Blocked Account at Residence-Permit Renewal in Germany

Usually yes for the next 12 months. The Ausländerbehörde typically requires proof of €11,904 (12 × €992 BAföG rate 2026) for each extension under § 16b AufenthG — plus continuous health insurance (DAK-Studenten ~€135.52/month or Care Student €101.54/month).

€11,904 for 12 months (2026 BAföG minimum). Combined with valid health insurance proof — DAK-Studenten M10 or Care Student PDF — the extension is normally granted for another study year under § 16b AufenthG.

For § 16b student permits: normally yes, each 12-month cycle. For § 18a/18b skilled worker or § 20 job-search: usually replaced by a work contract or bank statements. Health insurance proof (Care Expatriate from €58/month or GKV) is always required.

Yes. BASTI (€4.90/month + €65 setup) is recognised by the Ausländerbehörde for both new applications and extensions. BASTI Smart and Premium tiers bundle Care Visa Protect (from €0.85/day) and DAK Garantietarif (−€120/year) — useful during the transition window.

The Ausländerbehörde may deny the extension. Top up to €11,904 before the appointment and bring proof of health insurance — DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month) or Care Student (€101.54/month). Missing either proof is the top reason for extension refusals under § 5 AufenthG.

Not always — if you now have regular income (employment contract, salary slips), this can replace the blocked account as proof of financial means. However, health insurance proof is always required. The BASTI blocked account (from 4.90 EUR/month) can be topped up if needed.

You need valid health insurance covering the new period. Care Expatriate (from 58 EUR/month) is recognized for residence permits. Incoming/travel insurance is typically not accepted for renewals.

Yes — if you cannot provide alternative proof of financial means (such as salary slips or a scholarship), an empty blocked account can lead to rejection. You can top up your BASTI blocked account (from 4.90 EUR/month) online via video identification.