Do travelers with Schengen visa need Kenya visa to enter Kenya
YES, travelers will need to obtain the Kenya eTA or online visa to enter Kenya, even if they have a Schengen visa.
Having a Schengen visa does not mean that the traveler will be exempted from requiring the Kenya eTA, whether the traveler needs the visa to enter Kenya, solely depends on the nationality, and not based on holding the Schengen visa.
Here is a detailed explanation about what the Schengen visa is, can you enter Kenya with a Schengen visa, why you need the Kenya visa to enter Kenya, requirements for Kenya online visa and more.
What is the Schengen Visa? How Does it Actually Work?
The Schengen visa is a short stay visa allowing for foreign travelers to travel within the Schengen area, i.e. visit 27 European countries freely, without having to apply for different European countries. The Schengen visa can be used for short stays in 27 European countries for reasons related to tourism or business, with a validity period of 180-days and allows travelers to stay in the Schengen countries for a maximum of 90 days.
The Schengen visa is globally recognized because of its strict verification process to obtain it. While applying for the Foreign travelers will have to furnish all documents like passport, itinerary, travel insurance, evidence of funds and so on. Since this visa is obtained after strict checking, many think that holding this visa will let them enter other countries, other than European countries.
Country-Specific Nature of Visas: What travelers need to know
Before entering any country, foreign travelers must know about the country specific visas or region specific permissions. A visa issued by a particular country does not have authority over other countries' entry policies, it is limited to their jurisdiction only.
For example with the:
- US visa: Travelers are allowed to enter only the United States
- Schengen visa: It is limited to the Schengen area, i.e. 27 European countries
- Kenya visa: For entry into Kenya only
Every country has set certain immigration rules and regulations and are allowed to enter their land only after following them. These policies are set for maintaining:
- Security of the country
- Enhance Diplomatic Relationships
- Developing the Economy of the country
- Treaties signed, and Bilateral or multilateral agreements
So foreign travelers must know that even if some travelers have a valid Schengen visa, they cannot abide by the immigration rules set by the Kenyan government. It is important for the foreign travelers, even with the Schengen visa, to obtain the Kenya eTA to enter the country.
What is the Kenya eTA visa? Who can Apply?
The Kenya eTA is an electronic travel authorization, allowing travelers to apply for the visa online and submit the application online. There is no need for the applicants to visit the embassy to submit the application physically or submit the passport for getting physical visa stamps. This travel authority, hence is also referred to as the Kenya Online Visa or Kenya eVisa.
Foreign travelers should know that the Kenya eTA or Kenya Online Visa can be applied by travelers whose countries are listed as Kenya eta eligible countries, and has all the documents to apply for the eTA.
What are Kenya's Entry Requirements as per the current system?
For the convenience of the people and to enhance the security system of Kenya, the immigration department of Kenya no longer allows visa on arrival, instead it has introduced the Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) system, getting rid of the traditional visa application procedure for short term stay in the country.
As per the current system, key Kenya entry requirements include:
- Every foreign national entering Kenya must obtain the Kenya visa if they belong to Kenya eTA eligible country, otherwise apply for the traditional visa.
- Foreign travelers must have the approved Kenya eta visa before boarding the flight to Kenya
- The Kenya eTA is a short term visa, offering a validity period of 90 days and stays up to 90 days per entry.
- This short term stay visa can only be used for reasons supporting tourism, business, and family visits
Does a Schengen Visa Replace a Kenya Visa?
NO, a Schengen visa does not replace the Kenya Visa. Those foreign nationals even if you hold the Schengen visa, if you want to visit Kenya you should obtain the Kenya eTA (unless you belong to a specific exemption category) before your travel dates, otherwise you can't board the flight.
It is important for travelers to understand that a Schengen visa does not:
- Provide visa free entry into Kenya
- Replace the Kenya eTA or eVisa
- Serve as an alternate option of kenya eTA.
Those foreign travelers even if you have:
- Long-term Schengen residence permits
- Multiple-entry Schengen visa
- History of visiting European countries frequently
The travelers must stick to the rules and regulations as mandatory for the Kenya entry requirements, set by the immigration department of Kenya.
What Factors Determine Whether you Need the Kenya Visa?
The main factor that determines whether the traveler needs the Kenya eTA or Kenya Online Visa is the Nationality in the Passport of the traveler.
Your Nationality in the passport: Travelers should clearly know that the Kenya immigration department classifies travelers based on their nationality, rather than the visa they are holding, like the Schengen visa.
Take for example:
- A traveler with US passport will need the Kenya eTA
- Even a traveler with a German passport will need to obtain the Kenya eTA before boarding the flight to Kenya.
