If you want to apply for a Schengen visa, please consider the following:
1. All visa applications have to be submitted at least 15 calendar days before the date of the intended departure.
2. An application submitted less than 15 calendar days before the intended departure may be accepted, but the applicant should bear in mind that the final decision might be taken after the intended date of departure.
3. Visa applications cannot be submitted earlier than three months before the start of the intended visit.
4. It is the applicant's responsibility to take the necessary precautions to respect the deadlines where an appointment system is in place.
5. Normal processing time for visa applications can take up to 15 calendar days.
6. When further scrutiny is needed, the deadline may be extended up to a maximum of 30 calendar days. Exceptionally, where additional documentation is required, the deadline may be extended up to a maximum of 60 calendar days after the application has been considered admissible.
Required documents
Applicants must submit the following documents as a minimum requirement when applying for a Schengen visa:
application form, duly filled in and signed personally by the applicant
one recent passport photograph (ICAO Norm)
passport (valid for at least three months after the expiration of the visa applied for) and photocopies of passport bio-data and any previous Schengen visas
Kenyan ID card in original and photocopy, or Kenyan residence permit for non-Kenyan passport holders
Travel health insurance valid for all Schengen states, covering all risks (minimum of EUR 30.000,--)
Non-refundable visa-fee (to be paid in KES)

Upon invitation by a company/business partner residing in the area.
proof of sufficient financial means (traveller cheques or bank statements or credit cards)
flight booking, and when collecting the visa, a non-transferable, non-refundable, non endorsable confirmed return ticket
sponsorship form ("elektronische Verpflichtungserklärung") from the company to be visited
or abstract of commercial register ("Handelsregister") (max. 3 months old)
processing fees 60,00 Euro

As additional documents may be required, it is highly recommended to contact the Embassy/Consulate in advance.
Please note: Incorrect or incomplete information in applications lead to the rejection of the application. There is no legal right to a visa. The applicant must submit through documentation credible evidence of the purpose of the visit and the willingness to return to the country of residence.

Thank you for this thread.



Who's been to Austria asaidie na some infor on weather,food(best foods to eat/order there),people,what to/what not to,how to/how not to,plus other important stuff that one should know?

@ Ash, I went through that site today and I think there's need to start practicing early. Europe is kinda strict and formal than the US where anything goes.
They didn't talk much about language -just the fact that they speak german,so what % of austrians speak English? I trust that it's a commonly spoken language in public otherwise I may have to learn the ABCD's.

Cultural taboos

There are no real taboos in Austria that do not apply in other Western countries. However, there are a number of taboos and issues that are considered inappropriate when dealing with your Austrian counterparts and you should observe these so as to avoid any inference of disrespect to views and ideals. Being aware of these will make your business dealings more pleasant and will assist you in building strong relationships with Austrian business people.

Do not discuss World War II or criticise Austria in general

Austrians are not Germans, even if they speak the same language! This is very important. Austria and Germany have very different customs.

The Austrians value their privacy and personal space immensely. Do not ask personal questions related to occupation, age, family or children if your relationship is in its infancy. Once you have a well-established relationship, those topics are okay. However, never speak about salary. Salary is an absolute taboo topic for Austrians.

Austrians are more formal and punctual than most of the rest of the world. They have prescribed roles and seldom step out of line.

Compliment carefully and sparingly – Austrians may find personal compliments embarrassing.

You should not lose your temper publicly. This is viewed as uncouth and a sign of weakness.

Stand up when an elder or higher ranked person enters the room.
Do not shout or be loud; do not put your feet on furniture

When making or answering a phone call, first introduce yourself by saying your name (most people use their last name, but you can also use your first name if you prefer). It is considered impolite if you don’t say your name even when you use other polite greetings such as “hello” or “good morning”.

It is impolite to cross your arm over people who are shaking hands.

It is rude to chew gum in public.

Talking while your hands are in your pockets is also considered impolite.

you will see a very tall bald headed Kenya lady . '''don't smile at her and a fat dreadlocked Kenyan guy who is okey if he handles your papers

@Kysse

Take the advice from the site with a pinch of salt as it only gives the worst case scenarios. Austrians are really not that uptight at all. Most will struggle to speak English for example shop attendants and they are generally open.

Yes, the northern Europeans are quite strict. As an example, if you drop in on an Austrian’s house without an invitation during meal times, most will politely invite you to sit at the table and talk with you while they finish eating without offering you anything. As an African, I find it absolutely mind-boggling rude not to offer an uninvited guest something to eat, even from my own plate, but the Austrians find it completely normal and don’t expect to be offered anything.

Generally speaking, you’ll love Austria, especially in the summer. Beautiful efficient country, good roads, interesting museums, and lots to see. Just relax and enjoy as they are also quite forgiving when dealing with foreigners.

Tip: try an Apfelstrudel with vanilla ice-cream or whipped cream or, like me, both