Can I get a visa on arrival instead of eVisa?

Some nationalities can get visa-on-arrival at Nairobi or Mombasa airports, but it's slower and less reliable. eVisa is strongly recommended - you skip long airport queues and avoid potential complications.

What if my eVisa application is rejected?

Common reasons include poor photo quality, insufficient bank balance proof, or missing documents. You can reapply immediately after fixing issues. If still rejected, contact Kenya's immigration directly or consider visa-on-arrival if your nationality qualifies.

How long is the Kenya visa valid?

Single entry tourist visa gives you 90 days maximum stay from entry date, but the visa itself is valid for 90 days from issue date for entry. Plan your travel within this window.

Do I need yellow fever vaccination for Kenya?

Required if you're coming from or transiting through yellow fever endemic countries. Check CDC yellow fever map. If required, get vaccination at least 10 days before travel and carry the certificate.

Can I extend my Kenya visa once there?

Tourist visas can sometimes be extended through Kenya's immigration offices in Nairobi, but it's complicated and not guaranteed. Better to apply for correct duration initially or leave and re-enter if needed.

How to Get a Visa for Kenya

Most visitors need an eVisa for Kenya, which costs $51 USD and takes 2-7 business days to process online. Apply at evisa.go.ke at least one week before travel. Some nationalities get visa-on-arrival, and a few get visa-free entry.

Check if you need a visa. Citizens of most countries need a visa for Kenya. Check the official list at evisa.go.ke. Citizens of Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, and South Sudan get visa-free entry. Some nationalities can get visa-on-arrival, but eVisa is faster and more reliable.
Choose your visa type. Single entry tourist visa ($51) covers most travelers for 90 days. Transit visa ($21) if you're stopping for under 72 hours and have onward tickets. East Africa tourist visa ($101) covers Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda for 90 days total.
Gather required documents. You need: passport valid 6+ months with 2 blank pages, recent color photo (passport style), flight itinerary, hotel booking or invitation letter, yellow fever certificate if coming from endemic areas, and bank statement showing $500+ balance.
Apply online. Go to evisa.go.ke (the only official site). Create account, fill application form, upload documents as PDFs under 300KB each. Double-check all information matches your passport exactly. Pay $51 USD by credit card.
Wait for approval. Processing takes 2-7 business days typically. You'll get email updates. Download and print your eVisa approval letter once approved. Keep digital and physical copies - you need both at immigration.
Enter Kenya. Present your passport, printed eVisa, return ticket, and proof of accommodation at immigration. Have $500 cash or equivalent available to show if asked. Immigration officer stamps your passport for actual entry.

Can I get a visa on arrival instead of eVisa?: Some nationalities can get visa-on-arrival at Nairobi or Mombasa airports, but it's slower and less reliable. eVisa is strongly recommended - you skip long airport queues and avoid potential complications.
What if my eVisa application is rejected?: Common reasons include poor photo quality, insufficient bank balance proof, or missing documents. You can reapply immediately after fixing issues. If still rejected, contact Kenya's immigration directly or consider visa-on-arrival if your nationality qualifies.
How long is the Kenya visa valid?: Single entry tourist visa gives you 90 days maximum stay from entry date, but the visa itself is valid for 90 days from issue date for entry. Plan your travel within this window.
Do I need yellow fever vaccination for Kenya?: Required if you're coming from or transiting through yellow fever endemic countries. Check CDC yellow fever map. If required, get vaccination at least 10 days before travel and carry the certificate.
Can I extend my Kenya visa once there?: Tourist visas can sometimes be extended through Kenya's immigration offices in Nairobi, but it's complicated and not guaranteed. Better to apply for correct duration initially or leave and re-enter if needed.