How to Get Visas for Couples Traveling to East Africa

Most East African countries offer single-entry visas for $50-100 per person, with the East Africa Tourist Visa covering Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda for $100 per person. Apply online 2-4 weeks before travel, and both partners need separate applications even if married. Processing takes 3-10 business days depending on the country.

  1. Choose your visa strategy. For Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda: get the East Africa Tourist Visa for $100 per person (valid 90 days, multiple entries). For Tanzania only: get an e-visa for $50. For Ethiopia: visa on arrival for $52. If visiting multiple countries outside the East Africa trio, get individual visas.
  2. Gather documents for both travelers. Each person needs: passport valid 6+ months, passport photo (recent), confirmed flight itinerary, hotel bookings or invitation letter, yellow fever certificate if coming from infected areas. Married couples still need separate applications and fees.
  3. Apply online separately. Create individual accounts on the relevant visa portal (evisaeastafrica.com for the regional visa). Fill out forms completely - relationship status doesn't affect processing. Upload all required documents as clear PDFs or JPEGs under 2MB each.
  4. Pay fees and track applications. Pay by credit card ($100 each for East Africa visa, $50 each for Tanzania). Processing times: East Africa visa 3-5 days, Tanzania 10 days, Ethiopia immediate on arrival. Check status daily through your application portal.
  5. Print and organize before departure. Print two copies of each approved visa. Keep one set with passports, one set in carry-on separately. Download visa PDFs to phones as backup. Immigration officers stamp each passport individually regardless of relationship.
Do married couples get any visa discounts in East Africa?
No. Every traveler pays individual visa fees regardless of relationship status. The East Africa Tourist Visa costs $100 per person with no couple discounts.
Can we use one application if we're married?
No. Each person needs a separate visa application, separate payment, and separate approval. Immigration treats each traveler individually.
What if our surnames are different?
Bring your marriage certificate to show the relationship if questioned. Some countries may ask about different surnames on hotel bookings or joint travel plans.
Do we need yellow fever vaccines for East Africa?
Required if arriving from yellow fever risk countries (parts of South America and sub-Saharan Africa). Recommended for most East African destinations regardless. Get vaccinated 10+ days before travel.
Can one partner apply for both visas?
No. Each person must create their own account, upload their own documents, and pay their own fees. You cannot apply on behalf of your partner.