Kenya e-Visa Application Process Entry Requirements and More

8 min readAug 2, 2024

Are you planning a trip to the beautiful country of Kenya? Well, buckle up, because we’re about to embark on a thrilling journey through the Kenya e-Visa application process! Don’t worry, it’s not as daunting as it sounds. In fact, with our expert guidance, you’ll be sipping Kenyan coffee and spotting elephants in no time!

What is an e-visa?

Let’s start with the basics, shall we? A Kenyan e-visa is your golden ticket to adventure! It’s an electronic document that grants you entry into Kenya, and the best part? You can apply for it from the comfort of your couch. No more standing in long queues at the airport unless that’s your idea of fun, of course! The Kenya e-Visa application process is straightforward:

Create an e-citizen account (don’t worry, it’s easier than setting up your smart TV)
Select e-visa application (it’s like choosing your favorite ice cream flavor)
Fill in the application form (pro tip: have your passport handy)
Make payment (your credit card’s moment to shine)
Wait for approval (perfect time to start planning your safari outfits)
Download and print your e-visa (frame it if you want, we won’t judge)

Remember, the Kenya e-Visa application process takes about 2–3 business days. So, if you’re the type who packs the night before a trip, you might want to reconsider your life choices for this one!

Are you Eligible for an E-visa?

Now, here’s where things get a bit tricky. Not everyone needs a Kenya e-visa. Some lucky ducks are exempt, while others need to jump through a few more hoops. It’s like a game of visa roulette! There are three categories:

The VIPs: Exempt from needing a visa (lucky you!)
The Regular Joes: Can get a visa on application (that’s most of us)
The Special Cases: Need a referred visa (don’t worry, you’re still special)

To find out which category you fall into, check the official Kenya e-visa website. It’s like a treasure hunt, but instead of gold, you find out if you need a visa!

E-visa Validity

So, you’ve successfully navigated the Kenya e-Visa application process. Congratulations! But how long is this golden ticket valid for? Well, it depends on what type of visa you’ve got:

Single-entry visa: Valid for 3 months (perfect for a quick safari adventure)
Multiple-entry visa: Valid for 3 to 12 months (for those who just can’t get enough of Kenya)
East Africa tourist visa: Valid for 3 months (ideal for the overachievers who want to explore multiple countries)

Remember, these visas are like Cinderella’s shoes they turn into pumpkins after their validity period. So make sure you use them before they expire!

Kenya Visa Application Process: How to apply for an e-visa online

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of the Kenya e-Visa application process. It’s as easy as making a cup of tea Kenyan tea, of course!

Create an e-citizen account (it’s like joining an exclusive online club)
Select e-visa application (your ticket to adventure awaits!)
Fill in the application form (time to dust off those form-filling skills)
Make payment (your wallet might groan, but your heart will thank you)
Wait for approval (patience is a virtue, especially in visa applications)
Download and print your e-visa (treat it like the precious document it is)

Remember, the Kenya e-Visa application process is like cooking a good meal — it takes time, but the result is worth it. It usually takes about 2–3 business days to process your visa. So, if you’re planning to leave tomorrow… well, we hope you’re a good swimmer!

How Much Does a Kenya E-visa Cost

Now, let’s talk money. The Kenya e-Visa application process isn’t free, but hey, can you really put a price on adventure? Here’s a breakdown of the costs:

Single entry visa: £41.15 (cheaper than a fancy dinner, and much more exciting)
Transit visa: £16.94 (for those just passing through, like a visa pit stop)
Multiple-entry visa: £81.49 (for the frequent Kenya visitors)
East Africa tourist visa: £81.49 (for the overachievers who want to explore multiple countries)

Remember, all online applications come with a small service charge and card handling fee. It’s like a tip for the internet gods who make this all possible!

Kenya e-visa Requirements

Now, what do you need for the Kenya e-Visa application process? Don’t worry, you won’t need to sacrifice your firstborn or solve a Rubik’s cube. Here’s what you’ll need:

A valid passport (with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages)
A recent passport-sized photo (smile, you’re going to Kenya!)
An onward/return ticket (unless you’re planning to stay forever, which we wouldn’t blame you for)
Proof of accommodation (where you’ll rest your head after a day of adventures)
Sufficient funds (because, unfortunately, money doesn’t grow on Kenyan trees)

Some nationalities might also need a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate. It’s like a backstage pass for your immune system!

