Is a visa required to travel to Kenya?

Before booking your dream safari to the Masai Mara, planning a beach getaway in Mombasa, or deciding which cool bar in Nairobi to enjoy a cold beer, ensure you've sorted out your visa for Kenya.

Fortunately, obtaining a tourist visa for Kenya is straightforward for many nationalities, with most granted quickly after an online application. We have all the details you need about Kenya visa applications, including costs, necessary documents, and which countries require a visa.

Am I required to get a visa for Kenya?

Most travelers (Category 2) must apply for an eVisa online prior to entering Kenya. Certain nationalities are exempt from needing a visa, classified as Category 1, while a few in Category 3 require referred visas, necessitating a visit to the nearest Kenyan embassy before departure.

William Ruto, the President of Kenya, recently unveiled a plan to eliminate all visa requirements for travelers from other African nations by 2024.

Who is eligible for visa-free entry to Kenya?

Citizens from a limited number of countries can enter Kenya without a visa. Refer to the official comprehensive eligibility list, which includes certain Caribbean and African nations, along with countries like Cyprus, Fiji, and Singapore. Travelers under the age of 16 are often exempt, but it's important to verify the specific visa requirements based on your nationality.

What is the process to apply for a tourist visa to Kenya?

Submit your tourist visa application via Kenya’s official eVisa website. Create an account with a username and password, which you’ll need to monitor your application status. Be prepared to provide your travel itinerary and upload a recent color photograph taken within the last six months.

Allow yourself sufficient time to complete the application prior to your trip, as you may need to provide accommodation details. Although the website indicates that visas are processed within 48 hours, it's advisable to build in some extra time for potential delays. After submission, some applicants might be requested to furnish additional information regarding their stay or hosts.

The visa service claims you’ll receive an email confirmation of your application or payment, but this isn’t guaranteed—don’t worry if you don’t see an email. Instead, log in with your username and password to check your visa status. You can also visit the dedicated Verify an eVisa portal.

Once your visa is approved, print several copies (including one in color) to take with you, and download the PDF to ensure you have a digital version saved on your phone.

What is the cost of a tourist visa for Kenya?

The typical visa is the single-entry visa, which costs US$51. All online payments must be made in US dollars. This visa allows entry into Kenya once for purposes such as business, tourism, medical, or other reasons. The single-entry visa remains valid for three months from the issuance date.

Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry, and you need to possess a return ticket.

Kenya offers a multiple-entry visa for US$101, ideal for those planning to visit Kenya at least twice within a year. This visa is valid for three to 12 months from the issuance date. While multiple-entry visas may require additional paperwork, many travelers opt for a single-entry visa for each visit; however, Kenya’s visa processing online is improving and becoming more efficient.

Is there a transit visa for short stays in Kenya?

If you plan to be in Kenya for less than 72 hours and wish to leave the airport, you can apply for a transit visa instead of a full visa, which costs US$21. If your flight connects directly and you stay in the airport, no visa is needed for entry into Kenya.

If you’re also traveling to Rwanda and Uganda, consider the East African Tourist Visa for US$101.

Is it possible to extend my visa for a longer stay in Kenya?

You can extend your visa for an additional 90 days by applying for the Visitor's Pass Extension through the Department of Immigration Services. Create an account, and after submitting your application, print the form, sign it, and bring it along with your passport and original visa document to the Immigration Counter at Nyayo House in Nairobi for processing.

Is there a working holiday visa available in Kenya?

Kenya does not offer a working holiday visa. Instead, you will need a work permit from the Department of Immigration Services. It is illegal for any foreigner without a valid work permit to work in Kenya, including volunteering and self-employed activities.

If you intend to volunteer or engage in an internship or other work opportunities, consult your host organization or company for guidance on the appropriate work permit.

The East African Tourist Visa is a viable option.

The East African Tourist Visa is a convenient choice if you plan to visit Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. This multiple-country tourist visa is priced at US$101 and is valid for three months from the issuance date.

You can apply for it online. Once approved, print your eVisa to present to immigration officials at your first entry point, where you will receive an East Africa visa sticker for your stay.