Apply eVisa

Eligible Countries for Kenya Visa

Kenya's visa policy requires most foreign nationals to obtain a visa to enter the country. Short-term visitors can apply for a Kenya eVisa online, which replaced the visa on arrival system. 

The Kenya eVisa can be obtained by completing an online form and is received via email. Some travelers, such as those seeking work or study visas, may need to apply in person at a Kenyan embassy or consulate. Approximately 45 countries have visa-free access to Kenya, depending on the purpose and duration of their stay. 

Kenya eVisa System

The eVisa system provides a quick and easy way to gain authorization to travel to Kenya. Being able to apply for online Kenya visa means that international visitors do not need to go all the way to a diplomatic mission to deal with visa paperwork in person.

Now, you simply apply from the comfort of your own home, using a computer or device connected to the internet.

Kenya offers a convenient and efficient way to apply for a visa to visit Kenya. The online application process, quick delivery, and various permitted activities make it an ideal choice for travelers.

  • Application Process:
    • Applying online: Quick and easy process.
    • Short online form: Complete the form online.
    • Email delivery: Receive the eVisa via email.
  • Duration and Extension:
    • Stay duration: Up to 90 consecutive days.
    • Extension option: Extend for an additional 90 days.
    • Some citizens: Receive a one-month eVisa.

Note: The duration and extension of a Kenya visa depend on the country of origin, visa type, and supporting documents provided.

  • Validity and Entry:
    • Validity period: 3 months from the date of issue.
    • Single entry: Allows entry to Kenya once.
    • Multiple trips: Reapply online for each trip.
  • Application System:
    • Online system: Implemented for quicker and more efficient application process.
  • Requirements:
    • Valid passport: Minimum validity of 6 months.
      1. You have to provide the bio page & front cover page 
  • Applicant Photo: Please refrain from cropping the photo from the passport, and ensure that the photo used is no older than 6 months.

Note: The document requirements vary based on the type of visa. For detailed information, please refer to the Kenya visa document requirements page.

  • Delivery:
    • Electronic linking: eVisas electronically linked to passport.
    • Email delivery: Receive eVisa in PDF format via email.
  • Permitted Activities:
    • Transit: people/goods moving between places using transportation.
    • Holidays: Enjoy a vacation in Kenya.
    • Business: Conduct business activities.
    • Work: Work permitted activities are legally authorized tasks within the scope of one's employment.
    • Visiting friends and relatives: Connect with loved ones.
    • Medical treatment: Seek medical care.
    • Meetings / Workshop / Seminars / Training / Retreat
  • Other Purposes:
    • Contact Kenyan Embassy or Consulate: For purposes not mentioned above.

Conclusion:

By implementing the Kenya eVisa system, the country aims to enhance the visa application process, making it more convenient and accessible for eligible travelers. With its online application, quick delivery, and range of permitted activities, the Kenya eVisa is an excellent choice for those planning a visit to Kenya.

Nationals Eligible for Kenya eVisa

Nationals of around 140 countries and territories around the world are able to apply for an eVisa in order to travel to Kenya.

Streamlined Online Application: International travelers can get their online visa rapidly thanks to the streamlined and user-friendly system. They must enter the necessary details into a quick form. This includes personal, passport, and travel information.

Fast Processing: The eVisa is then delivered by email. The entire process is done within a few business days, with many visas approved within 24 hours.

Purpose of Travel

The Kenya eVisa allows eligible citizens to travel to Kenya for purposes including tourism, business and transit.

Eligible Nationalities List

Find below a full list of all the nationalities that require an eVisa to visit Kenya.

Add list here

Visa Not Required: List of Countries

Citizens of approximately 45 countries and territories do not require a visitor visa to enter Kenya for short stays. These individuals can enjoy visa-free travel privileges. Additionally, diplomatic or service passport holders from certain countries are also exempt from obtaining a visa for their visit to Kenya.

Passport Requirements

  • Valid passport from an eligible country is required for entry into Kenya.
  • Visa-exempt nationalities may have the option to use their National ID card to enter Kenya.
  • Citizens of several countries in East Africa can also enter Kenya using their National ID card.

Duration of Stay

  • Visa-exempt citizens are allowed to stay in Kenya for up to 90 days.
  • Visa regulations are subject to change periodically.
  • It is advisable to check for updates on this page before planning your trip to Kenya.

