Kenya passport → Netherlands

Netherlands visa for citizens of Kenya

Embassy / VFSShort-Stay Schengen Visa (C)

Citizens of Kenya need a visa for the Netherlands and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Short-Stay Schengen Visa (C)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Visa validity	90 days
Entries	Single entry
Processing time	15–45 days
Government fee	€90
Passport validity	At least 3 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Recent bank statements showing sufficient funds (at least €55 per day of stay).

How to apply

1
Prepare documents
Gather all required documents as per checklist.
2
Complete application form
Fill out the official Schengen visa application form online or manually.
3
Book appointment
Schedule an appointment at the VFS Global centre or Netherlands Embassy in Kenya.
4
Attend appointment
Submit documents, provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo), and pay the fee.
5
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 15 to 30 calendar days.
6
Collect passport
Passport returned via courier or pick-up at VFS centre.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport
Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond intended stay.
Completed visa application form
Download and sign the official Schengen visa form.
Passport-size photographs
Two recent photos meeting Schengen criteria.

Travel

Travel itinerary
Includes flight reservations and accommodation bookings.
Travel health insurance
Minimum €30,000 coverage for the entire Schengen area.
Proof of accommodation
Hotel booking or invitation letter from host.
Round-trip flight reservation
Confirmed or non-binding reservation.

Financial

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Must show sufficient funds for the trip.

Employment

Proof of employment or student status
Employer letter or school enrollment certificate.

Supporting

Cover letter explaining purpose of visit
Brief description of trip plans and ties to home country.
Visa fee payment receipt
Payment confirmation from VFS Global or embassy.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: €55 per day of stay (e.g., for a 10-day trip: €550)

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Sponsorship letter if funded by third party

Bank statements must be original and stamped by the bank.

Good to know

Apply well in advance (at least 15 days before travel) to allow processing time.
Ensure all documents are in English or Dutch, or accompanied by a certified translation.
Visa fees are non-refundable even if the application is rejected.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect documentation

Double-check the checklist and provide all required documents in the correct format.

Insufficient funds

Ensure bank statements show adequate balance for the intended stay.

Previous visa violations or overstay

Provide a clear explanation and evidence of compliance if applicable.

FAQ

Do citizens of Kenya need a visa for the Netherlands?

Citizens of Kenya need a visa for the Netherlands and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Short-Stay Schengen Visa (C).

How long can citizens of Kenya stay in the Netherlands?

Up to 90 days.

How much does the Netherlands visa cost for citizens of Kenya?

Government fee: €90.

How long does Netherlands visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of Kenya need for the Netherlands?

Valid passport; Completed visa application form; Passport-size photographs; Travel itinerary; Travel health insurance; Bank statements (last 3 months); and 5 more.

How long must my passport be valid for the Netherlands?

At least 3 months.

Plan your trip to the Netherlands

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