Blocked Account (Sperrkonto) in Austria (2026)

Key terms

Sperrkonto (blocked account)

A bank account holding a locked lump sum, released in fixed monthly instalments to prove living funds for a visa or residence permit application.

Bankbestätigung (bank confirmation letter)

The letter a bank issues for a DIY blocked account, stating the locked balance and the monthly release schedule.

Sperrkonto-Bestätigung

The equivalent confirmation certificate issued by a managed provider such as Expatrio or Fintiba.

Haftungserklärung (sponsor declaration)

A financial guarantee from a sponsor (often a parent), accepted as an alternative proof of subsistence to a blocked account.

MA 35

The Vienna immigration authority (Magistratsabteilung 35) that processes residence permit applications and decides which proof-of-funds formats it accepts.

What is a blocked account (Sperrkonto)?

A blocked account (Sperrkonto in German) is a bank account where the full deposited amount is frozen and only released in predetermined fixed monthly instalments. The account holder cannot withdraw the full balance at once. This structure is designed to prove to immigration authorities that an applicant has guaranteed living funds for a specific period, typically 12 months.

First, you deposit a lump sum. The bank or provider then issues a Bankbestätigung (bank confirmation letter) or a Sperrkonto-Bestätigung. This letter confirms the locked balance and the release schedule. You include it with your visa or residence permit application. After you arrive and register, the account releases monthly amounts to your linked current account automatically.

The concept originated in Germany, where it is a legal requirement for student visa applications. Austria uses the same terminology and accepts the product, but as explained in the next section, it is not the only accepted proof format.

Is a blocked account required in Austria?

No. Austria does not have a statutory requirement for a blocked account. The legal test under the Austrian Settlement and Residence Act (migration.gv.at) is that applicants demonstrate adequate means of subsistence. This is a broader standard than Germany's. Five formats satisfy it:

• A blocked account (Sperrkonto)
• A regular savings account with 12 months of funds
• A Haftungserklärung (financial guarantee from a sponsor)
• A scholarship letter from OeAD
• Proof of employment with a sufficient salary

The key difference from Germany is that in Germany a blocked account is mandatory by law for student visas. In Austria, the embassy or MA 35 decides which documents they accept case by case. Some Austrian embassies are familiar with Expatrio and Fintiba certificates; others prefer a standard bank statement or a guarantee letter. Always confirm with your specific embassy or consulate before paying a provider setup fee.

How does a blocked account work (DIY vs provider)?

There are two routes: the DIY approach and the managed provider approach. Each involves depositing the required lump sum into a restricted account and obtaining a confirmation letter for your visa application, but the process, cost, and documentation differ.

How much does a blocked account cost?

Provider fees vary and are updated frequently. The figures below are approximate as of June 2026; always verify on the provider's website before signing up.

In addition to provider fees, you need to deposit the actual living funds. For a EUR 1,000 per month release plan, the total deposit is typically EUR 12,000 to EUR 13,000 (12 months plus buffer). These funds are yours; they are released back to you monthly and are not a fee. For international transfers, consider using Wise to reduce conversion and transfer costs compared to a standard bank wire.

How do you set one up step by step?

The process takes 2 to 4 weeks from start to confirmation letter. Allow extra time if you are transferring funds internationally via SWIFT. Start early to avoid delays before your visa appointment.

1. 1

   Step 1: Determine the required amount

   Check the current Austrian subsistence threshold at migration.gv.at or with OeAD. Multiply by 12 months and add a buffer for provider fees if using a service.

2. 2

   Step 2: Gather your documents

   Prepare your passport, proof of enrolment or visa application reference, and proof of address. Provider requirements vary; check the relevant website for their current document list.

3. 3

   Step 3: Open the account or register with a provider

   For DIY: open a restricted savings account at a bank (see open a bank account in Austria). For providers: register online with Expatrio, Fintiba, or Coracle and complete their identity verification.

4. 4

   Step 4: Deposit the funds early

   Transfer the full lump sum via SWIFT, SEPA, or Wise. Allow at least 5 to 10 business days before your visa appointment. SWIFT transfers from outside the EU can take longer.

5. 5

   Step 5: Obtain your confirmation letter

   The bank issues a Bankbestätigung; providers issue a Sperrkonto-Bestätigung. Both confirm the balance and the monthly release structure. This letter is the document you submit with your visa application.

6. 6

   Step 6: Submit with your visa application

   Include the confirmation letter in your document pack for the Austrian embassy or MA 35. Keep a certified copy for your records.

7. 7

   Step 7: Access funds after arrival

   After registering in Austria (Meldezettel) and your residence permit is activated, notify your provider or bank to begin monthly releases.

8. 8

   Step 8: Close the account at the end

   Once you no longer need the blocked account, close it and repatriate any remaining balance. Typical closure point is after your first permit renewal when employment income covers subsistence.

Frequently Asked Questions