Germany Introduces New Visa Rules Ahead of 2027 DAAD Scholarship Intake

Germany has introduced new visa application rules for students planning to study in the country under the 2027 DAAD scholarship programme.

The new changes are expected to affect many Kenyan students and other international applicants who wish to continue their studies in Germany.

Under the updated rules, applicants will now face stricter requirements during the visa application process. The changes include higher financial proof requirements, tighter document verification, and the removal of the visa appeal process.

One of the biggest changes is the amount of money students must show before getting approval. Applicants will now be required to have at least Ksh1.8 million (€11,904) in a blocked account.

The money must be deposited before the visa is approved. Students will then receive the funds slowly every month to help them cover living expenses while studying in Germany.

German authorities say the requirement is meant to ensure students can support themselves financially during their stay in the country without struggling.

Another major change is the removal of the visa appeal process. Previously, students whose visa applications were rejected could request a review and sometimes get approval after reconsideration.

Under the new system, rejected applicants will no longer have that option. Instead, they will only be allowed to challenge the decision through German courts, a process that could be expensive and take more time.

Germany has also introduced additional academic checks for students from countries such as China, India, and Vietnam through the APS verification system. The process is meant to confirm whether academic certificates and documents are genuine.

In addition, Germany has moved many visa services online through its Consular Services Portal. Applicants can now submit forms and documents digitally, although biometric appointments at embassies will still be required.

The changes come at a time when many Kenyan students are preparing applications for study opportunities and scholarships in Germany.

For years, the DAAD scholarship programme has helped thousands of Kenyan students study in Germany in courses such as engineering, natural sciences, technology, and social sciences.

Education experts believe the tougher rules could make the application process more challenging for some students, especially those struggling to meet the new financial requirements.