Closing a. German Blocked Account

Q: Can I close my blocked account as soon as I get my visa?
A: No. The blocked account is part of your visa approval conditions. You can only close it early if you have official permission (Sperrfreigabe) from the German embassy or your local foreigners’ office.

Q: What is a Sperrfreigabe and why do I need it?
A: It’s an official “blocking release” document that authorises your bank or provider to release the funds before the original contract ends. Without it, your provider is legally not allowed to close the account early.

Q: How long does it take to close a blocked account early?
A: Once you’ve submitted the Sperrfreigabe and your bank details, it usually takes up to four weeks for the provider to process the closure and send you the refund.

Q: Can the refund be sent to a friend’s or family member’s account?
A: No. Refunds can only be transferred to a bank account in your name for security and compliance reasons.

Q: I’ve received all my monthly payouts. Do I need to do anything?
A: In most cases, your provider will automatically close the account once the balance reaches zero. However, it’s still a good idea to confirm with them directly.

Q: My visa was rejected. How do I get my money back?
A: Contact your provider, provide the official visa rejection letter or Sperrfreigabe from the embassy, and give them your bank account details. They will process the refund as per their standard timeline.

Fintaba and Deutsche Banks Account Closing Portals

• Closing a Fintaba Bank Account: https://help.fintiba.com/hc/en-gb/articles/360013980619-How-can-I-close-my-Fintiba-account
• Deutsche Bank Account Closure form: https://www.deutschebank.co.in/dam/india/pdf/form_centre_showcase_account_closure_form.pdf.

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