If you come from a non-EU country and need to apply for a student visa and/or a residence permit in Germany, you must provide proof of financial resources to the German authorities.

This means you need to show that you have enough money to cover your living expenses in Germany for one year of study (or for the next year if you are renewing your residence permit).

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Updated financial requirement (2025/2026):

International students are currently required to prove that they have at least €11,904 available to cover living expenses for one year in Germany. This equals a monthly amount of €992, which is based on the estimated cost of living used by German authorities for student visa and residence permit applications.

This requirement replaced the previous amount (€11,208) and is still valid for 2025 and into 2026.

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There are several ways to prove your financial resources. The most common option is a Blocked account .

Please note that accepted forms of financial proof can vary. Always check with your German diplomatic mission to confirm which documents are recognized in your specific case.

Once you are in Germany and apply for or renew your residence permit, additional proof may be accepted. For example, a student job contract,

➡️ You will need a German or EU bank account in order to withdraw money from your blocked account. Have a look here to see how to open one.