Blocked Account vs Fintiba vs Expatrio: Which Is Best for Nepali Students Going to Germany?

If you're planning to study in Germany from Nepal, one of the first steps after receiving your admission letter is opening a blocked account — a financial requirement for getting your student visa.

But with multiple providers like Fintiba and Expatrio, how do you decide which one is best? Let’s break it down.

What is a Blocked Account?

It’s a special bank account that holds your living expenses for 12 months. As of 2025, the required amount is €11,208. Once you arrive in Germany, you receive a monthly payout (~€934).

Top Blocked Account Providers

While German banks like Deutsche Bank used to be popular, digital providers are now preferred for speed and ease. The most trusted for Nepali students are:

• Fintiba – Partnered with Sutor Bank
• Expatrio – Partnered with MANGOPAY

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Fintiba	Expatrio
Initial Setup Fee	€89	€49
Monthly Fee	€4.90	€5
Processing Time	1–3 days	1–3 days
Bundled Services	Blocked Account + Insurance	Blocked Account + Insurance + Free Value Package (includes ISIC card, relocation guide)
Partner Bank	Sutor Bank (Germany)	MANGOPAY (Luxembourg)
Reputation Among Nepali Students	Highly trusted, widely used	Also reliable, slightly newer

Other Considerations

• Customer Support: Both offer support in English. Fintiba has an app with chat, while Expatrio includes phone support.
• Insurance Bundling: Both offer health insurance options via DAK, Techniker Krankenkasse, or private insurers.
• Embassy Acceptance: Both are fully recognized by the German Embassy in Nepal.

Our Recommendation

Choose Fintiba if you want a proven name with a smooth mobile experience and strong reputation.

Choose Expatrio if you want to save on setup costs and enjoy a bonus “value package” with extra tools and support.

Final Thoughts

No matter which provider you choose, both Fintiba and Expatrio are secure, fast, and accepted by the embassy. Focus on what fits your personal needs best — cost, features, or support.

Have questions? Reach out to us or explore our other student finance guides.