Yes, a visa is required to travel from Kenya to Netherlands.
Apply with iVisa· from €228
Do I need a visa for Netherlands from Kenya?
Discover visa requirements for your trip
Yes. Kenyan citizens need a Schengen short-stay (Type C) visa to visit the Netherlands as tourists.
Kenya is not on the Schengen visa-exemption list. A Kenyan national planning a tourist trip of up to 90 days to the Netherlands must obtain a visa before departure. The application is lodged from within Kenya through the Netherlands' accredited partner.
Do you need a visa?
Yes — a Schengen short-stay (Type C) visa is mandatory for Kenyans travelling to the Netherlands for tourism. It allows up to 90 days within any 180-day period across the Schengen area. The Netherlands must be your main destination (or first point of entry) for you to lodge the application with them.
How and where to apply
Kenyan applicants apply inside Kenya, normally through the VFS Global centre acting for the Netherlands embassy in Nairobi. Book an appointment online, complete the Schengen application form and attend in person so your biometrics (photo and fingerprints) can be captured. The final decision rests with the Dutch consular authorities.
Documents and fees
The standard adult Schengen visa fee is around €90, plus a VFS service charge. Assemble a valid passport, the signed form, a compliant photo, travel medical insurance covering at least €30,000, proof of accommodation, a return itinerary and evidence of sufficient funds. A yellow-fever vaccination certificate may be requested depending on your routing.
Processing time and practical tips
Processing usually takes 15–45 days; apply several weeks ahead and no earlier than six months before travel. Appointment slots in Nairobi can be scarce in peak season. Confirm every fee and requirement on the official site before paying.
Common mistakes / good to know
The most frequent error is applying to the wrong Schengen country — choose the one where you will spend most of your time. Weak insurance or thin financial evidence often leads to refusal. Avoid buying non-refundable tickets before your visa is granted.
Official sources
Information verified on July 8, 2026.
Essential Netherlands information
The Netherlands is a Western European country famous for its polders, windmills, and open economy. With a dense population and a prosperous economy focused on trade and services, it is a major logistics hub in Europe. The country faces challenges such as rising sea levels and housing shortages.
Weather in Amsterdam
Practical travel information
- Néerlandais
- Frison
Essential preparations
- Police : 110
- Ambulance : 112
- Fire brigade : 112
Discover the best activities and experiences in Netherlands
- ✅ Free cancellation up to 24h before
- 🌍 Over 150,000 activities worldwide
- ⭐ Verified reviews from real travelers
- 💬 24/7 customer support
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a visa to travel to Netherlands 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 Netherlands?▾
The tourist visa allows a stay of 5 years.
What other visa types exist for Netherlands?▾
Depending on the purpose of stay, Netherlands offers among others: EU Blue Card, Highly Skilled Migrant / Work permit, Self-employed entrepreneur visa, Orientation year (zoekjaar), Study visa, Researcher visa.
Data verified on 23/07/2026
Other visas from Kenya
Visa alerts and regulations
Receive the latest visa updates and travel advice
We will never share your email. Unsubscribe at any time.