Can I get a Kenya business visa on arrival?

No, you must apply online in advance. Kenya stopped issuing visas on arrival in 2024. Only eVisas are accepted now.

What if my invitation letter is from a government agency?

Government invitations need official letterhead and the inviting official's designation clearly stated. Include any reference numbers or meeting details they provide.

Can I use a business visa for conferences or trade shows?

Yes, business visas cover conferences, trade shows, business meetings, and contract negotiations. Include conference registration or trade show documentation with your application.

What happens if I overstay my Kenya business visa?

Overstaying incurs $20 USD per day in fines, possible deportation, and future visa bans. Exit before your authorized stay expires or face serious consequences.

How to Get a Kenya Business Visa

Kenya business visas cost $51 and take 2-7 business days to process online through eVisas. You'll need an invitation letter from your Kenyan business partner, proof of funds, and a return ticket. Apply at least 10 days before travel.

Check if you need a visa. Citizens of most countries need a business visa for Kenya. Check the official Kenya eVisas website - some African Union countries get free entry. If you're just transiting through Nairobi airport without leaving, you don't need a visa.
Gather required documents. You need: valid passport (6+ months remaining), passport photo, invitation letter from Kenyan company on letterhead, proof of business registration of inviting company, your employment letter or business registration, bank statements (last 3 months), return flight ticket, and yellow fever certificate if coming from endemic areas.
Get the invitation letter right. The Kenyan company must provide a letter stating: purpose of visit, duration of stay, who covers expenses, their company registration details, and contact information. This letter is crucial - applications get rejected without proper invitations.
Apply online at eVisas portal. Go to evisa.go.ke, create account, select 'Business Visa', upload documents as PDFs under 1MB each. Double-check all information matches your passport exactly. Pay $51 USD by credit card.
Wait for processing. Standard processing takes 2-7 business days. You'll get email updates. If approved, download and print the eVisa - you must show this at Nairobi airport immigration along with your passport.

Can I get a Kenya business visa on arrival?: No, you must apply online in advance. Kenya stopped issuing visas on arrival in 2024. Only eVisas are accepted now.
What if my invitation letter is from a government agency?: Government invitations need official letterhead and the inviting official's designation clearly stated. Include any reference numbers or meeting details they provide.
Can I use a business visa for conferences or trade shows?: Yes, business visas cover conferences, trade shows, business meetings, and contract negotiations. Include conference registration or trade show documentation with your application.
What happens if I overstay my Kenya business visa?: Overstaying incurs $20 USD per day in fines, possible deportation, and future visa bans. Exit before your authorized stay expires or face serious consequences.