Are you a Kenyan citizen planning to visit Germany for tourism, business, education, or work? Navigating the German visa application process can seem daunting at first, but with proper guidance and preparation, you can increase your chances of a successful application.
ChrisTrip Visas & Travel specializes in German visa application support for Kenyan citizens and residents. Our experienced consultants guide you through every step of the process, from determining the appropriate visa category to preparing for your interview.
Talk to ChrisTrip Visas & Travels for all your visa application needs!
Also Read: Requirements for Visa Application from Kenya to the United Kingdom
Germany Visa Requirements for Kenyan Citizens
Germany, as part of the Schengen Area, requires Kenyan citizens to obtain a visa before entry. The specific requirements depend on your purpose of travel, but all applicants must provide:
- A completed and signed application form
- A valid Kenyan passport with at least two blank pages and validity extending at least three months beyond your planned departure date from Germany
- Two recent biometric passport photos (35mm x 45mm) with white background
- Travel health insurance with minimum coverage of €30,000, valid throughout the Schengen Area
- Proof of accommodation for your entire stay
- Flight itinerary or reservation (not a purchased ticket)
- Proof of sufficient financial means to cover your stay (approximately €75 per day)
- Evidence of strong ties to Kenya that demonstrate your intention to return
Types of German Visas Available for Kenyans
Depending on your travel purpose, you’ll need to apply for the appropriate visa category:
1. Tourist/Visitor Visa
For tourism, visiting family or friends, this short-stay visa allows stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
2. Business Visa
For attending meetings, conferences, or exploring business opportunities. You’ll need an invitation letter from a German company.
3. Student Visa: Germany Visa Requirements for Students
If you’re planning to study in Germany, you’ll need:
- An acceptance letter from a German educational institution
- Proof of language proficiency (usually German or English)
- Evidence of financial resources (blocked account with approximately €10,332 per year)
- Academic certificates and transcripts
4. Work Visa: Germany Visa Requirements for Work
Working in Germany requires:
- A job offer from a German employer
- Proof of qualifications and work experience
- Employment contract
- For skilled workers, you may need recognition of your professional qualifications
How Much is Visa from Kenya to Germany?
The current visa fees for Kenyan applicants are:
- Schengen visa (short-stay): €80 for adults, €40 for children aged 6-12
- National visa (long-stay): €75
- Service fees at the application center are additional
Please note that visa fees are non-refundable, regardless of the application outcome. Certain categories like students or researchers may qualify for fee waivers under specific circumstances.
Germany Visa Document Requirements
When preparing your application, organize your documents in this order:
- Application form and declaration
- Passport and copies of previous visas
- Photos
- Travel insurance certificate
- Flight itinerary
- Accommodation proof
- Financial documents (bank statements for the last 3-6 months)
- Purpose-specific documents:
- For tourism: Travel itinerary, hotel bookings
- For business: Invitation letters, company registration
- For family visits: Invitation letter, passport copy of host, residence permit if applicable
- For students: Acceptance letter, language certificates
- For workers: Employment contract, qualifications
All documents must be in German or English, or accompanied by certified translations.
VFS Germany Visa Requirements
When using VFS Global services for your German visa application:
- Schedule an appointment online through the VFS website
- Arrive 15 minutes before your appointment time
- Bring all original documents plus one set of photocopies
- Be prepared to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo)
VFS offers additional services like premium lounge access, courier return, SMS notifications, and document verification assistance for additional fees.
TLS Germany Visa Requirements
Note that while TLS Contact handles visa applications for many European countries, German visa applications in Kenya are processed exclusively by VFS Global, not TLS.
How Long Does it Take to Get a German Visa in Kenya?
Processing times for German visas from Kenya typically range from:
- 5-15 working days for Schengen short-stay visas
- 4-12 weeks for national visas (study, work, family reunion)
Processing can take longer during peak travel seasons (June-August and December-January). We recommend applying at least 4-6 weeks before your intended travel date.
Tips for a Successful German Visa Application
- Be truthful and consistent throughout your application
- Demonstrate strong ties to Kenya that prove your intention to return
- Provide complete documentation – missing documents often lead to rejection
- Apply early to allow time for additional document requests
- Ensure financial documents show a stable history, not just recent large deposits
- Prepare for your interview by reviewing your travel plans and application details
How ChrisTrip Visas & Travel Can Help in German Visa Application
At ChrisTrip Visas & Travel, our experienced consultants:
- Guide you through selecting the right visa category
- Review your documents for completeness and accuracy
- Help prepare a compelling application package
- Provide interview preparation assistance
- Offer document translation services
- Keep you updated throughout the process
Don’t navigate the German visa application process alone. Contact ChrisTrip Visas & Travel today for personalized assistance that increases your chances of visa approval. Our expertise in Germany visa requirements for Kenyan citizens ensures you’ll have professional guidance every step of the way.
