Do I need a visa for Kenya?

Most nationalities – except 43 exempt nationalities including the Bahamas, Cyprus, South Africa, Malaysia, Singapore, Tanzania and Zimbabwe – require a visa to enter Kenya for travel, business or transit purposes. Check the official eligibility list for more information.

You must obtain a visa before you travel as visas on arrival are not available. The good news is that the process is fairly quick and easy and most nationalities can apply online.

How much is a Kenya e-visa?

Single-entry visas (business or tourism) cost around USD50.

A transit visa (valid for three days) is approximately USD20.

If you want to visit neighbouring countries and reenter Kenya, you might be better off applying for the East Africa visa which allows multiple entries into Kenya – provided you have not left East Africa – and is valid for a period of 90 days. 

Kenya e-visa requirements

Most nationalities can apply for an e-visa through the Kenyan immigration website. You'll need to submit your personal information with various documents including a scanned copy of your passport and travel itinerary.

The e-visa takes around three working days to process, but you should apply two weeks prior to travel to be on the safe side.

Printing a copy of your visa is recommended so you can show authorities when you enter Kenya. If you're travelling on an itinerary that re-enters Kenya, you must print multiple copies to present at each border crossing.

E-visa requirements vary depending on the purpose of travel but include:

  • identity document (e.g. passport) that is valid for at least six months and has at least two blank pages 
  • travel itinerary 
  • confirmation of your return ticket 
  • confirmation of an accommodation reservation for at least one night after your arrival date
  • passport-sized photograph 
  • active email address

This page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 18 March 2024

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