Can I still get a visa on arrival at the airport?

Kenya is phasing out visa-on-arrival by January 2024. Some nationalities can still get airport visas, but online application is strongly recommended to avoid long queues and potential rejection.

What if my eVisa application is rejected?

Check the rejection reason in your eCitizen account. Common issues include blurry documents, mismatched names, or incomplete information. You can reapply immediately after fixing the problems. The fee is non-refundable.

How long is the Kenya eVisa valid?

Single-entry tourist visas are valid for 90 days from the issue date, allowing stays up to 30 days. You must enter Kenya within those 90 days, then your 30-day stay begins on arrival.

Can I extend my Kenya visa once I'm there?

Yes, you can extend tourist visas at immigration offices in Nairobi or other major cities. Extensions cost around $50 and allow additional 30-60 days, depending on circumstances.

How to Get a Kenya Visa Online

Apply for a Kenya eVisa through the official eCitizen portal at least 7 days before travel. Most tourists need a single-entry visa costing $51 USD, processed within 2-7 business days. Upload passport copy, photo, and travel documents during the online application.

Check if you need a visa. Citizens of most countries need a visa for Kenya. Check the official list on the eCitizen website. US, UK, EU, Canadian, Australian, and most other passport holders require a visa. Only a few African countries have visa exemptions.
Gather required documents. You need: passport valid for 6+ months with 2 blank pages, passport-style photo (JPEG under 300KB), return flight ticket or itinerary, hotel booking or invitation letter, and yellow fever certificate if traveling from endemic areas.
Create eCitizen account. Go to ecitizen.go.ke and create an account using your email. Verify your email address through the confirmation link sent to your inbox.
Start visa application. Log in and select 'Immigration Services' then 'Kenya eVisa'. Choose single-entry tourist visa ($51) for most visitors. Transit visa ($21) is only for airport layovers under 72 hours.
Fill application form. Complete all sections accurately: personal details, passport information, travel dates, accommodation details, and emergency contacts. Double-check spelling matches your passport exactly.
Upload documents. Upload passport bio page (clear scan/photo), recent passport photo (white background), flight booking, and accommodation proof. Files must be JPEG or PDF under 300KB each.
Pay visa fee. Pay $51 USD using credit card (Visa/Mastercard) or bank transfer. The system accepts international cards. Save your payment reference number.
Track application. Check application status in your eCitizen dashboard. Most applications are approved within 2-7 business days. You'll receive an email notification when processed.
Download and print visa. Once approved, download the eVisa PDF from your dashboard. Print 2 copies - keep one with your passport and one in carry-on luggage.

Can I still get a visa on arrival at the airport?: Kenya is phasing out visa-on-arrival by January 2024. Some nationalities can still get airport visas, but online application is strongly recommended to avoid long queues and potential rejection.
What if my eVisa application is rejected?: Check the rejection reason in your eCitizen account. Common issues include blurry documents, mismatched names, or incomplete information. You can reapply immediately after fixing the problems. The fee is non-refundable.
How long is the Kenya eVisa valid?: Single-entry tourist visas are valid for 90 days from the issue date, allowing stays up to 30 days. You must enter Kenya within those 90 days, then your 30-day stay begins on arrival.
Can I extend my Kenya visa once I'm there?: Yes, you can extend tourist visas at immigration offices in Nairobi or other major cities. Extensions cost around $50 and allow additional 30-60 days, depending on circumstances.