Kenya Transit Visa

If you’re just passing through Kenya (though we can’t imagine why you’d want to leave so soon), you might need a transit visa. It’s like a quick “hello” to Kenya before you jet off elsewhere. The transit visa is valid for up to 72 hours. That’s enough time to grab a quick safari, right? Just kidding, please don’t try that. Requirements for a transit visa include:

A valid passport
An onward ticket (proof that you’re not planning to overstay your welcome)
The intention to stay for no more than 72 hours (we know it’s hard to leave, but rules are rules)

Kenya Single Entry Visa

The single entry visa is the most common type for tourists. It’s like a one-time pass to the greatest show on Earth Kenya! This visa allows you to stay in Kenya for up to 90 days. That’s plenty of time to see the Big Five, climb Mount Kenya, and perfect your Swahili accent. Requirements vary depending on your purpose of visit: For tourists:

Hotel bookings (your home away from home)
An itinerary (your adventure roadmap)

For business visits:

An invitation letter from a Kenyan company (your business BFF)
Company registration documents (to prove you’re not just there for the wildlife)

For family visits:

An invitation letter from your Kenyan family (aww, how sweet)
ID of your host (to prove they’re not imaginary)

Remember, the Kenya e-Visa application process is your ticket to an unforgettable adventure. So take a deep breath, gather your documents, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!

Kenya Courtesy Visa

Ever dreamed of being treated like royalty? Well, the Kenya Courtesy Visa is as close as you’ll get (unless you’re actually royalty, in which case, your highness, we’re honored you’re reading this)!This visa is reserved for:

Dignitaries (fancy title alert!)
Highly respected members of society (time to polish that Nobel Prize)

The Kenya e-Visa application process for a courtesy visa is a bit different:

Have an official travel document (valid for at least six months)
Possess a diplomatic passport (your ticket to the VIP lounge)
Provide an official letter from your country of origin or foreign affairs (no, a note from your mom doesn’t count)
Submit a colored passport-sized photograph (smile, you’re important!)

This visa can last from 15 days to 6 months. That’s plenty of time to solve world hunger or negotiate world peace, right?

Kenya East African Tourist Visa

For the overachievers who want to conquer not just Kenya, but Rwanda and Uganda too, the East African Tourist Visa is your golden ticket! It’s like a three-for-one deal, but for countries!To apply for this visa, you’ll need:

A passport-sized photograph (no duck faces, please)
An application form (your chance to show off your handwriting)
A letter of visa application (time to dust off those persuasive writing skills)

Remember, this visa is for tourism only. So if you’re planning to start an international business empire, you might need to rethink your strategy!

How to Verify Your e-Visa

So, you’ve completed the Kenya e-Visa application process. But how do you know it’s legit? Here’s how to verify your e-visa:

Log into your ecitizen account (remember that password you set?)
Select eVisa application service (it’s like choosing your character in a video game)
Enter your application number (the moment of truth!)
Click on search (and cross your fingers)

If all goes well, you’ll see your visa details. If not… well, let’s hope it doesn’t come to that!

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve covered a lot, but we know you might still have questions. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!How long does a Kenya eVisa take?
Usually 2–3 business days. But remember, patience is a virtue (and also a necessity in visa applications).When should I apply for my visa for Kenya online?
3–5 days before your flight. But if you’re a chronic procrastinator, maybe start a bit earlier!How long is a Kenya E-visa good for?
Up to 90 days. That’s about 2,160 hours of potential adventure!Do I need a visa to visit Kenya?
Unless you’re from one of the exempt countries, yes. But think of it as your golden ticket to an amazing adventure!Can I get a Kenya visa on arrival?
Nope, sorry! The Kenya e-Visa application process must be completed before arrival. No last-minute surprises here!Are there COVID-19-related Entry Requirements?
Yes, including a negative PCR test taken within 96 hours before travel. Remember, safety first!Does e-visa get rejected?
It can, but don’t panic! Just make sure you provide accurate information and follow the instructions carefully.Can I get a refund if my e-visa is rejected?
Unfortunately, no. But look on the bright side you can always reapply!Do I need a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate?
If you’re coming from a country at risk of yellow fever transmission, yes. Think of it as your body’s passport!

Conclusion

And there you have it, folks! The complete guide to the Kenya e-Visa application process. We’ve laughed, we’ve learned, and hopefully, we’ve demystified the whole process for you. Remember, applying for a Kenya e-visa is not just a bureaucratic process it’s the first step in your grand Kenyan adventure! From the stunning savannas of the Masai Mara to the pristine beaches of Mombasa, Kenya is waiting to welcome you with open arms (and stamped visas).So what are you waiting for? Start your Kenya e-Visa application process today, and before you know it, you’ll be sipping Kenyan coffee, watching elephants roam, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.Karibu Kenya! (That’s Swahili for “Welcome to Kenya!” consider it your first language lesson)