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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.