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Sweden Visa for Kenya Citizens 2026

Visa Required

Kenyan citizens need a Schengen short-stay visa (Type C) to visit Sweden — applications are submitted through VFS Global in Nairobi; the fee is EUR 90, with standard processing of 15 calendar days.

Guide last updated September 26, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid at least 3 months beyond the intended departure date, issued within the last 10 years, with at least 2 blank pages
  • Completed Schengen visa application form
  • Two recent passport-size photos, 35x45mm, white background, taken within the last 6 months
  • Travel medical insurance covering at least EUR 30,000 valid across the Schengen area
  • Confirmed round-trip flight booking
  • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter from a host in Sweden)
  • Bank statements for the last 3-6 months and an employer letter or business registration
  • Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) captured at the VFS centre for first-time or lapsed applicants

Visa types

  • Airport Transit Visa (Type A) — for travelers changing flights through a Swedish airport without entering the Schengen area
  • Short-stay Schengen Visa (Type C) — single, double, or multiple entry, valid up to 90 days within any 180-day period; covers tourism, business, and family visits
  • National Visa (Type D) — for work, study, or long-term stays, applied for directly with the Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket) rather than through VFS

How to apply

  • Applications are lodged through VFS Global's Sweden visa application centre in Nairobi, which represents the Swedish Migration Agency for short-stay visas. Book an appointment online, complete the Schengen application form, and attend in person to submit documents and biometrics. Apply no earlier than 6 months and no later than 15 days before travel. Decisions are communicated by VFS, and passports can be collected in person or via courier.

Fees & processing time

  • Visa fee: EUR 90 (approx. KES 12,500) for adults; EUR 45 for children aged 6-12; free under 6
  • VFS service fee: approximately KES 6,500 in addition to the visa fee
  • Standard processing time: 15 calendar days, extendable to 30-45 days if additional documents are requested
  • No formal express service is offered for Schengen visas processed through Nairobi

Tips for Kenya travelers

  • Apply at least 3-4 weeks ahead of travel to buffer against processing delays
  • Common rejection reasons include weak proof of funds, unclear travel purpose, or a short or absent prior travel history
  • If visiting family or friends, ensure the Swedish host completes and notarizes an official invitation letter
  • VFS Nairobi is the sole authorized submission point for Sweden visas from Kenya
  • Extensions inside Sweden are rarely granted and require exceptional circumstances via Migrationsverket

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.