France Visa RequirementsFor Kenya passport holders
Kenyan citizens need a Schengen visa to visit France. The French Embassy in Nairobi processes applications, with Paris being one of the most popular European destinations for Kenyan tourists and business travellers.
Kenya passport holders require a visa to enter France.
Apply at the French Embassy in Nairobi (Barclays Plaza, Loita Street) or through TLScontact (French Visa Application Centre in Nairobi). Book an appointment well in advance. Required documents include a valid Kenyan passport (issued within 10 years, minimum 3 months validity beyond stay), Schengen application form, two recent passport photos, travel health insurance covering all Schengen states (minimum EUR 30,000), confirmed return flights, hotel bookings or invitation letter, bank statements (3-6 months), employment letter with leave confirmation, and payslips. The Schengen fee is EUR 90 (~$98 USD). Processing takes 10-15 business days.
France is part of the Schengen Area. Your stay counts toward the 90-day limit within any 180-day period for the entire Schengen zone. Learn more about Schengen rules →
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
3 months beyond departure from Schengen
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Allowed
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
Completed Schengen visa application form
Valid Kenyan passport (issued within last 10 years, 3 months validity beyond stay)
Two recent passport photos (35mm x 45mm, white background)
Travel health insurance (minimum EUR 30,000, valid in all Schengen states)
Confirmed return flight bookings
Hotel reservations or invitation letter from host in France
Bank statements (last 3-6 months)
Employment letter with salary and confirmed leave
Last 3 months payslips
Proof of ties to Kenya (employment contract, property, family)
Current Travel Situation
Kenya to France: What You Need to Know
France is a top European destination for Kenyan travellers, particularly for tourism to Paris, business travel, and academic exchanges. The French Embassy in Nairobi processes Kenyan Schengen visa applications. Kenya and France have cultural and development ties; many Kenyan scholars and professionals travel to France for conferences and partnerships. A French Schengen visa grants access to all 27 Schengen states for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
How to Get There
Air France operates direct Nairobi (NBO) to Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) flights. The direct flight takes approximately 9 hours. From Paris CDG airport, the RER B train takes 35 minutes to central Paris. Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa and KLM via Amsterdam are alternative routing options.
Money & Banking
France uses the euro. Kenyan Visa/Mastercard bank cards work in French ATMs and shops. Paris is one of Europe's more expensive cities; budget EUR 120-200 per day. Metro day passes (Navigo Jour) are the best value for exploring Paris. Local bistros and brasseries offer better value than tourist-area restaurants.
Practical Tips
Apply through TLScontact Nairobi (the designated French Visa Application Centre in the Westlands area) to submit documents and biometrics, or apply directly at the French Embassy. France is the most visited country in the world; the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Musee d'Orsay, Versailles, and the Loire Valley are among the unmissable attractions. Paris connects easily to other Schengen destinations by Eurostar or TGV.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there direct flights from Nairobi to Paris?
Yes. Air France operates direct flights from Nairobi (NBO) to Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG). The flight takes approximately 9 hours. Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa and KLM via Amsterdam are popular one-stop alternatives.
Where do I apply for a French Schengen visa in Kenya?
Apply through TLScontact Nairobi (the designated French Visa Application Centre in Westlands) or at the French Embassy in Nairobi (Barclays Plaza). Book your appointment online at france-visas.gouv.fr before attending in person.
Can I visit other Schengen countries with a French visa?
Yes. A French Schengen visa allows you to enter all 27 Schengen member states for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Apply at the French Embassy if France is your main or first destination.