Travelling to Kenya just got easier. Five years ago, the Kenyan Department of Immigration Services launched evisa.go.ke, giving visitors a fast, paperless way to secure entry authorization from anywhere in the world. You no longer need to visit a Kenyan embassy or wait at the border for a visa on arrival.
This guide breaks down exactly how to apply for a Kenyan e-Visa, covering requirements, costs, visa types, and step-by-step application instructions so you arrive in Kenya fully prepared and stress-free.
How to Apply for a Kenyan e-Visa and Everything You Need to Know Before You Start
The Kenyan e-Visa is an official authorization document issued in PDF format. Once approved, you print it out and present it to an immigration officer at any Kenyan port of entry. The officer then stamps your passport and grants you the right to enter the country.
Here is what you need to know about validity and stay duration:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| e-Visa validity after issue | 3 months |
| Maximum stay per entry | 90 days |
| Stay renewal | Additional 90 days at Immigration HQ |
| Total maximum stay in Kenya | 6 months |
| Processing time | 2–3 business days (Monday–Friday) |
Types of Kenyan e-Visas Available
Kenya currently offers two types of e-Visas depending on your travel purpose:
- Single Entry Visa — $51 — Issued to travellers visiting Kenya for tourism, business, or medical purposes. This visa allows one entry into the country.
- Transit Visa — $21 — Issued to travellers connecting through Kenya to another destination for a period not exceeding 72 hours. Note that passengers connecting directly through the airport without leaving the terminal do not need a transit visa.
All e-Visa applications attract a $1 USD service charge, and your card provider may add a handling fee on top of that.
Documents You Must Prepare Before Starting Your Kenyan e-Visa Application
Getting your paperwork in order before you start the online application saves you time and prevents your application from getting rejected. Here is exactly what you need:
For a Single Entry Visa:
- A valid travel document with at least six months remaining validity
- A passport with at least one blank page
- A return ticket confirming your departure from Kenya
- A travel itinerary outlining your plans in the country
- A supporting letter — either a company letter or an invitation letter for business or family visits
- Hotel bookings or details of places you plan to visit if travelling as a tourist
For a Transit Visa:
- An onward ticket proving you are connecting to another destination
Make sure every document is ready in digital format before you begin the application. Uploading clear, complete documents speeds up the vetting process and increases your chances of getting approved within the standard 2–3 business day window.
Step-by-Step Process to Complete Your Kenyan e-Visa Application Online
All Kenyan e-Visa applications go through the official eCitizen portal at www.ecitizen.go.ke. Follow these steps carefully to complete your application without errors:
- Visit www.ecitizen.go.ke and click Register
- Select Register as a Visitor to create your account
- Log in to your new account and select Department of Immigration Services
- Click Submit Application
- Select Kenyan Visa from the available options
- Choose your visa type—Single Entry or Transit—and read all instructions carefully
- Fill in the online application form with accurate personal and travel details
- Pay your visa fee using a Visa card, Mastercard, or any accepted debit card
- Wait for your approval notification via email — this takes 2–3 business days
- Download and print your e-Visa directly from your eCitizen account
- Present your printed e-Visa to the immigration officer at your Kenyan port of entry
Double-check every detail on your application form before submitting. Errors in your name, passport number, or travel dates can delay your approval or result in a rejection.
Final Word
Knowing how to apply for a Kenyan e-Visa puts you in full control of your travel plans. Start your application early, gather all required documents, and submit through the official eCitizen portal. Kenya welcomes you—make sure your visa is ready before you board your flight.
