In this article we will be learning how to move to Germany from Kenya. Germany has become one of the top destinations for Kenyans looking for education, work, and professional training. With its strong economy, high-quality education, and structured immigration system, Germany offers plenty of opportunities — but the process can feel overwhelming if you don’t know where to start.
This guide breaks it down for you, step-by-step.
Why Germany?
- World-class education & training
- Affordable or no tuition fees at public institutions
- Work opportunities during and after your studies or training
- High quality of life, safety, and healthcare
- Visa pathways for skilled workers and students
Main Ways Kenyans Can Go to Germany
There are several legal and structured ways for Kenyans to move to Germany:
1.Student Visa – For University or College Education
Requirements:
- University acceptance letter (from a recognized German institution).
- Proof of financial means:
€11,208 in a blocked account for 1 year (€934/month). - Health insurance (public or private).
- Academic certificates and transcripts.
- Basic German (A2/B1) for courses in German; none required for English programs.
- Valid passport and motivation letter.
Timeline:
- DAAD – German Academic Exchange Service (course finder & scholarships)
- Study in Germany
- Uni-Assist – Application portal for many German universities
Student Visa for University/College in Germany (for Kenyans)
1.Eligibility Criteria
- Completion of KCSE or post-secondary education (A-levels, diploma, or university).
- Admission to a German university or preparatory college (Studienkolleg).
- Proof of financial means (~€11,208 in a blocked account).
- Health insurance (German or international).
- Basic language proficiency (English or German, depending on the program).
2. Required Documents (with KCSE)
| DOCUMENT | NOTES |
| KCSE certificate | Must be certified, translated into German, and recognized |
| Passport | Valid and not expiring soon |
| Admission letter | From a recognized German institution |
| Blocked account confirmation | Proof of funds (~€11,208/year) |
| Motivation letter | Why you want to study in Germany |
| CV (resume) | Include educational background and goals |
| Proof of language skills | IELTS/TOEFL (English) or Goethe Zertifikat (German) |
| School transcripts | From secondary school and any tertiary education |
| Passport-sized photos | Biometric format |
| Health insurance | Valid for Germany |
3. What Must Be Done to the KCSE Certificate
| STEP | DESCRIPTION |
| Certification | Have it certified by the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) or the issuing school. |
| Translation | Translate the KCSE and other documents into German by a certified translator. |
| Recognition | Use anabin.kmk.org to check if your certificate is recognized. You may need to attend a Studienkolleg (prep course) if KCSE alone isn’t enough. |
| Apostille (if required) | In some cases, you may need to get documents legalized at the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kenya. Check with the German embassy in Nairobi. |
4. Timeline
| TASK | DURATION |
| University application | Start 6–12 months before semester start |
| Blocked account setup | 2 weeks (via Fintiba, Expatrio, etc.) |
| Visa appointment | Book 3+ months early via German TSL house, Nairobi |
| Visa processing | Usually 4–12 weeks after intervie |
Useful Links:
2. Ausbildung – Vocational Training While You Work
Ausbildung is a hands-on vocational training program where you study and get paid. Perfect for Kenyans with technical or diploma-level training.
Popular fields:
- Nursing & elderly care
- Hospitality
- IT
- Mechanics / Mechatronics
- Culinary arts
- Electricians & Technicians
Requirements:
- Certificate/diploma in a related field (TVET level or higher)
- German language (at least B1 level)
- Job offer or placement from a German company
- Motivation letter, CV, and certificates
- Visa application with Ausbildung contract
3. Skilled Worker Visa – For Professionals
If you have a university degree or recognized vocational training and experience in a shortage profession (like healthcare, IT, or engineering), you can apply for a Skilled Worker Visa.
Requirements:
- Recognized qualification (check via ANABIN)
- German language skills (usually B1-B2 depending on job)
- Valid job offer from a German employer
- Work experience
4. Au Pair – For Young People (18–26)
Live with a host family and help with childcare while learning German culture.
Requirements:
- Age: 18–26
- Basic German (A1 level)
- Clean background, good health
- Willing to stay for 6–12 months
This is a great first step if you’re looking for cultural exchange and a way into Europe.
5. Job Seeker Visa – Look for Work in Germany
This visa allows you to go to Germany for up to 6 months to search for a job.
Requirements:
- Recognized degree or vocational qualification
- Proof of financial means
- German language (recommended B1/B2)
- Motivation letter & plan
Language: How Much German Do You Need?
- University courses: Some are in English, especially at master’s level
- Ausbildung & work: Usually need B1 or B2 German
- Au Pair: Minimum A1
Study German in Kenya at Sanifu College or other certified language centers. You’ll also need to pass exams like Goethe Zertifikat.
Step-by-Step Process to Germany
- Choose your pathway (Student, Ausbildung, Work, etc.)
- Meet qualifications (academic + language)
- Apply for schools or jobs
- Secure funding or contracts
- Gather documents (passport, KCSE, diplomas, CV, language certificate, etc.)
- Apply for your visa at the German Embassy in Nairobi
- Attend interview & wait for visa approval
- Fly to Germany!
Visa Application Tips
- Book your visa appointment early on the German Embassy website
- Ensure all documents are original and translated where needed
- Be honest during your interview
- Show strong motivation and a clear plan for your stay
Final Words
Germany offers real opportunities — but it takes planning, patience, and preparation. Whether you’re a recent graduate, a diploma holder, or someone with work experience, there is a path for you.
Bonus: Support Resources
- German Embassy Nairobi
- DAAD Kenya – Study in Germany
- Sanifu College, Thika – for language courses
- Ausbildung platforms: ausbildung.de, jooble.org, make-it-in-germany.com
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