Portugal Moves Visa Processing to Nairobi Embassy

Kenyan travellers to Portugal will now submit visa applications directly to the Portuguese Embassy in Nairobi, which opened a dedicated visa section on 5 March 2026.

The Kenya High Commission in Maputo confirmed the operational change in a notice dated 27 March, noting that the new visa section began receiving applications from early March. This follows the termination of Portugal’s long-standing arrangement with the Greek Embassy, which had processed Portuguese Schengen visas on Portugal’s behalf until 1 March.

Under the previous arrangement, the Greek Embassy issued short-stay Schengen visas for Kenyan citizens, allowing travel across 29 European countries. With the shift, all Portuguese visa matters are now handled directly by the Embassy in Nairobi. 

Officials expect this centralisation to simplify procedures, reduce confusion, and provide applicants with more direct access to consular services, including long-stay visas, work permits, and cultural exchange programmes. Some applicants previously relied on French consular services or VFS France centres, provided Portugal was declared as the primary destination. 

Documentation requirements, including proof of accommodation, travel insurance, bank statements, and valid passports, remain the same under Schengen rules. However, centralising services in Nairobi eliminates the need to coordinate with multiple embassies, streamlining the application process.

The announcement coincided with a high-level diplomatic visit by President Daniel Francisco Chapo of Mozambique to Nairobi on 26 March, where he and President William Ruto discussed trade, investment, and transport initiatives. Agreements reached included plans for a direct maritime corridor linking Mombasa to Mozambican ports and mutual recognition of driving licences, reflecting an emphasis on regional mobility and cooperation.