How to obtain a visa to Luxembourg for Kenyan nationals
If you're a Kenyan national planing a visit to Luxembourg, whether for studies or work, your first concern is likely how to obtain a visa from Kenya to Luxembourg. Navigating through the intricate requirements, paperwork, and procedures can be daunting, especially for first-time applicants.
Luxembourg is a country of contrasts, with a small size and a population of 670,000 inhabitants, it is the least populated country in the European Union but despite this, Luxembourg has become a very attractive destination over the years. It offers enticing features such as a high standard of living, excellent salary compensations, favorable working conditions, and an incredible cultural and recreational scene. These factors draw a significant foreign population each year. Kenya, in particular, represents one of the less-represented countries, both as a percentage of the total Luxembourgish population and as a percentage of the foreign population.
How many Kenyans live in Luxembourg?
Before we head into the bureaucracy and visa procedures, let's take a look at the big picture and address some intriguing questions, such as how many Kenyans live in Luxembourg, how many arrive each year, and why.
The Kenyan population in Luxembourg is quite small, with only 73 Kenyans in the country. However, this number sees a slight increase each year, with a steady upward trend, nearly tripling the Kenyan population from 2013 when there were only 26 individuals.
In 2022, only 18 Kenyans came to live in Luxembourg, most for family or work-related reasons, with 8 individuals falling into the former category and 9 into the latter. Only one person arrived for studies in that year, a pattern that seems to have repeated over the past few years.
Total population
In terms of the percentage of the Kenyan population, it is very small. Concerning the total population, it represents only 0.01%, and in relation to the foreign population in Luxembourg, it represents 0.02%. In fact, the entire African population in Luxembourg is quite small, with most of the foreign population originating from the European Union. Portugal leads the list with an impressive figure of 92,101 citizens, followed by France with 49,104 citizens, Italy with 24,676 citizens, Belgium with 24,676 citizens, and Germany with 12,678 citizens.
Types of Luxembourg visas for Kenyan citizens
When obtaining a Luxembourg visa from Kenya, there are two main options based on the duration and nature of the stay: short-stay visas and long-stay visas. Additionally, depending on the purpose of the trip to Luxembourg, it may be necessary to apply for a residence permit. We'll also address this point by looking at when it's necessary to apply for it and the types of residence permits available.
It's important to note that the types of Luxembourg visas available for Kenyan citizens, as well as the procedures for obtaining them, are the same as those for any non-European foreigner.
Official government site
You can find more information about short and long-stay visas on the government's dedicated page at guichet.lu.
Short-stay visas for Luxembourg
Those intending to enter the country for a brief period should apply for a short-stay visa, also known as a type C visa. This visa allows transit or stays in Luxembourg and the Schengen area for a maximum of 90 days within 180 days.
Long stay visas for Luxembourg
Individuals planning to stay in Luxembourg for more than three months must apply for a long-stay visa, also known as a type D visa. In many cases, this visa is a necessary preliminary step for those aiming to become residents in Luxembourg.
Long-stay visa is intended for
- Holders of a temporary residence permit.
- Holders of a work permit for paid employment.
- Those who are going to join a family member who is an EU citizen.
- Those who want to carry out any other type of activities such as self-employed work, studies, research, or sports activities.
Work permit
Before applying for a D visa, you must request a work permit from the Luxembourg Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs.
Luxembourg Residence permits for Kenyans
If your question is how to migrate to Luxembourg from Kenya because your plans include settling in the country for more than a year, either for studying or working, it's necessary to consider that the procedure goes beyond obtaining a visa. While obtaining a long-stay visa (type D visa) is necessary, this is only the first step; obtaining a residence permit is also required.
Unlike a visa, a residence permit grants individuals the right to reside and carry out specific activities in Luxembourg for a longer period. There are many types of residence permits according to the type of activities intended in Luxembourg and the family relationships of those applying for residence. Some situations or entry motives associated with a specific residence permit include:
What is a titre de sejour?
Unlike a visa, a residence permit grants individuals the right to reside and engage in specific activities in Luxembourg for a more extended period. There are various types of residence permits based on the activities individuals plan to undertake in Luxembourg and their family relationships.
Some of the situations that have attached a specific resident permit or have a specific procedure include:
Each residence permit has its own set of requirements and procedures for application. These may include demonstrating specific qualifications, providing proof of employment or sponsorship, showing sufficient financial means, and adhering to the necessary documentation and administrative procedures.
Check our relocation guide for salaried workers
Application process for Luxembourg visa step-by-step
If you are wondering, how can I apply for a Luxembourg visa in Kenya, this section will answer your questions. We will guide you through the necessary steps to determine which type of visa you need and how to apply for it. The process involves crucial considerations such as deciding on the purpose of entry, gathering necessary documents, and finally submitting your visa application, so let's look at each step in more detail.
Decide on the grounds for entry
Clarifying the purpose of your entry into Luxembourg is the first step in the visa application process. There are different reasons for visiting Luxembourg, each requiring a specific type of visa and corresponding application procedures.
Tourist or family visits
Business entry to Luxembourg
Employment in Luxembourg as ground
Study related entry
Family reunification as entry ground
Private reasons as ground for entry
Collect the documents
Before proceeding with the visa application process, it's essential to ensure you have all the necessary documents in order. Collecting the required documents is a crucial step to demonstrate your eligibility and purpose of travel to Luxembourg. While the specific documents may vary depending on the type of visa and individual circumstances, there are general documents that are commonly required for most visa applications.
Below is a comprehensive list of the Luxembourg visa requirements for Kenyan citizens; however, it's important to note that additional documents may be necessary depending on the specific nature of your case. Ensure thoroughness in assembling the following documents to strengthen your application and facilitate a smooth processing experience.
