Yes, a visa is required to travel from Kenya to Switzerland.
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Do I need a visa for Switzerland from Kenya?
Discover visa requirements for your trip
Kenyan travellers need a Schengen short-stay (Type C) visa before visiting Switzerland for tourism. The adult fee is around €90 and processing usually takes 15–45 days.
Although it is not an EU member, Switzerland belongs to the Schengen Area, so Kenyan nationals need a visa for a tourist stay of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. You apply from within Kenya, with Switzerland as your main destination. Check every point with the official source before you file.
Do you need a visa?
Yes. A Kenyan passport is not visa-exempt for the Schengen Area, so a Type C short-stay visa is required before entering Switzerland. It allows tourist stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. When Switzerland is your only or primary destination, the Swiss authorities handle your application.
How & where to apply
In Kenya, Schengen visa applications for Switzerland are lodged with TLScontact in Nairobi, which receives files on behalf of the Swiss Embassy. Complete the form, book an appointment online and attend in person for your biometrics (fingerprints and a photo). Switzerland must be your main destination or your point of entry into the Schengen Area.
Documents & fees
Prepare a valid passport, a recent compliant photo, a return flight booking, proof of accommodation, evidence of funds and travel medical insurance covering at least €30,000 for medical costs and repatriation. The visa fee is normally €90 for an adult, excluding TLScontact's service charge. Confirm the full checklist and amounts with the official source.
Processing time & practical tips
Processing usually takes 15–45 days, so file early but no more than six months before travel. In Nairobi, appointments may need to be booked ahead during busy periods. A complete, consistent file (itinerary, bookings, funds) speeds up the decision.
Common mistakes / good to know
The classic mistake is applying to the wrong Schengen state: if you spend more nights elsewhere, Switzerland is not the country to petition. Never submit forged documents, a frequent cause of refusal. Finally, because Kenya is a yellow-fever area, check the official source for whether a vaccination certificate is required, and buy your insurance before the appointment.
Official sources
- Swiss State Secretariat for Migration (SEM)
- TLScontact (Switzerland)
- European Commission – Schengen visa policy
Information verified on July 8, 2026.
Essential Switzerland information
Switzerland is a landlocked country in Central Europe renowned for its neutrality, Alpine landscapes, and unique federal political system with four national languages. It hosts numerous international organizations in Geneva. The country excels in innovation, finance, and high quality of life.
Weather in Bern
Practical travel information
- Allemand
- Français
- Italien
- Romanche
Essential preparations
- Police : 117
- Ambulance : 144
- Fire brigade : 118
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Frequently asked questions
Do you need a visa to travel to Switzerland from Kenya?▾
Yes, a consular visa is required: applications are made at the embassy or consulate before departure (allowed stay: 5 years).
How long can you stay in Switzerland?▾
The tourist visa allows a stay of 5 years.
What other visa types exist for Switzerland?▾
Depending on the purpose of stay, Switzerland offers among others: Self-employed visa, B Permit (residence) - skilled worker, L Permit (short-stay work), G Permit (cross-border worker), Student permit (type B), Researcher visa.
Data verified on 23/07/2026
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