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Germany Visa for Kenya Citizens 2026

Visa Required

Kenyan citizens need a Schengen short-stay visa (Type C) for Germany — apply via VFS Global Nairobi; fee €90 (about KES 12,500), standard processing 15 working days.

Guide last updated September 24, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid at least 3 months beyond planned departure, issued within the last 10 years, with 2 blank pages
  • Completed national visa application form
  • Biometric passport photo, 35x45mm
  • Proof of accommodation for the full stay
  • Travel health insurance covering the Schengen area with minimum €30,000
  • Proof of financial means: roughly €45/day, or a formal sponsor letter with bank statements
  • Confirmed flight reservation
  • Biometrics (fingerprints, valid 5 years) captured at VFS Global Nairobi

Visa types

  • Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) — Tourist/Visit/Business: single or multiple entry, up to 90 days in 180
  • National Visa (Type D) — Study, work, or family reunion, processed directly by the Embassy, not VFS
  • Airport Transit Visa: for passengers transiting through a German airport without entering the Schengen zone

How to apply

  • Book an appointment via the VFS Global Germany Nairobi website
  • Submit documents and biometrics in person at the visa application centre
  • Pay the visa fee: €90 for adults, €45 for children aged 6-11, free under 6
  • Pay the VFS service fee, approximately KES 7,000
  • Standard processing takes 15 calendar days, extending up to 6 weeks in high season
  • Type D national visas are processed directly by the Embassy and take 6-12 weeks

Fees & processing time

  • Visa fee: €90 (about KES 12,500)
  • VFS service charge: approximately KES 7,000
  • Total estimated cost: around KES 19,500
  • Standard Schengen processing: 15 working days
  • No official express lane through VFS, but early booking is strongly recommended

Tips for Kenya travelers

  • Book your VFS appointment early — slots fill up 4-6 weeks ahead, especially in summer
  • Common rejection reasons: insufficient proof of funds, unclear itinerary, or weak ties to Kenya
  • Apply no earlier than 6 months and no later than 15 days before travel
  • Extensions within Germany are granted only in emergencies, via the local Ausländerbehörde (foreigners' office)

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.