Can I get a Kenyan visa on arrival?

Yes, but it's not recommended. Visa on arrival costs the same $51 but involves long queues and potential complications if you don't have all documents. The eVisa is much more reliable.

How long is a Kenyan tourist visa valid?

Single-entry tourist visas are valid for 90 days from the date of entry. You must enter Kenya within 3 months of visa approval.

Do I need yellow fever vaccination for Kenya?

Only if you're traveling from or through a yellow fever endemic country. Direct flights from the US don't require it, but if you connect through countries like Ethiopia or South Africa, you'll need proof of vaccination.

What if my eVisa application is rejected?

You can reapply with corrected information or try visa on arrival, though this is riskier. Common rejection reasons include poor photo quality, incomplete forms, or insufficient passport validity.

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

Yes, you can extend a tourist visa for up to 6 months total at immigration offices in Nairobi or Mombasa. Extensions cost around $50 and require proof of funds and accommodation.

How to Get a Visa for Kenya as a US Citizen

US citizens need a visa to enter Kenya. Apply online through the official eVisa system at evisa.go.ke for $51 USD, which takes 2-7 business days to process. You can also get a visa on arrival at the airport for the same price, but online is faster and more reliable.

Choose your visa type. Most US tourists need a single-entry visa valid for 90 days. Select 'Tourist Visa' on the application. If visiting multiple East African countries, consider the East Africa Tourist Visa for $101 which covers Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.
Gather required documents. You need a passport valid for at least 6 months from entry date, a recent passport photo (digital file), proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter), return flight ticket, and a yellow fever vaccination certificate if coming from a yellow fever endemic country.
Apply online at evisa.go.ke. Create an account on the official government portal. Fill out the application form completely - any errors will delay processing. Upload your documents as clear, color scans. The passport photo must meet specific requirements: recent, white background, no glasses.
Pay the visa fee. Pay $51 USD using a credit or debit card. The system accepts Visa and Mastercard. Keep your payment confirmation - you'll need the reference number to track your application.
Wait for approval. Processing takes 2-7 business days. You'll receive email updates on your application status. Check your spam folder. Once approved, download and print your eVisa approval letter.
Present documents at arrival. Print your eVisa approval letter and carry it with your passport. Present both to immigration at Nairobi, Mombasa, or other entry points. The officer will stamp your passport with the actual visa.

Can I get a Kenyan visa on arrival?: Yes, but it's not recommended. Visa on arrival costs the same $51 but involves long queues and potential complications if you don't have all documents. The eVisa is much more reliable.
How long is a Kenyan tourist visa valid?: Single-entry tourist visas are valid for 90 days from the date of entry. You must enter Kenya within 3 months of visa approval.
Do I need yellow fever vaccination for Kenya?: Only if you're traveling from or through a yellow fever endemic country. Direct flights from the US don't require it, but if you connect through countries like Ethiopia or South Africa, you'll need proof of vaccination.
What if my eVisa application is rejected?: You can reapply with corrected information or try visa on arrival, though this is riskier. Common rejection reasons include poor photo quality, incomplete forms, or insufficient passport validity.
Can I extend my Kenyan visa once I'm there?: Yes, you can extend a tourist visa for up to 6 months total at immigration offices in Nairobi or Mombasa. Extensions cost around $50 and require proof of funds and accommodation.