So, do know that travelers with a Schengen visa, even if they need to enter Kenya for short stay like for Kenyan Safari, need to obtain Kenya’s travel authorization.
What are the Exceptions and Special Cases for some foreign travelers?
Having the Valid Schengen Visa does not mean that you can skip the process of applying for the Kenya eTA, even for a short term visit. There are exceptions and special consideration only for travelers belonging to certain countries. Let's find out.
1. Visa-Exempt Nationalities:
There are certain countries which are visa exempted, citizens of those countries with a passport are not required to Kenya eTA. However travelers should still get the pre-travel authorization.
2. African Union Travel Policies
Certain African nations have agreements with Kenya that offer visa-free or simplified entry for their citizens. Travelers should know that:
- This policy is applicable to citizens holding passports of certain African nations.
- The European and Asian passport holders are not eligible for this facility, even if they hold the Schengen visa.
3. East African Tourist Visa
Travelers holding the East African Tourist Visa, which includes countries like Uganda and Rwanda, can avail the services. They can:
- With this visa travel between Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda.
- Offering multiple entry options within these three countries.
Why Countries Do Not Accept Each Other’s Visas
The main reason why countries do not accept each other countries visa, so that every country is able to keep a track of the people coming in and going out of their country, and for reason like:
1. Sovereignty: Every country has the right to protect its border, decide its own rules.
2. Security Screening: It is important to maintain the security of the country, so foreign travelers background check in advance helps to avoid any unwanted danger.
3. Diplomatic Agreements: Visa free travel depends on the Agreement and Treaties signed by the countries, not on your existing visa.
4. Immigration Control: It helps countries to manage Tourism flows, Labor migration, and Overstay risks.
What are the Common Misconceptions travelers with Schengen Visa have?
Misconception 1: They think Schengen visa is a global visa
What you must know: Do know, the Schengen visa is applicable within the Schengen Area
Misconception 2: They think Strong visas like Schengen visa can eliminate the need for other visas
What you must know: Schengen visa can be a strong visa but this does not mean you do not have to apply for the Kenya eTA. Every traveler entering Kenya for short stays (Tourism, Business) should apply for the Kenya eTA.
Misconception 3: They think Frequent Travel history removes visa requirements
What you must know: Even if you are a frequent international traveler, you must obtain the Kenya eTA.
Some Examples include:
Example 1: European traveler
Although you are a traveler from France, and have the Schengen Visa as well, you need to obtain the Kenya eTA, before heading to Kenya.
Example 2: Frequent international traveler
Even if you are someone who has visas like the Schengen visa, US visa or UK visa, as a traveler you still need the Kenya travel authorization.
What are the Documents Required for Kenya Entry
For entering Kenya legally, foreign nationals should have the following documents to enjoy a smooth and convenient entry:
- Approved Kenya eTA, electronic travel authorization
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity) from a Kenya eTA eligible country
- Recently clicked photograph, passport size and colored
- Complete Travel itinerary, your date of journey, return flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation, either a confirmed hotel room booking or invitation letter from the host with whom you will be staying.
- Sufficient funds in your account, covering the entire duration of your stay.
What is the Duration and Validity of Kenya Authorization
The duration of the approved Kenya eTA is 90 days, the stay period allowed is up to 90 days, and cannot be overstayed beyond the date offered to stay. There are different types of entries available, for tourism it is generally a single entry visa.
Beyond the date of stay, extensions are allowed only after submitting your request for extension, with proof of documents. The extension decision depends on the immigration officials.
The Role of a Schengen Visa (Indirect Benefits)
Holding a valid Schengen visa, does not mean that you are not required to obtain the Kenya eTA, but there are certain benefits the Schengen visa indirectly benefits like:
- Shows you have a good travel history
- You have a strong visa, meaning your background is clean
- Shows you are financially strong
- High chances of visa approval.
Key Takeaway
Whether you need a visa to enter Kenya, depends on your nationality, and not based on holding the Schengen visa. In simple terms:
- Schengen visa: For traveling within the 27 countries of Europe only
- Kenya: To enter Kenya, a separate visa/ eTA is required
READ MORE:
Kenya travel is a great concept, but you must be prepared. Besides your eTA, there are a couple of health matters that require attention, and that is primarily the Yellow Fever vaccination. Learn more at Vaccines for Travel to Kenya.
If you have any plans to enter Kenya for tourism, business or to transit, simply go for this hassle-free visa application process. But before that Check your eligibility for Kenya eTA and apply for Online Kenya Visa 4 days in advance of your flight.