Kenya Visa Types, Requirements, and Application
Whether you are visiting Kenya for tourism, business, or transit, it is vital to have the correct visa to ensure a smooth entry into the country. All the necessary information to ensure a smooth application procedure for a Kenya visa is provided in this article.
Who needs a visa to enter Kenya?
Visa exemption
In order to enter Kenya, most individuals are required to obtain a visa. However, there are certain countries whose citizens are exempt from the Kenya visa requirements. These countries have established agreements with Kenya that allow their citizens to enter the country without a visa.
Citizens of the following countries are exempt from Kenya visa requirements:
E-Visa
Citizens of the remaining countries can get an e-visa by registering on www.ecitizen.go.ke, except:
Citizens of the above countries require a referred visa. The visa application is transferred to the Director of the Department of Immigration for processing and approval.
Kenya visa types
Here are the main types of visas for Kenya:
Single entry visa
This visa allows you to enter Kenya once for sightseeing, business, or medical purposes. The visa is valid for 90 days and allows a re-entry to Kenya from Tanzania and Uganda. You need to apply for this visa online through the official e-Visa website of Kenya by creating an account, filling out an application form, uploading a passport photo, and paying a fee of $95. You will receive your e-Visa within 48 hours, but you should apply at least a week before your travel date. Furthermore, you need to print out a copy of your e-Visa and present it at the immigration checkpoint upon arrival in Kenya.
Transit visa
This visa allows you to stay in Kenya for up to 72 hours for transit purposes. The visa is valid for 90 days and is a single-use visa. You need to apply for this visa online through the official e-Visa website of Kenya by following the same steps as the single entry visa, but paying a fee of $21. You need to have an onward ticket to another destination to qualify for this visa.
Courtesy visa
This visa is granted to diplomatic, official, or service passport holders who are on official duties in Kenya. The visa is free of charge and requires an official communication or note verbale from the relevant organizations. You need to apply for this visa online through the official e-Visa website by following the same steps as the single entry visa, but selecting the courtesy visa option. You need to have a valid diplomatic, official, or service passport to qualify for this visa.
Multiple entry visa
This visa allows you to enter Kenya several times within 6 months or 1 year for regular visitors, especially businesspeople. The visa requires approval from the Director of Immigration Services in Nairobi. You need to apply for this visa at the Kenyan embassy or consulate in your country by submitting a letter of invitation from your host in Kenya, a copy of your passport, a passport photo, and a fee of $101. You need to have a valid reason to visit Kenya multiple times to qualify.
East Africa tourist visa
This visa allows you to visit Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda for tourism purposes. The visa is valid for 90 days and is a multiple-entry visa. You need to apply for this visa online through the official e-Visa website of Kenya by following the same steps as the single entry visa, but selecting the East Africa tourist visa option and paying a fee of $101. You need to have a valid travel itinerary to visit the three countries to qualify for this visa.
Kenya visa requirements
Required documents for a Kenya visa application:
- Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Kenya.
- Completed visa application form: Fill out the visa application form accurately and completely.
- Passport-size photographs: Provide recent color photographs of yourself, adhering to the specified size and format.
- Travel itinerary: Submit a detailed travel itinerary outlining your intended purpose of visit, places you plan to visit, and the duration of your stay.
- Proof of accommodation: Include documents such as hotel reservations, a letter of invitation from a host in Kenya, or any other evidence of your intended accommodation.
- Financial statements: Present proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Kenya, such as bank statements or sponsorship letters.
- Return flight ticket: Show proof of your return flight ticket to your home country or onward travel.
How to apply for Kenya visa?
Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate through the Kenya visa application process:
Step#1. Determine the visa type
Before beginning the application process, you need to identify the appropriate visa type for your travel purposes. As discussed earlier, there are various visa categories such as tourist visa, business visa, and transit visa. Make sure you understand the specific requirements and restrictions of each category.
Step#2. Gather the required documents
Get every paperwork you’ll need to bolster your visa application. These typically include a valid passport, recent passport-sized photographs, a completed visa application form, travel itineraries, proof of accommodation, and financial statements. It’s important to ensure that all documents are in the required format and meet the specified criteria.
Step#3. Complete the visa application form
Make sure you accurately complete the application for a visa and include all the necessary information. Before submitting the form, make sure there are no mistakes or missing facts. Keep in mind that incomplete or incorrect forms can lead to delays or rejection of your application.
Step#4. Pay the visa fees
Pay the applicable visa fees as instructed by the Kenyan immigration authorities. The costs could change based on the kind of visa and length of stay. Ensure that you have the exact amount in the accepted currency and follow the specified payment method.
Step#5. Submit the application
Once you have completed all the necessary steps, submit your visa application and supporting documents. Depending on your country of residence, you may have the option to apply online or in person at a Kenyan embassy or consulate. Follow the instructions provided for document submission and keep a copy of all the submitted materials for reference.