Get An Austrian Visa In Kenya: A Simple Guide

how to get austrian visa in kenya

To obtain an Austrian visa in Kenya, you must submit your application at the Austrian Embassy in Nairobi. The VFS Global Austrian Embassy Visa Application Centre in Nairobi accepts applications for Schengen Visas. Alternatively, if you do not reside in Kenya, you can apply at the Austrian Embassy in Nairobi or at one of the Schengen embassies in other countries. Travelers to Kenya from Austria must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for tourism purposes.

Characteristics Values
Where to apply Austrian Embassy in Nairobi
Application centre VFS Global Austrian Embassy Visa Application Centre
Address 5th Floor, Parkfield Building, Muthaiga Drive, Off Waiyaki Way, Westlands, Nairobi, Kenya
Old application centre French embassy
Public holidays in 2020 N/A
Passport requirements All holders of Kenyan passports must go through a consultation process

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Visa application centre location

The Austria Visa Application Centre in Kenya is located in Nairobi, specifically in the Upper Hill area of the city. The precise location is:

> Austria Visa Application Centre,

> Upper Hill Road,

> Upper Hill,

> Nairobi, Kenya

This visa application centre is where individuals can submit their visa applications and supporting documents for review. It is important to note that this location is specifically for the submission and collection of visa applications and not for interviews or biometric data collection, which may be required as part of the visa application process.

The centre is open during regular business hours, typically Monday to Friday, from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm or 5:00 pm. Check the website or contact the centre for the latest operating hours, as these may change due to public holidays.

When visiting, bring all necessary documentation: application form, passport, supporting documents, and proof of visa fee payment. Arrive early or on time; late arrivals may not be accommodated, and volume of applicants can vary, affecting waiting times.

The location is generally accessible, including for individuals with special needs or disabilities. If specific accommodations are required, contact the centre in advance to ensure arrangements can be made.

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Required documents

To obtain an Austrian visa in Kenya, you must submit your application at the Austrian Embassy in Nairobi. You can also apply at the VFS Global Austrian Embassy Visa Application Centre in Nairobi or at one of the Schengen embassies listed below. Please note that the VFS is an external service provider and has no role in the decision-making process.

  • A valid Kenyan passport. Please note that as of December 1, 2017, all holders of Kenyan passports must go through a consultation process.
  • A completed visa application form.
  • Proof of travel medical insurance from an accepted insurance company. A list of accepted insurance companies can be found on the BMEIA website.
  • Proof of financial means to support your stay in Austria, such as bank statements or payslips.
  • Documentation of your travel plans, including flight reservations, hotel bookings, or a letter of invitation from your host in Austria.
  • A recent passport-sized photograph.
  • Visa fee payment receipt.

Please ensure that you carefully review the required documents and consult the official websites for the most up-to-date and comprehensive information.

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Passport requirements

To apply for an Austrian visa in Kenya, you must meet the passport requirements as outlined below:

  • Valid Passport: Ensure that you have a valid passport that will remain current for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area. Your passport should also have at least two blank pages for visa stamps.
  • Previous Passports (if applicable): If you have any previous passports, especially if they contain

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Application processing time

The application processing time for an Austrian visa in Kenya depends on the type of visa and the method of application.

Tourist Visa

The Austrian tourist visa allows Kenyans to visit Austria for sightseeing, recreation, and relaxation. It can be a single, double, or multiple-entry visa, usually a Type C or D visa. The application for a tourist visa should be done at least 15 days before the planned date of departure.

Business Visa

The Austrian business visa allows its holder to meet with partners, negotiate and sign contracts, and attend trade fairs, conferences, and business summits. It can be a single, double, or multiple-entry visa. The application for this visa cannot be done more than 3 months prior to departure.

Student Visa

The student visa allows Kenyans who have been accepted into one of the institutions in Austria to study. Applicants must provide a letter of acceptance from the institution, written on the institution's letterhead, as proof of eligibility.

Work Visa

Those who wish to work in Austria will need to provide additional documents to qualify for a work visa. The specific documents required vary on a case-by-case basis.

Application Methods

There are two main methods to apply for an Austrian visa: the online method and the direct embassy application method. The online method is suitable for short-term trips of up to 90 days, such as tourism and sporting events. For long-term visas, such as work or study visas, applicants need to visit the Austrian embassy in Nairobi to submit their application in person.

It is important to note that governments do not guarantee processing times, so applicants should submit their applications as early as possible. Most applications are typically approved within 5 business days.

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Travel restrictions

As of November 2024, Kenyan citizens must obtain a visa before travelling to Austria. This is also known as the Austria Type C Schengen Visa. The visa is valid for 3 months and must be used within 90 days of issuance.

The Austria Sticker visa application process for Kenyan citizens is straightforward, as long as the necessary documents and information are provided accurately. The requirements for the visa include:

  • A valid Kenyan passport with at least 6 months of validity beyond the intended stay in Austria and at least one blank page for the visa stamp
  • A completed application form, filled out accurately and legibly
  • A passport photo that meets the specific requirements set by Austrian authorities, such as size, background colour, and facial expression
  • A letter from your employer on company letterhead, with contact details, stating that a leave of absence has been granted, the purpose and duration of the trip, and confirmation that you will be returning to your current job

If you plan to stay in Austria for more than 90 days, you should apply for a visa D, which entitles the holder to stay in Austria for up to 6 months. The issuance of a visa D depends on the information provided by the applicant and whether the intended stay in Austria for more than 90 days is sufficiently documented. An extension of a D visa in Austria is not possible.

Additionally, Austria has no COVID-19 travel restrictions in place at this time. However, masks are required on public transport, in taxis, and when entering shops offering essential services.

Frequently asked questions

You can apply for an Austrian visa at the Austrian Embassy in Nairobi or the VFS Global Austrian Embassy Visa Application Centre.

No, applications can no longer be submitted at the French embassy.

The processing time can vary depending on the specific circumstances. However, once approved, you will receive your eVisa via email, along with the necessary instructions for your travel.

The requirements depend on your destination and passport. It is recommended to consult the official websites of the Austrian or Kenyan governments for detailed and up-to-date information.

Yes, Austrian citizens need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to visit Kenya for tourism. The application can be submitted online, and most applications are approved within 5 business days.

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