Kenya Tourist Visa Requirements: Documents and Application Steps
Updated for 2026.
Planning a safari adventure or beach vacation in Kenya? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining a Kenya tourist visa for your leisure travel, from requirements and documents to the application process and travel tips.
For full eligibility and requirement updates, see our Kenya eVisa requirements page.
What is a Kenya Tourist Visa?
The Kenya tourist visa (eVisa) is specifically designed for travelers visiting Kenya for tourism, leisure, and recreational activities. This visa allows you to explore Kenya's world-famous national parks, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage.
Key Benefits
- 100% Online Application: Apply from anywhere in the world
- Typical processing estimate: Typically processed within 3 working days
- Current ETA Listing: Single entry tourist ETA with up to 90 days stay
- Payment handling: Card details are entered through Stripe’s hosted payment form
- Digital Delivery: Receive your visa via email
Kenya Tourist Visa Requirements
Essential Documents
1. Valid Passport
- Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay
- Must have at least one blank page for entry stamp
- Clear scan of the bio-data page required
2. Passport-Size Photograph
- Recent photo taken within the last 6 months
- White or light-colored background
- Clear facial features
- JPEG format, minimum 600x600 pixels
3. Travel Documentation
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation)
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Travel itinerary
4. Financial Proof
- Bank statements showing sufficient funds
- Credit card statements
- Proof of employment or financial support
5. Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate
- Mandatory for entry into Kenya
- Must be obtained at least 10 days before travel
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Choose Your Destination
- Select the Kenya visa type that matches your travel purpose
- Confirm your nationality is eligible for the online application
- Double-check your travel dates and intended entry type
Step 2: Complete the Online Application Form
- Fill in your personal and passport information accurately
- Add travel details (arrival/departure dates and purpose of visit)
- Review every field carefully before submitting
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
- Upload a clear passport-size photograph and passport bio-data page
- Provide supporting documents such as accommodation and travel itinerary
- Ensure file formats/sizes meet the portal requirements
Step 4: Receive Your eVisa
- After approval, you will receive your eVisa via email
- Download the PDF and keep digital copies for travel
- Print your approval if you prefer a physical backup
- Verify all details are correct before you depart
Kenya Tourist Visa Fees and Processing Times
| Visa Type | Government Fee | Processing Time (Normal) | Processing Time (Urgent) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist ETA (Single Entry) | $95 USD | 3 working days | 1 working day |
Important Notes:
- Processing times are estimates and may vary
- United Evisa charges a fixed service fee of $59.99 per applicant in addition to the applicable government fee
- Current tourist ETA listings show 1 working day urgent handling
- Apply at least 1 week before your travel date
Entry Points and Travel
Kenya tourist visa holders can enter through:
- Nairobi (NBO): Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
- Mombasa (MBA): Moi International Airport
- Designated land borders
Always carry your printed visa, valid passport, and yellow fever vaccination certificate.
Travel Tips for Kenya
Best Time to Visit
June to October and December to March (Dry Seasons)
- Pleasant weather with minimal rainfall
- Ideal for safari activities
- Best wildlife viewing conditions
- Peak tourist season
April to May and November (Wet Seasons)
- Heavy rains
- Lush green landscapes
- Lower prices and fewer tourists
Popular Tourist Destinations
- Maasai Mara: Premier wildlife destination with Great Migration
- Nairobi: Capital city with museums and attractions
- Mombasa: Beautiful coastal city with beaches
- Amboseli: Stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro
- Samburu: Unique wildlife viewing
- Lake Nakuru: Flamingo viewing
- Tsavo: Large national parks
Health Requirements
- Yellow Fever: Mandatory vaccination certificate required
- Routine vaccinations recommended
- Hepatitis A and B vaccinations recommended
- Tetanus and typhoid vaccinations recommended
- Malaria precautions essential
- Comprehensive travel insurance highly recommended
Currency and Money
- Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KES)
- Credit cards widely accepted in major cities
- Cash preferred in rural areas
- ATMs available in cities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it take to process a Kenya tourist visa? A: Normal processing takes 2-3 working days. An urgent option may be listed, but availability and completion time are not guaranteed.
Q: Do I need a yellow fever vaccination for Kenya? A: Yes, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry into Kenya. It must be obtained at least 10 days before travel.
Q: Can I extend my Kenya tourist visa? A: Yes, extensions are possible for valid reasons. Visit the Immigration Department in Nairobi for details.
Q: How long can I stay in Kenya with a tourist visa? A: You can stay up to 90 days with a tourist visa. The immigration officer at the border will determine the exact length of stay.
Why Choose United eVisa Services?
United eVisa Services is an independent private application-support service, not a government agency.
- Government and service fees are shown separately before payment.
- Visa approval and entry decisions remain with the destination immigration authority.
- Processing times vary by destination, visa type, and application.
- You may apply directly through the relevant official government portal.
Conclusion
Obtaining your Kenya tourist visa is simple and straightforward with our platform. Whether you're planning a safari adventure, beach holiday, or cultural exploration, we ensure your visa application is handled professionally.
Ready to apply for your Kenya tourist visa?
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