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German Student Visa for Kenyan Students

Applying from Nairobi — documents, process, and what to expect.

Kenyan passport holders require a Schengen visa for all travel to Germany. For study purposes — which will last longer than 90 days — you specifically need a German national visa (Nationales Visum, Type D). This is applied for and received before you travel, at the German Embassy in Nairobi. The national student visa is different from a short-stay Schengen tourist visa.

Valid Kenyan passport (at least 6 months validity beyond your intended stay)
Completed visa application form (from the Embassy website)
Two recent biometric passport photographs
University admission letter (formal or conditional)
Sperrkonto certificate (~€11,208 deposited)
Proof of health insurance for Germany
Proof of accommodation in Germany (student hall, lease, or host letter)
Academic certificates and transcripts (KCSE + university)
CV and motivation letter
Visa fee: €75

Embassy address	Ludwig Krapf House, Riverside Drive, Nairobi
Coverage	Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and several other East African countries
Appointment booking	Online via the Embassy website — book well in advance; slots are limited
Processing time	4–8 weeks typical; apply at least 3 months before your planned departure
Visa fee	€75 (paid at the appointment)
Biometrics	Required at appointment (fingerprints and photograph)
Language	English documents are accepted