Piece of advice
Depending on the type of visa, especially for short-term tourist visas, you may need to show a travel itinerary. Although there is the option of getting the airline ticket, this option is certainly a risky bet, as you are not sure of many things, including whether you will get visa approval. So, instead of emptying your pocket on buying an actual ticket, a generally accepted option is to submit a flight itinerary reservation.
Apply for necessary papers to stay in Luxembourg
The application process differs depending on whether you're applying for a C visa or a D visa. In both cases, you'll need to visit the Luxembourg Embassy.
There is no Luxembourg embassy in Kenya. Instead, you'll need to contact the Embassy of Belgium in Nairobi, which acts as Luxembourg's diplomatic representation.
The website of the Luxembourg Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs provides a list of all Luxembourg embassies worldwide.
Applicaiton for a C visa
You must request an appointment at the Embassy of Belgium in Nairobi, ensuring that the appointment day falls at least 15 days before the planned visit and no more than 6 months before it begins. On the day of the appointment, you'll need to personally bring all the required documents and submit your application.
Application for a D visa
The process consists of two steps. First, you will need to apply for a temporary authorisation to stay, then submit a long-stay D visa application, when you are granted the approval of your stay from the Ministry.
This application is divided into three steps.
How long does it take to get a Luxembourg visa from Kenya?
Question of time
Applications for a Short-stay C visa are typically resolved within 15 days from the date of filing.
In Luxembourg, the processing time for short-stay C visas is normally completed within 15 days from the date of application. However, in certain circumstances, the process can take up to 30 or even 45 days.
On the other hand, the time taken to obtain a long-stay D visa in Luxembourg varies depending on the nature of the activities planned in the country. The processing time for these visas is determined accordingly.
Common reasons for visa rejection
Here are some key reasons why a visa application might be rejected. Take a careful look at these points to ensure the smooth processing of your application.
What to do if your visa got rejected unlawfully?
If your visa application is rejected, you can appeal the decision to the Administrative Tribunal. The appeal must be filed by a lawyer within 3 months from the notification of the resolution. You can find more information on how to proceed with this process on the government's dedicated page at guichet.lu.
How much it costs to get a visa to Luxembourg?
Finally, let's address a crucial detail: the Luxembourg visa price for Kenyans. The following table outlines the costs according to the type of visa. The cost of the visa will be determined based on the fees you need to pay in order to get it. A standard consular fee varies depending on the personal situation and status.
Besides, you will need to translate necessary documents, pay for the photos, and other visa-related expenses, but these costs are usually depending on your personal situation.
Type of visa | Fee in EUR | Fee in KES |
Short-stay visa (C) | 90 | ~ 12,509 |
Long-stay visa (D) | 50 | ~ 6,949 |
Visa for children between the age of 6 and 12 | 45 | ~ 6,255 |
Visa for children under 6 years of age and visas for pupils, students, and teachers accompanying them on school trips or educational study trips. | Free | Free |
Visa for researchers going abroad to carry out scientific research. | Free | Free |
Visa for representatives of non-profit making organizations aged 25 years at most who participate in seminars, conferences, or sports, cultural or educational events. | Free | Free |
Visa for family members of an EU/EEA national | Free | Free |
Prices have changed
In June 2024, the fee for a Schengen visa increased. The revenue generated from visa applications will be reinvested to provide more resources, including staff, to process visa applications. This should reduce the waiting time for a Schengen visa appointment.
Application for a residence permit in Luxembourg for Kenyans
If you plan to stay in Luxembourg for an extended period, you'll likely need to apply for a residence permit in addition to the long-stay D visa. This process involves three additional steps.
Within 3 days of arriving in Luxembourg, you must submit an arrival declaration to the municipal authorities of your residence. Required documents include:
- A valid ID (passport, visa, or residence permit issued by another EU member state);
- The long-stay visa;
- A proof of address (such as a lease agreement or utility bill).
Keep the receipt
Upon submission, you'll receive a copy of the declaration as confirmation. You will need to send it with your package of documents for the Residence Permit.
The next step is to undergo a medical examination promptly, which comprises two tests:
Upon receiving the results, the Health Inspection of the Ministry of Health will issue a medical certificate and send it to the Immigration Department of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs for the residence permit application approval.
The application for a residence permit must be submitted within 3 months of arriving in Luxembourg to the Immigration Department of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs. This can be done online through MyGuichet.lu or by mail by sending the residence permit application form to the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs.
In both cases the following documents will be required:
- Copy of the passport;
- Copy of the visa;
- Copy of the declaration of arrical, issued by the commune office;
- Proof of suitable accommodation, such as a lease agreement, property deed, or other relevant documents;
- Proof of a 80 euros fee payment to the account IBAN LU46 1111 2582 2814 0000 (BIC: CCPLLULL, beneficiary: Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, Immigration Department; communication: residence permit for...).
What happens after application?
Upon approval, the applicant will receive a letter inviting them to schedule an appointment at the Immigration Department for a photo session and fingerprinting, which will be incorporated into the residence permit.
A few days after providing biometric data, the applicant will receive a notice to personally collect their residence permit card.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much does it cost to obtain a visa to Luxembourg for Kenyan nationals?
The visa fee varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for. For short-stay visas (type C), the fee is typically around 90 euros, and for long-stay visas (type D) or residency permit, the fee is 50 euros. Additionally, there may be service charges involved if you apply through a visa application center or embassy.
How long does it take to process a Luxembourg visa application from Kenya?
Do I need to provide proof of accommodation and financial means for my visa application?
Source: statistiques.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, mae.gouvernement.lu, www.netherlandsandyou.nl, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, kenya.diplomatie.belgium.be
We took photos from these sources: Amani Nation on Unsplash, self-made graphs with information from statistiques.public.lu