Kenyans planning to travel to Europe need to secure a Schengen visa as Kenyan passports do not allow visa-free access to the Schengen Area. This visa grants entry to 29 European countries for short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

Visa Costs

  • Adults pay €90 (around KSh 13,000 to KSh 15,000).
  • Children aged 6 to 12 pay €45 (about KSh 6,500 to KSh 7,500).
  • Children under six years are exempt from visa fees.
  • All fees are non-refundable regardless of application outcome.
  • Additional service fees apply through processing agents, such as TLScontact and VFS Global.

Application Requirements

Applicants must provide:

  • A valid Kenyan passport with at least three months' validity beyond the return date.
  • A completed and signed visa application form.
  • Two recent passport-sized photos meeting specifications.
  • Travel health insurance covering a minimum of €30,000 across all Schengen states.
  • Flight itinerary and accommodation details or a host invitation letter.
  • Bank statements from the last three to six months demonstrating sufficient funds.
  • Employment letter or business registration documents.

Financial Proof

Demonstrating stable financial means is critical, as 43% of Schengen visa refusals for Kenyans are due to insufficient financial documentation. Applicants are expected to show consistent income deposits rather than a one-time large transfer. The daily financial requirement varies between €50 and €95 depending on the country, meaning a 7-day trip requires proof of about €350 (approx. KSh 50,000).

Application Process in Nairobi

Several European embassies outsource visa processing to agents:

  • VFS Global handles Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Greece, and others.
  • TLScontact manages French visa applications.
  • BLS International processes Spanish visa applications.

Appointments are limited and often booked out quickly during peak travel seasons, with some unofficial resellers charging high fees for slots. Standard processing takes up to 15 calendar days but may extend to 45 days during busy periods or for additional checks. Applicants are advised to apply 4 to 6 weeks before travel.

Schengen Area Update

As of 2026, the Schengen Zone includes 29 countries following the accession of Bulgaria and Romania in 2025, allowing visa holders to travel freely within this area.