Schengen Visa from Kenya 2026

Kenyan citizens need a Schengen visa to visit any of the 27 Schengen area countries in Europe. A single Schengen visa allows travel across all member states for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Schengen Area Countries

A Schengen visa allows entry to all 27 member states:

  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Bulgaria
  • Croatia
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • Italy
  • Latvia
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Netherlands
  • Norway
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Romania
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland

Visa Fees

CategoryFee (EUR)Fee (KES approx.)
AdultsEUR 80~KSH 13,600
Children 6-11EUR 40~KSH 6,800
Children under 6FreeFree
VFS service charge~EUR 25-40~KSH 4,250-6,800

Application Steps

  1. Determine the Correct Embassy

    Apply at the embassy of the country where you will spend the most time (main destination). If visiting multiple countries equally, apply at the embassy of your first entry point.

  2. Book VFS Global Appointment

    Most European embassies in Nairobi use VFS Global for Schengen visa applications.

  3. Complete Application Form

    Download from the relevant embassy website or fill in at VFS.

  4. Gather Documents

    See checklist below. All documents must be originals with copies.

  5. Submit at VFS & Provide Biometrics

    Fingerprints and photo captured at VFS. First-time applicants must attend in person.

  6. Wait for Processing

    Standard: 15 calendar days. Peak season or additional checks: up to 45 days.

  7. Collect Passport

    Collect from VFS or opt for courier delivery.

Required Documents

  • Valid passport (2+ blank pages, issued within last 10 years, valid 3+ months beyond return)
  • Completed Schengen visa application form (signed)
  • Two passport photos (35x45mm, white background, recent)
  • Travel insurance (minimum EUR 30,000 coverage, valid in all Schengen states)
  • Flight itinerary (round trip reservation - do not buy tickets before approval)
  • Hotel bookings or host invitation letter with accommodation proof
  • Bank statements (last 3-6 months)
  • Employment letter (dates, salary, leave approval)
  • Business registration (if self-employed)
  • If sponsored: sponsor bank statements, invitation letter, proof of relationship
  • Previous visas or travel stamps

Where to Apply in Nairobi

CountryApplication ViaNotes
FranceTLS Contact NairobiAlso covers Monaco
GermanyVFS Global NairobiAlso covers Austria, Switzerland for Kenyans
ItalyVFS Global NairobiPopular for tourism
NetherlandsVFS Global NairobiAlso covers Belgium, Luxembourg
SpainBLS International NairobiBeach and city tourism
GreeceVFS Global NairobiIsland holidays

Tips for Approval

  • Strong ties to Kenya: Employment, property, family, business registration
  • Consistent bank balance: Show steady income, not sudden large deposits
  • Clear itinerary: Day-by-day plan showing what you will do in Europe
  • Travel insurance: Must specifically cover Schengen zone with EUR 30,000 minimum
  • Travel history: Previous international travel (especially UK/US/Schengen) strengthens your application
  • Apply early: Submit 4-6 weeks before travel (but no earlier than 6 months)

Frequently Asked Questions

Apply at the embassy of the country where you will spend the most nights. If equal nights in multiple countries, apply at the embassy of your first entry point into the Schengen area.

A short-stay Schengen visa allows up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This applies to the total time spent across all Schengen countries combined.

Travel medical insurance with minimum EUR 30,000 coverage, valid in all Schengen states, covering emergency medical treatment, hospitalisation, and repatriation. Buy from a reputable insurer - many Kenyan insurers offer Schengen-compliant policies.

No. The UK is not part of the Schengen area. You need a separate UK visa. See our UK visa guide for details.

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