Starting September 1, 2024, Indian students applying for a German visa will need to show proof of €11,904 in their blocked accounts, up from €10,332. This increase, driven by inflation, is part of Germany’s efforts to ensure financial stability for international students.
Ameya Gadkari, a Systems Engineering student at Otto-von-Guericke Universität, sees the hike as a predictable outcome of economic conditions in Germany. Samruddhi Chaugule, a Masters student in Aviation Management, believes the higher blocked amount will be safer but notes that rising immigration has made finding affordable housing and part-time jobs challenging.
Param Sureliya, studying Electrical and Microsystems Engineering, views the 6.2% increase as modest compared to past adjustments, linking it to inflation trends. Despite concerns, both Gadkari and Sureliya think the new requirement won’t significantly deter Indian students, given Germany’s relatively lower living costs compared to countries like Canada.
Conversely, Chaugule and Puneet Sharma, a Masters student in Mechatronics Engineering, worry that continued increases might drive students to consider other, more affordable European options. They advise prospective students to secure part-time jobs and learn German early to mitigate financial burdens.
As the deadline approaches, students and families must weigh these new financial requirements carefully. While some view the increase as a necessary adjustment, others fear it may impact Germany’s appeal as a study destination.
