Jomo Kenyatta International Airport [Photo Kenya Airports Authority]
Kenya’s ambassador to France – Judi Wakhungu has made public a new visa requirement for Kenyans.
In a statement, Wakhungu informed Kenyans entering the Schengen territory on transit that they will be required to apply for a Transit Schengen visa before leaving the country.
“Any Kenyan who enters the Schengen territory in order to change their means of transport (air/sea) must apply for a Transit Schengen Visa before leaving Kenya,” said Wakhungu.
For instance, a Kenyan traveling to Asia or the UK with a connecting flight through Amsterdam or Paris, will have to apply for a Transit Schengen visa before leaving the country.
Airlines with connecting flights through Europe are likely to be affected as travelers seek out alternatives.
The Schengen territory is made up of 26 countries including; Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, and Switzerland.
Since many European countries are in the Schengen territory, many Kenyans planning trips to various destinations with connecting flights in Europe will have to reorganize their travel plans.
However some Kenyans may be exempted on grounds of:
- Holding a diplomatic passport.
- Is a family member of a citizen of the EU, EEA or Switzerland.
- Holds a valid visa issued by a Schengen state, a member state of the European Union or the European Economic Area, Canada, Japan or the United States
- Holds a valid resident permit issued by a Schengen state, a Member State of the European Union or the European Economic Area, the Principality of Andorra, Canada, Japan, Republic of San Marino or the United States
- Is a flight crew member national of a contracting party to the Chicago Convention on International Civil Aviation.
A newsmaker, reporter and anchor at Pearl Radio, Ndalilah Sharon is witty and savvy.
She is also a firm believer of Christ.