Stays Longer than 90 Days

If visa-exempt foreign citizens intend to stay in Kenya for periods exceeding 90 days, they must obtain a visa from a Kenyan embassy or consulate. This applies to individuals who fall under the visa-exempt category but wish to extend their stay beyond the allotted 90 days.

List of Visa-Exempt Countries

Below is a comprehensive list of countries whose citizens are not required to obtain a visa before traveling to Kenya:

Add list here

Please note that this list is subject to change, and it is recommended to verify the current visa requirements before planning your trip to Kenya.

Embassy Visa Requirements for Travel to Kenya

Kenya's immigration rules state that citizens of approximately 160 countries need an embassy visa to travel to Kenya, regardless of the duration and purpose of their visit.

While visa-exempt and eVisa nationalities are not required to apply for an embassy visa for stays up to 90 days, they must obtain an embassy visa for longer stays.

Procedure for Obtaining an Embassy Visa

To obtain an embassy visa for Kenya, individuals need to schedule an appointment at the nearest Kenyan government diplomatic office before their trip.

During the appointment, applicants must submit the required documents, which vary based on the type of visa needed. It is essential for the applicant's passport to remain valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival in Kenya.

Plan Ahead

As the approval process for a Kenyan embassy visa can take several weeks, it is advisable for travelers to book their appointment well in advance of their intended travel dates.

Check Your Nationality

To determine whether your nationality requires an embassy visa to travel to Kenya, refer to the following list.

Add list here


Entry Ports for Kenya with the eVisa

The eVisa, a convenient electronic visa system, allows travelers to enter Kenya through various entry points. Whether you arrive by air, sea, or land, the eVisa is accepted at the following Kenyan ports of entry:

  • Airports:
    • Eldoret International Airport
    • Garisa Airstrip
    • Jomo Kenyatta Airport
    • Kisumu Airport
    • Lamu Airport
    • Lokichogio Airport
    • Malindi Airport
    • Moi Airport
    • Wajir International Airport
    • Wilson Airport
  • Sea Ports:
    • Kilindini
    • Kisumu
    • Kuinga
    • Lamu
    • Malindi
    • Mbita Point
    • Muhuru Bay
    • Old Port
    • Shimoni
    • Vanga
  • Land Borders:
    • Busia
    • Isebania
    • Liboi
    • Loitokitok
    • Lungalunga
    • Malaba
    • Mandera
    • Moyale
    • Nadapal
    • Namanga
    • Taveta

Please note that this list is not exhaustive, and additional entry points may exist. It is always recommended to verify the latest information regarding entry requirements and ports of entry before traveling to Kenya.

Frequently Asked Questions

Citizens of approximately 45 countries and territories are exempt from obtaining a visitor visa when traveling to Kenya for short stays. The list of eligible countries includes (but is not limited to) [List of countries].

Yes, diplomatic and service passport holders from certain countries can travel to Kenya without a visa. This exemption allows them to visit the country for official purposes or diplomatic missions.

Some visa-exempt nationalities, including citizens of several countries in East Africa, have the option to enter Kenya using their National ID card instead of a passport. However, it is recommended to check the specific requirements and restrictions before traveling.

Visa-exempt citizens are permitted to stay in Kenya for a maximum period of 90 days. It is important to adhere to this duration to avoid any immigration issues.

If visa-exempt citizens intend to stay in Kenya for periods exceeding 90 days, they must obtain a visa from a Kenyan embassy or consulate before their trip.

Yes, visa requirements can change over time. It is advisable to check the latest updates on visa regulations before planning your trip to Kenya. This can be done by visiting the official sources or contacting the nearest Kenyan embassy or consulate.

Yes, Kenya offers visa-on-arrival services to citizens of many countries. However, it is important to note that the availability of visa-on-arrival and the specific requirements may change, so it's advisable to check the current visa policy of Kenya before traveling.

The duration of stay allowed on a tourist visa for Kenya varies depending on the type of visa and the nationality of the traveler. Generally, tourist visas allow stays of up to 90 days, but it's essential to verify the specific visa requirements and limitations based on your citizenship.

Yes, you can apply for a Kenya visa online through the Kenyan e-visa portal. However, not all nationalities are eligible for this service, so it is recommended to check with the Kenyan embassy or consulate in your country to confirm eligibility before applying.

It depends on your nationality. Citizens of some countries are allowed to obtain a visa at the border, while citizens of other countries are required to obtain a visa in advance. It is recommended to check with the eVisa website and confirm eligibility before traveling.