Can I use a tourist visa for business meetings in Kenya?

No, business activities require a specific business visa. Using a tourist visa for business purposes can result in deportation or fines.

How long is the business visa valid?

90 days from entry date with single entry only. You must exit and reapply if you need to return for additional business.

What if my application is rejected?

Common rejection reasons include incomplete documents or unclear business purpose. Reapply with corrected information - there's no waiting period, but you'll pay the fee again.

Do I need yellow fever vaccination?

Yes, if arriving from a yellow fever endemic area or transiting through one for more than 12 hours. This is separate from the visa requirement.

Can I extend my business visa while in Kenya?

Yes, apply for extension at immigration offices in Nairobi, Mombasa, or other major cities. Extension costs $20 and requires original invitation letter and business justification.

How to Get a Business Visa for Kenya

Apply for a Kenya business visa online through the eCitizen portal for $51 USD, providing your passport, business documents, and invitation letter. Processing takes 3-7 business days, and the visa is valid for 90 days with single entry.

Gather required documents. Collect your passport (valid 6+ months), passport photo, business registration certificate, letter from your employer stating purpose of visit, and invitation letter from Kenyan business partner or host organization. Have digital copies ready - PDF format under 300KB each.
Create eCitizen account. Go to ecitizen.go.ke and register for an account using your email. Verify your email address and log in to access visa services.
Start business visa application. Select 'Immigration Services' then 'Visa Application' and choose 'Business Visa (Single Entry)'. Fill out the online form with personal details, travel dates, and business purpose.
Upload documents and pay. Upload all required documents in the specified formats. Pay the $51 USD fee using credit card, debit card, or mobile money. Save your application reference number.
Track and receive approval. Check application status on eCitizen using your reference number. Approval typically comes within 3-7 business days via email. Print the approved eVisa to present at Kenyan immigration upon arrival.

Can I use a tourist visa for business meetings in Kenya?: No, business activities require a specific business visa. Using a tourist visa for business purposes can result in deportation or fines.
How long is the business visa valid?: 90 days from entry date with single entry only. You must exit and reapply if you need to return for additional business.
What if my application is rejected?: Common rejection reasons include incomplete documents or unclear business purpose. Reapply with corrected information - there's no waiting period, but you'll pay the fee again.
Do I need yellow fever vaccination?: Yes, if arriving from a yellow fever endemic area or transiting through one for more than 12 hours. This is separate from the visa requirement.
Can I extend my business visa while in Kenya?: Yes, apply for extension at immigration offices in Nairobi, Mombasa, or other major cities. Extension costs $20 and requires original invitation letter and business justification.