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Portugal Visa for Kenya Citizens 2026

Visa Required

Kenyan citizens need a Schengen short-stay visa to visit Portugal — apply through VFS Global Portugal in Nairobi; fee around EUR 80, standard processing about 15 working days.

Guide last updated September 25, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended departure from the Schengen area, with at least 2 blank pages
  • Completed and signed Schengen visa application form
  • Two recent passport-size photos (35x45mm, white background, Schengen specification)
  • Proof of accommodation for the full stay (hotel bookings or invitation letter)
  • Round-trip flight reservation
  • Bank statements from the last 3 months showing sufficient funds
  • Travel medical insurance with minimum EUR 30,000 coverage valid across the Schengen area
  • Proof of employment or business registration documents
  • Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) are captured at the VFS Global application centre

Visa types

  • Schengen Type C tourist visa: single, double, or multiple entry, valid for stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period, fee EUR 80
  • Business visa: same Type C category, requires an invitation letter from the Portuguese host company
  • Airport transit visa: only needed by nationals on Portugal's transit visa list who will not clear border control
  • National (Type D) visas for study, work, or long stays (including Portugal's popular digital nomad and residency routes) are a separate application handled directly by the Portuguese Embassy or VFS national visa desk

How to apply

  • Book an appointment through VFS Global Portugal's visa application centre in Nairobi
  • Complete the online Schengen visa application form and print the confirmation page
  • Attend the appointment in person to submit documents and biometrics
  • Pay the visa fee (EUR 80) plus the VFS service fee (approx. USD 25-35) at the centre
  • Apply no more than 6 months and no less than 15 working days before your planned travel date
  • If Portugal is a stop on a multi-country Schengen trip, apply at the consulate for your main destination or first point of entry

Fees & processing time

  • Schengen visa fee: EUR 80 (approx. USD 85-90)
  • VFS Global service fee: approximately USD 25-35
  • Total estimated cost: USD 110-130
  • Standard processing time: 15 working days, extending to 30-45 days during peak season or with additional document requests
  • No official express service for tourist Schengen visas; apply early

Tips for Kenya travelers

  • Apply at least 6-8 weeks before travel to allow for appointment slots and processing time
  • Common rejection reasons include insufficient funds, weak ties to Kenya, unclear itinerary, and incomplete insurance documents
  • Book refundable flights and accommodation until your visa is approved
  • If you plan onward travel to multiple Schengen countries, keep a clear day-by-day itinerary showing where you'll spend the most time
  • Portugal's Golden Visa and D7/D8 residency routes are separate from the tourist Schengen visa — research these directly if planning long-term relocation
  • Keep copies of all documents and your VFS receipt for the interview and for re-entry checks at the airport

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.