2026 Comparison
Expatrio vs Fintiba
The two blocked account providers you can open in 2026, compared on fees, speed, and features. We also explain why Deutsche Bank and Coracle are no longer options for new students.
Last updated:
Setup and Fees
| Criteria | Expatrio | Fintiba |
|---|---|---|
| Setup fee | €119 | €159 |
| Monthly account fee | €9/month | €9.90/month |
| Confirmation speed | Instant once funds are received (per Expatrio) | Usually within 24 hours; instant by credit card for eligible users |
| Total first-year cost | ~€227 | ~€277.80 |
Account Features
| Criteria | Expatrio | Fintiba |
|---|---|---|
| Online setup | Yes, fully online | Yes, fully online in the Fintiba app |
| Free German bank account | Yes, included | Not included; needs a separate account for payouts |
| Bundled health insurance | Value Package: health insurance plus free travel cover worth up to €95 (up to 92 days) | Fintiba Plus: health insurance plus free travel cover worth up to €95 |
| Debit card | Free digital bank card (Value Package) | Not stated on Fintiba's homepage; check with Fintiba |
| Monthly withdrawal | €992/month (1/12 of €11,904) | €992/month |
Visa and Embassy
| Criteria | Expatrio | Fintiba |
|---|---|---|
| Embassy acceptance | Expatrio says it is accepted by all German authorities | Fintiba says it is an officially accepted proof of funds |
| Confirmation document | Issued once the funds are received | Usually within 24 hours after the full amount arrives |
| Deposit amount (2026) | €11,904/year | €11,904/year |
| If your visa is refused | The refusal notice lifts the block (Federal Foreign Office); check Expatrio's terms for refunds and fees | Full refund of funds with the refusal letter, usually 3 to 7 business days |
Eligibility and Support
| Criteria | Expatrio | Fintiba |
|---|---|---|
| Applicants under 18 | Check with Expatrio | Has a dedicated offer for minors |
| English support | Full English support | Full English support |
| Best for | Most students (lower fees, free bank account) | Applicants under 18, or anyone who prefers Fintiba Plus |
One announced merger, two brands
In May 2025, CHAPTERS Group, Fintiba's parent company, announced the merger of Fintiba and Expatrio and expected it to close that month (Fintiba had acquired Coracle in December 2024). The choice between them is about packaging and price, not corporate independence.
Deutsche Bank and Coracle
- Deutsche Bank: its page for international students says new blocked accounts can no longer be opened; existing accounts are not affected.
- Coracle: acquired by Fintiba in December 2024. Its website still shows a blocked account but lists the opening fee as "coming soon", so check with Coracle directly before relying on it.
The Verdict
For most international students, Expatrio is the best overall choice: lower fees and a free German bank account connected to the blocked account. Choose Fintiba if the applicant is under 18, if you prefer the Fintiba Plus bundle, or if Expatrio does not fit your case. Check Deutsche Bank and Coracle directly before considering them.
Frequently Asked Questions
A blocked account is a special bank account required by the German government to prove you can financially support yourself during your stay. For 2026, you must deposit €11,904 (€992 per month for 12 months), and only €992 is released each month. It is the best-known way to prove funds for a student visa; a formal sponsor declaration or a German or EU scholarship also counts.
Expatrio and Fintiba are the two providers we compared that a new student can open online today. Deutsche Bank's page for international students says new blocked accounts can no longer be opened. Coracle's site shows its opening fee as "coming soon", so check with Coracle directly before you rely on it.
Not for new applicants. Deutsche Bank's page for international students says new blocked accounts can no longer be opened; existing accounts are not affected. Expatrio and Fintiba both open fully online from abroad.
Fintiba acquired Coracle in December 2024, according to the May 2025 merger announcement by CHAPTERS Group. Coracle's website still shows its blocked account, but lists the opening fee as "coming soon". Check with Coracle directly before you rely on it for a visa application.
Expatrio is cheaper: €119 setup plus €9 per month works out to about €227 for the first year. Fintiba is €159 setup plus €9.90 per month, about €277.80 for the first year. Both confirm quickly: Expatrio says instantly once your funds arrive, Fintiba usually within 24 hours.
Probably not. In May 2025, CHAPTERS Group, Fintiba's parent company, announced the merger of Fintiba and Expatrio and said it expected the deal to close that month. For a student the real differences are packaging and price.
Yes. Both Expatrio and Fintiba let you open the account fully online from abroad, so you can complete it before your visa appointment.
Yes. The deposit amount is set by the German government, not the provider. For 2026 it is €11,904 (€992 for 12 months). The difference between providers is setup fees, monthly charges, and bundled services.
Need Help?
Not Sure Which Provider to Choose?
Get a free profile evaluation. We will help you open the right blocked account and guide you through the entire visa process.
