Your Gateway to the Wonders of East Africa Starts Here!
Planning an unforgettable safari? Eager to explore the Great Rift Valley, vibrant Nairobi, or the sun-kissed beaches of Mombasa? Then Kenya is calling! But before you set off on your African adventure, you need to secure your Kenya visa. As an expert in visa guidance, I’m thrilled to walk you through this complete and enthusiastic guide that covers how to get a Kenya visa, apply online, eligibility, visa types, fees, requirements, duration, and the full application procedure—everything you need to know!
🌍 Why Visit Kenya?
Kenya is Africa in a nutshell—home to the “Big Five,” iconic safaris in the Maasai Mara, towering Mount Kenya, vibrant cultures, and some of the most breathtaking landscapes on earth. Whether you're traveling for tourism, business, or transit, Kenya offers a one-of-a-kind experience for every kind of explorer.
📌 How to Get a Kenya Visa
The Kenyan government has made the visa process incredibly easy, efficient, and fully online. As of January 2021, Kenya replaced all physical and visa-on-arrival systems with an e-Visa platform—a big win for travelers worldwide!
There is now only one way to obtain your visa:
✅ Online via the official Kenya e-Visa system
💻 How to Apply for a Kenya Visa Online (e-Visa)
Applying for a Kenya e-Visa is fast, user-friendly, and completely digital.
✅ Step-by-Step Application Procedure:
-
Visit the official portal: https://www.evisa.go.ke
-
Create an account with your email address.
-
Choose your visa type (Tourist, Business, Transit, etc.)
-
Fill in the application form with personal, passport, and travel details.
-
Upload the required documents (see list below).
-
Pay the visa fee securely online using a credit or debit card.
-
Wait for approval—typically within 2 to 3 business days.
-
Once approved, download and print your e-Visa to carry with you when traveling.
🧾 Kenya Visa Requirements
Before apply, make sure you have the following documents ready:
-
A valid passport (minimum 6 months validity from the date of arrival)
-
Passport-sized photo
-
Flight itinerary (return or onward ticket)
-
Hotel booking or accommodation details
-
Proof of sufficient funds
-
Travel itinerary or purpose of visit
-
Email address for receiving notifications and visa approval
For business visas, you may also need:
-
An invitation letter from a Kenyan company
-
A copy of the company’s registration certificate
👥 Kenya Visa Eligibility
Citizens of most countries worldwide are eligible to apply for a Kenya e-Visa. However, a few African and Caribbean nations enjoy visa-free entry for up to 90 days.
You can check your country’s eligibility directly on the Kenya eVisa portal.
💡 Pro tip: Even if you're transiting through Kenya for more than 12 hours, you may need a transit visa—so plan accordingly!
💼 Types of Kenya Visas
Kenya offers several visa types tailored to different travel needs:
1. Tourist Visa
-
For leisure travel, sightseeing, and visiting friends and family.
-
Valid for 90 days (single entry).
2. Business Visa
-
For attending conferences, business meetings, or trade events.
-
Also valid for 90 days, with business documentation required.
3. Transit Visa
-
For travelers passing through Kenya in route to another destination.
-
Valid for up to 72 hours.
-
Ideal for long layovers or short stays.
4. East Africa Tourist Visa (optional add-on!)
-
A special visa that lets you visit Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda on a single visa.
-
Valid for 90 days, multiple entry within these three countries.
💰 Kenya Visa Fees
Kenya's e-Visa fees are affordable and straightforward:
-
Tourist Visa (Single Entry): $51 USD
-
Business Visa: $101 USD
-
Transit Visa: $21 USD
-
East Africa Tourist Visa: $101 USD
🧾 Payment is made online, and there may be a small service or processing fee added depending on your payment method.
🕒 Kenya Visa Duration and Validity
-
Tourist and Business Visas: Valid for 90 days from date of issue. You can request an extension (up to 90 more days) from the Kenyan Immigration Office in Nairobi.
-
Transit Visas: Valid for 72 hours only.
-
East Africa Tourist Visa: Valid for 90 days, with multiple entries among Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda—but must start in Kenya.
⏰ Don’t forget—your stay period starts on the day you enter Kenya, not when your visa is issued.
📝 Final Tips for a Smooth Application
-
Apply at least 7 days before travel, especially during peak seasons.
-
Double-check that your passport won't expire within 6 months.
-
Always print a hard copy of your e-Visa to present at immigration.
-
Carry a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate, especially if traveling from an at-risk country.
🎉 Conclusion: Explore Kenya With Confidence!
From the majestic wildlife in Amboseli to the white-sand beaches of Diani, Kenya offers adventure, beauty, and culture like no other. The best part? The Kenya e-Visa system makes it incredibly easy to begin your journey. Whether you’re planning a vacation, a work trip, or a quick layover, this guide ensures you’re fully prepared to apply for your Kenya visa online—quickly, securely, and stress-free.
So what are you waiting for? Get your Kenya visa today and take the first step toward an East African adventure you’ll never forget!
Would you like a printable checklist or infographic version of this guide for your travel blog or website? I can create that too—just say the word!