What is a Blocked Account (Sperrkonto)?

A German Blocked Account, or Sperrkonto, is a special type of bank account required by the German government for many non-EU/international individuals who wish to stay in Germany for an extended period as a student, job-seeker, training or apprenticeship, aupair, recognition of foreign qualifications, language learning, or Germany opportunity card is an exciting journey.

Think of it as a financial safety net, the German government wants to get assured before you arrive in the country. You deposit a specific amount of money into an escrew account before you apply for your German visa. 

The "blocked" part means that once you arrive in Germany, you can only withdraw a fixed maximum amount each month. 

This system ensures that you have enough money to cover your living expenses (like rent, food, and health insurance) during your stay and won’t become a financial burden on the German government.

It’s a way for the German government authorities to verify and get themselves assured that you are financially self-sufficient during your entire period of stay in Germany. The money yours, but its access is regulated to ensure it lasts for the entire period of your stay in Germany.