Welcome to Kenya Visa Guidelines
The Republic of Kenya regulates entry and stay of foreigners through the Kenya Visa Regulations established under the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act, 2011. The Department of Immigration Services is the principal government agency responsible for administering these regulations.
Important Notice: All travelers to Kenya must possess a valid visa unless exempted by regulations. The Kenyan eVisa system allows eligible nationals to apply online before travel. Visa-on-arrival is available for select nationalities at designated ports of entry.
Types of Visas Available
Kenya offers several visa types depending on the purpose of travel:
Single Entry Tourist Visa
This visa is suitable for visitors traveling to Kenya for tourism, sightseeing, or visiting family and friends.
Requirements:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
- Completed visa application form
- Two recent passport-sized photographs
- Proof of travel arrangements (flight itinerary)
- Proof of accommodation in Kenya
- Evidence of sufficient funds for the stay
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if applicable)
Validity and Conditions:
- Valid for 90 days from date of issue
- Allows single entry into Kenya
- Maximum stay of 90 days per entry
- Non-extendable (visa runs not permitted)
Business Visa
For individuals traveling to Kenya for business-related activities such as meetings, conferences, or contract negotiations.
Requirements:
- All requirements for tourist visa
- Invitation letter from Kenyan host company/organization
- Letter from employer stating purpose of travel
- Business registration documents (if applicable)
Validity and Conditions:
- Valid for 90 days from date of issue
- Allows single or multiple entries (depending on type)
- Maximum stay of 90 days per entry
- Does not permit employment in Kenya
Transit Visa
For travelers passing through Kenya to another destination.
Requirements:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
- Confirmed onward ticket to final destination
- Visa for final destination (if required)
Validity and Conditions:
- Valid for transit within 72 hours
- Does not permit leaving airport in some cases
- Single entry only
East Africa Tourist Visa
Multiple entry visa allowing travel between Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda.
Requirements:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
- Completed visa application form
- Two recent passport-sized photographs
- Travel itinerary covering all three countries
- Proof of accommodation
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate
Validity and Conditions:
- Valid for 90 days from date of issue
- Multiple entries between Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda
- Must be used within 90 days of issue
- Non-extendable and non-convertible.
Multiple Entry Visa – Ideal for frequent travelers, granting multiple entries within a given period.
Work Visa – Required for individuals planning to work, volunteer, or engage in long-term projects.
Visa Application Process
Since 2021, Kenya has implemented an e-Visa system, making the application process completely online. All travelers must apply for their visas before arrival via the official Kenyan e-Visa website.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Create an account on the Kenya eVisa portal.
- Fill out the application form with personal details, travel purpose, and other required information.
- Upload necessary documents, including a passport copy (valid for at least six months), passport-sized photos, and supporting travel documents.
- Pay the visa fee, which is typically $51 for a Single Entry Visa (prices may vary).
- Wait for processing, which takes 2 to 5 business days (recommended to apply at least a week before travel).
For transit passengers who remain in the airport and do not enter Kenya, a visa is not required.
Health & Vaccination Requirements
Kenya has strict health and vaccination requirements for travelers:
- Yellow Fever Vaccine is mandatory if arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission.
- Other recommended vaccines include Typhoid, Hepatitis A & B, Cholera, and Rabies .
Key Travel Guidelines for Kenya Updated
- COVID-19 Restrictions: While Kenya has lifted most COVID-19 travel restrictions, travelers should check the latest entry requirements before departure.
- Security Measures: Travelers should remain cautious in urban areas and avoid isolated places at night.
- Currency & Payments: The Kenyan Shilling (KES) is the official currency, but credit cards and mobile payments (M-Pesa) are widely accepted.
- Local Laws: Kenya enforces strict regulations on wildlife protection, drug possession, and public conduct.
Visa Fee Structure 2024
All fees are in United States Dollars (USD) and are non-refundable once the application is processed. Payment is made through the eVisa portal using major credit/debit cards.
Standard Visa Fees
| Visa Category | Visa Type | Validity | Fee (USD) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Entry Tourist Visa | Single Entry | 90 days | $51 | 2-7 business days |
| Transit Visa | Single Entry | 72 hours | $21 | 1-3 business days |
| Multiple Entry Visa | Multiple Entry | 6-12 months | $101 | 5-10 business days |
| Business Visa | Single Entry | 90 days | $83 | 3-7 business days |
| Business Visa | Multiple Entry | 6-12 months | $201 | 7-14 business days |
| Student Visa | Multiple Entry | Duration of study | $53 | 10-15 business days |
Additional Service Fees
| Service Type | Description | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Extension | Extension of stay for single entry visa holders | $53 |
| Express Processing | Expedited processing (24-48 hours) | $30 |
| Visa Re-issue | Replacement for lost or damaged visa | $20 |
| Visa Endorsement | Change of visa conditions or particulars | $40 |
💳 Payment Information
Payment Methods: Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted through the secure eVisa portal. Bank transfers are not accepted for eVisa applications.
Fee Changes: The Department of Immigration Services reserves the right to modify fees without prior notice. Always check the current fees on the official website before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Quick Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
- Single Entry Visa: Tourism, business, or medical visits.
- Transit Visa: Short stopovers while traveling onward.
- East Africa Tourist Visa: Travel to Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.
- Courtesy & Diplomatic Visas: For official travel.
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Confirmed travel itinerary
- Hotel booking or invitation letter
- Return or onward ticket
- Single Entry Visa: USD 50
- Transit Visa: USD 20
- East Africa Tourist Visa: USD 100
Kenya eVisa processing usually takes:
- 2–5 working days
- May take longer during peak travel seasons
No. Kenya has replaced visa-on-arrival with an online eVisa system. Travelers must apply and receive approval before departure.
A single-entry tourist visa allows a stay of up to 90 days.
No. Employment is not permitted on a tourist visa. A valid work permit is required.
- Incorrect or incomplete application
- Invalid passport
- Unclear travel purpose
- False or misleading information
Note: Kenya visa rules may change. Always check official government sources before applying.