Know this for Germany

Planning to study in Germany? That’s exciting! Germany offers world-class education at public universities with little to no tuition fees. But here’s something many students don’t expect: you need to prove you have €11,904 (about €992 per month) before you can get your student visa.

Don’t worry—this guide will explain everything in simple terms, so you know exactly what to do.

What is Proof of Finance?

Think of it as showing Germany that you can afford to live there while studying. The government wants to make sure you won’t struggle to pay for rent, food, and other basics while you’re focused on your education.

The current requirement is €11,904 for your first year (that’s €992 per month starting September 1, 2024)

This money should cover:

• Your rent
• Food and groceries
• Health insurance (mandatory)
• Transportation
• Books and study materials
• Day-to-day expenses

Do You Need to Show Proof of Finance?

Yes, if:

1. You’re from outside the EU/EEA
2. You need a student visa to enter Germany
3. You’re applying for a student residence permit

No, if:

1. You’re an EU/EEA citizen
2. You’re from Switzerland
3. You’re from certain countries with special agreements with Germany

Even if you don’t need to show proof for your visa, it’s smart to have enough money saved before moving to Germany!

Why Does Germany Ask for This?

Germany wants international students to succeed. Here’s why they have this requirement:

To help you focus on studying: Money worries can really hurt your grades. With enough funds, you can concentrate on your education.

To ensure a good quality of life: Germany wants you to live comfortably, not struggle to pay rent or skip meals.

To reduce dropout rates: Students who run out of money often have to leave their programs early. This requirement helps prevent that.

For visa approval: Showing you have enough money is a key part of getting your student visa approved.

Sponsorship, Bank Statements & Other Accepted Proof

Apart from a blocked account, students can also show financial proof through a formal obligation letter (Verpflichtungserklärung), an official sponsor, education loans, or consistent bank statements. Sponsors must provide strong financial evidence such as tax returns, stable income, bank history, and proof of relationship. Embassy officers carefully review these documents to ensure the sponsor can genuinely support the applicant throughout their studies.