What if my eVisa application is rejected?

You'll receive an email explaining the reason. Common issues are poor photo quality, missing documents, or passport validity problems. You can reapply immediately after fixing the issue - there's no waiting period, but you'll pay the fee again.

Can I extend my eVisa once I'm in Kenya?

No, the tourist eVisa cannot be extended. If you need to stay longer, you must leave Kenya and apply for a new visa. Plan your trip duration carefully before applying.

Do I need the eVisa if I'm just transiting through Nairobi airport?

If you're staying in the international transit area and continuing on the same day, no visa is needed. If you're leaving the airport or staying overnight, you need either the transit visa ($21) or tourist eVisa ($51).

What happens if I arrive without my printed eVisa?

You'll likely be denied entry. Immigration officers need to see the printed copy - phone screens aren't accepted. Always travel with physical printouts of your eVisa approval.

How to get a Kenya eVisa online

Apply for your Kenya eVisa through the official eCitizen portal at least 7 days before travel. The single-entry tourist visa costs $51, takes 2-7 days to process, and requires a passport photo, travel itinerary, and proof of accommodation.

Create an eCitizen account. Go to ecitizen.go.ke and click 'Register as Foreigner'. Fill in your personal details exactly as they appear on your passport. You'll receive a confirmation email - click the link to activate your account.
Start your visa application. Log into eCitizen and search for 'Kenya eVisa'. Select the visa type - most tourists need 'Single Entry Visa' for tourism. Click 'Apply' and fill in the application form with your passport details, travel dates, and purpose of visit.
Upload required documents. Upload a passport photo (white background, 300x300 pixels minimum), a clear scan of your passport bio page, your flight itinerary, and proof of accommodation. Files must be in JPG or PDF format, under 300KB each.
Pay the visa fee. Pay $51 USD using a credit card (Visa or Mastercard work best). The system adds a small processing fee. Save your payment confirmation - you'll need the reference number.
Wait for processing. Processing takes 2-7 business days. You'll receive email updates. Check your eCitizen account regularly - sometimes the approval comes before the email notification.
Download and print your eVisa. Once approved, log into eCitizen and download your eVisa PDF. Print two copies - keep one with your passport and pack a backup copy separately. The eVisa is valid for 90 days from issue date.

What if my eVisa application is rejected?: You'll receive an email explaining the reason. Common issues are poor photo quality, missing documents, or passport validity problems. You can reapply immediately after fixing the issue - there's no waiting period, but you'll pay the fee again.
Can I extend my eVisa once I'm in Kenya?: No, the tourist eVisa cannot be extended. If you need to stay longer, you must leave Kenya and apply for a new visa. Plan your trip duration carefully before applying.
Do I need the eVisa if I'm just transiting through Nairobi airport?: If you're staying in the international transit area and continuing on the same day, no visa is needed. If you're leaving the airport or staying overnight, you need either the transit visa ($21) or tourist eVisa ($51).
What happens if I arrive without my printed eVisa?: You'll likely be denied entry. Immigration officers need to see the printed copy - phone screens aren't accepted. Always travel with physical printouts of your eVisa approval.