Visa FAQ — ApplyToGerman

Q: What are the alternatives to Fintiba for opening a blocked account (Sperrkonto)?

While Fintiba is the most popular, there are other blocked account (Sperrkonto) providers accepted by German consulates. The key is official recognition — make sure they are on the approved list. #Accepted Sperrkonto Providers Provider Opening Fee Monthly Fee Closing Fee Fintiba ~89 € 4.90-9.90 € 25 € Expatrio 49 € 5 € Free Coracle 99 € ~4 € Free Deutsche Bank ~150 € 5 € Free Sparkasse (local) ~50 € ~5 € Varies #Comparison Fintiba: Fastest (account in 24 hours), fully digital from Turkey. The Plus package includes private health insurance. Expatrio: Cheaper, the "Value Package" bundles insurance + Sperrkonto. Can be opened online from Turkey. Coracle: A third-party provider instead of a German bank. SwiftSEPA transfers are fast, but a disadvantage is that the account closing process can be lengthy. Deutsche Bank: A traditional bank. More expensive but secure long-term — you can convert it to a regular bank account once you're in Germany. #Which One Is Right for You? If you want fast, online, and digital: → Fintiba or Expatrio If you want to continue using your bank account after settling in Germany: → Deutsche Bank / Sparkasse For the lowest cost: → Expatrio or Coracle The official list on the consulate's website stays updated — check it before opening an account. Related: How much money in a blocked account · Fintiba Basic vs Plus

Q: How long is a German student visa valid?

When initially issued, your German student visa is valid for a maximum of 1 year, but once you arrive in Germany, it will be converted into a residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel). #Stages #Stage 1: Type D National Visa (Consulate) Duration: 3 months - 1 year Validity: Solely for entering Germany Re-entry Permit: Valid until your first registration (Anmeldung) in Germany #Stage 2: Student Residence Permit (Ausländerbehörde) Once you arrive in Germany, you'll register at the Bürgeramt and schedule an appointment with the Ausländerbehörde (Foreigners' Office): Duration: 1-2 years (can be extended for the duration of your university studies) Maximum: Up to the total duration of your studies (e.g., 4 years for a Bachelor's, 2 years for a Master's; PhD duration varies) Post-graduation: Automatic right to an 18-month job-seeker visa after graduation #Extension Apply to the Ausländerbehörde at least 3 months in advance. Provide your current Immatrikulationsbescheinigung (enrollment certificate). Show your blocked account (Sperrkonto) balance (is it still sufficient?). Ensure your health insurance is valid. Submit proof of academic progress (Leistungsnachweis) — this becomes particularly important after your 4th semester. #Important Time Rule You can work a maximum of 20 hours per week per year (otherwise, you risk visa issues). You're allowed to work 120 full days or 240 half-days per year. You're expected to show "sufficient academic progress" within 3-4 semesters — otherwise, your extension might be denied. #After Graduation As soon as you receive your diploma, you're eligible for an 18-month job-seeker visa (§ 20 Abs. 3) — no strings attached. Once you find a job, you can switch to a Blue Card or a work permit. Related: Job-seeker visa after Master's

What coverage should the required health insurance for the visa have?

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