Germany has long been a popular destination for professionals looking for new opportunities. In recent years, the Germany Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) has been introduced to attract skilled workers from around the world to come and live and work in Germany. One of the key requirements for this visa is proving that you have sufficient funds to support yourself while seeking employment. For international applicants, this is usually done through a blocked account.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the entire process of understanding, opening, and selecting the right bank for a blocked account, focusing on those that are approved for applicants of the Germany Opportunity Card.
What is a Blocked Account?
A blocked account is a special bank account where you deposit a required amount of money that will remain inaccessible for the duration of one year of your stay. The amount of money in the blocked account ensures the German authorities that you have enough funds to support yourself financially while living in Germany.
The German government has set a minimum required amount for applicants to the Germany Opportunity Card. As of 2025, applicants are required to deposit EUR 13,092 in their blocked account. This money will not be accessible to you all at once. Instead, it will be released gradually, typically on a monthly basis, to cover your living expenses in Germany.
Why Do International Applicants Need a Blocked Account for the Opportunity Card?
When applying for the Germany Opportunity Card, you must show proof that you can financially sustain yourself without relying on German state funds. This is part of the visa requirement to ensure that applicants can comfortably live in the country while searching for employment. The blocked account serves as the official proof that you meet this financial requirement. Without this proof, your application will not be processed, and you will not be able to receive the visa.
Blocked accounts also reassure the German government that the applicants will not end up in financial hardship while looking for work in the country. They are essentially a guarantee of financial independence during the early phase of your stay in Germany.
List of Acceptable Banks for Blocked Accounts for the Germany Opportunity Card
When it comes to selecting a bank for your blocked account, not all banks are accepted by the German authorities. Therefore, it’s critical that you use one of the approved banks or service providers that offer blocked accounts. Let’s explore some of the top banks and providers that are commonly used by international applicants.
Fintiba
Fintiba is one of the most recognized and reliable providers for opening a blocked account for applicants to Germany. In partnership with Sutor Bank, Fintiba offers an entirely digitalized process that makes it easy for applicants to open a blocked account remotely—without needing to be in Germany.
Key Features
- Fully Online Application: The application process is entirely online, which means you can complete everything from your home country.
- English Support: Fintiba provides excellent customer support in English, making the process smoother for international applicants.
- Fast Processing: Fintiba’s processing times are generally quicker than many traditional banks, making it an ideal choice for those on tight timelines.
- Additional Services: Fintiba also offers supplementary services like health insurance for international students and workers, which can make your move to Germany even easier.
Expatrio
Expatrio is another popular choice for opening blocked accounts. They collaborate with banks to facilitate the blocked account service. Expatrio is renowned for its easy-to-use interface and quick processing, which makes it highly convenient for applicants who are applying for the Germany Opportunity Card from abroad.
Key Features
- Simple Process: Expatrio provides a straightforward, digital process that allows you to apply for your blocked account remotely.
- Partner Banks: Expatrio works with well-known German banks like Commerzbank and ING, ensuring that the account is official and accepted by the German authorities.
- Additional Services: Expatrio offers bundled services like health insurance, which is often required when applying for a visa to Germany.
Coracle
Coracle is an emerging provider that offers an efficient and easy-to-use solution for setting up blocked accounts. They work directly with Deutsche Bank and offer fast setup times. Coracle also specializes in offering additional services like health insurance, which can be bundled with your blocked account to simplify your visa process.
Key Features
Quick Setup: The setup process is fast and efficient, ensuring you can meet any deadlines for your visa application.
Health Insurance Options: Coracle’s collaboration with health insurance providers makes it a great one-stop shop for applicants needing both financial proof and health coverage.
English Support: The platform and customer support are available in English, which makes the process much more convenient for international applicants.
Kotak Bank India
For Indian nationals, Kotak Bank offers a specialized blocked account option that is recognized by the German authorities. If you’re familiar with Kotak Bank or have previously used their services, this might be a convenient option for you. They provide a reliable, secure way to meet the financial requirements for the Germany Opportunity Card.
Key Features
- Specific for Indian Applicants: Kotak Bank offers this service specifically for Indian nationals looking to apply for a visa to Germany.
- Secure and Trusted: With its strong presence in India and its recognition by the German Federal Foreign Office, Kotak is a trusted provider for blocked accounts.
- Quick Setup: Kotak’s blocked account service is known for its smooth setup process and prompt processing times.
How to Open a Blocked Account with These Banks
Opening a blocked account is a relatively straightforward process, but there are a few key steps involved:
- Choose a Provider: Select the bank or provider based on your needs and preferences. Consider factors like processing time, fees, customer service, and availability of additional services like health insurance.
- Gather Required Documents: You’ll need to provide identification (such as a passport), proof of Chancenkarte application, and the required amount of funds for the blocked account.
- Complete the Application: Many online providers allow you to complete the application entirely online, while traditional banks may require in-person visits. Ensure you fill out the necessary forms correctly.
- Deposit the Funds: After your application is accepted, deposit the required funds into the blocked account. This can usually be done via wire transfer or other accepted methods.
- Receive Confirmation: Once the deposit is made, the bank will issue a confirmation letter. This confirmation is necessary for your visa application.
- Access to Funds: The funds in your blocked account will be released gradually, typically on a monthly basis, to cover your living expenses.
What to Look for When Choosing the Right Bank for Your Blocked Account
When selecting a bank or service provider for your blocked account, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure that your application goes smoothly:
- Processing Time: Speed is critical, especially if you are on a tight schedule for your visa application. Look for providers that offer fast processing times.
- Fees: Service fees are an important consideration. Compare the fees charged by different providers to find the most cost-effective option.
- Customer Support: A provider with excellent customer service can make the application process much easier. Look for English-language support if you are not fluent in German.
- Reputation and Trustworthiness: Ensure that the provider you choose is reputable and recognized by the German government. This helps ensure that your blocked account is valid for your visa application.
The Germany Opportunity Card offers a fantastic opportunity for skilled professionals to start a career in Germany, but securing the visa requires careful planning. One of the key steps in the application process is opening a blocked account, which serves as proof that you can financially support yourself during your job search.
Providers like Fintiba, Expatrio, Coracle, and Kotak Bank offer convenient and reliable blocked account services, but it’s essential to choose the one that best fits your individual needs. By selecting the right provider and ensuring you meet all necessary requirements, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your career goals in Germany.
West Highlander Immigration
If you want to know more about the Chancenkarte application process and the other requirements that you need to fulfil, like the financial obligations and more, then you should contact Ms. Parwinder Kaur at West Highlander Immigration.