Kenya eVisa FAQ

Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you from applying for a Kenya travel authorization, but it is something to take seriously and never hide. Immigration decisions weigh the nature, severity, and recency of an offense far more than the simple fact that a record exists. The safest approach is to answer every question truthfully and be ready to explain your situation if asked.

Yes, an invitation letter can support a Kenya eVisa application when your trip includes a host, a sponsor, a business contact, or private accommodation. It does not replace the rest of the application, but it can strengthen the file when the trip is not based on a simple hotel-only itinerary.

It depends entirely on whether the file has reached the Kenya authority yet.

It depends on whether your new dates still fall inside the validity window you were already granted — not on how far the trip has moved.

Sometimes, but you should not count on editing a Kenya eVisa (eTA) freely once it has been submitted. The realistic mindset is: the more the error touches your identity or passport, the more likely you will need a fresh application rather than a quiet in-place edit. Act quickly, describe the exact field that is wrong, and do not treat the original submission as usable until you have confirmation.

Risky, and usually not worth attempting. A damaged passport can fail twice — once when Kenya assesses the application, and again at the border where an officer sees the document in person.

Usually not required — but print it anyway. The cost is one sheet of paper and it removes an entire category of problem.

A Kenya eVisa is an electronic travel authorization that allows eligible foreign nationals to enter Kenya for tourism, business, or transit purposes. The eVisa system enables travelers to apply online without visiting an embassy or consulate, making travel to Kenya more convenient and accessible.

The Kenya eVisa is linked to your passport and must be printed and presented upon arrival at Kenyan entry points. It's valid for single entry and allows stays of up to 90 days depending on the visa type.

Most foreign nationals require a Kenya eVisa to enter Kenya. This includes citizens from:

• North America: United States, Canada, Mexico
• Europe: All EU countries, United Kingdom, Norway, Switzerland
• Asia-Pacific: Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, China, India
• Middle East: UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and most Middle Eastern countries
• Africa: Most African countries (except East African Community members)
• South America: Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, and most South American countries

Visa-Exempt Nationalities:

• Citizens of East African Community (EAC) countries: Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan
• Some diplomatic passport holders may have special arrangements

Important: Always verify your specific nationality's requirements using our eligibility checker before applying.

Kenya eVisas have different validity periods depending on the visa type:

• Tourist ETA: Current listing shows 60 days visa validity with up to 90 days stay, single entry
• Business ETA: Current listing shows 60 days visa validity with up to 90 days stay, single entry
• Transit ETA: Current listing shows 60 days visa validity with up to 72 hours stay, single entry

The eVisa must be used within its validity period. Once you enter Kenya, the immigration officer will determine the exact length of stay (up to the maximum allowed by your visa type).

Kenya offers three main eVisa types:

1. Tourist ETA (Single Entry)

• Purpose: Tourism, safaris, beach holidays, cultural exploration
• Visa validity in our current system: 60 days
• Stay duration: up to 90 days
• Government Fee: $95 USD
• Processing Time (estimated): 3 working days (normal), 1 working day (urgent)

2. Business ETA (Single Entry)

• Purpose: Business meetings, conferences, trade exhibitions
• Visa validity in our current system: 60 days
• Stay duration: up to 90 days
• Government Fee: $95 USD
• Processing Time (estimated): 3 working days (normal), 1 working day (urgent)

3. Transit ETA (Single Entry)

• Purpose: Airport transit, short layovers
• Visa validity in our current system: 60 days
• Stay duration: up to 72 hours
• Government Fee: $65 USD
• Processing Time (estimated): 1 working day

Applying for a Kenya eVisa is straightforward with our platform:

Step 1: Open the online application and select Kenya eVisa Step 2: Complete the online application form with accurate information Step 3: Upload all required documents (passport, photo, accommodation proof, etc.) Step 4: Review your application carefully Step 5: Pay the government fee and service charge securely online Step 6: Track your application status through our customer portal Step 7: Receive your approved eVisa via email as a PDF document

Before submission, compare the entered passport details and required documents with the application checklist.

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

2. Passport-Size Photograph

   • Recent photo (within last 6 months)
   • White or light-colored background
   • Clear facial features, no glasses or head coverings
   • JPEG format, minimum 600x600 pixels

3. Travel Documentation

   • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
   • Return or onward flight ticket
   • Travel itinerary (recommended)

4. Financial Proof

   • Bank statements showing sufficient funds
   • Credit card statements or traveler's checks
   • 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

Additional Documents for Business Travelers:

• Business invitation letter from Kenyan company
• Company registration documents
• Letter from employer stating purpose of visit

Kenya eVisa processing times vary:

• Normal Processing: 3 working days for tourist and business ETA; 1 working day for transit ETA
• Urgent Processing: 1 working day for tourist and business ETA in our current system

Processing times are estimates and may vary based on:

• Application volume
• Document quality and completeness
• Security checks required
• Peak travel seasons

Checking the entered details before submission can prevent avoidable corrections.

Kenya tourist and business ETA listings currently show 1 working day urgent handling. Transit ETA is already listed at 1 working day. Expedited handling may help when you have:

• Last-minute travel plans
• Emergency travel situations
• Time-sensitive business trips
• Unexpected travel opportunities

Contact our support team to request urgent processing for your application.

If you notice an error before payment and submission, you can go back and correct it. However, once payment is made and the application is submitted, corrections become more difficult.

If you discover an error after submission:

• Contact our support team immediately
• Depending on the processing stage, we may be able to request corrections
• Some errors may require a new application

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Incorrect passport information
• Wrong travel dates
• Mismatched personal details
• Poor quality document uploads

Check the entered details before submission to reduce avoidable corrections.

Kenya eVisa fees vary by visa type:

• Tourist ETA: $95 USD (government fee)
• Business ETA: $95 USD (government fee)
• Transit ETA: $65 USD (government fee)

Additional Costs:

• Fixed service fee of $59.99 per applicant
• Any optional expedited handling shown at checkout

All fees are clearly displayed before you submit your application.

Card payments are entered through Stripe’s hosted form:

• Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express)
• Debit cards with international usage
• Bank transfers
• Other accepted payment methods

All payments are processed through secure, encrypted channels to protect your financial information.

Government fees are generally non-refundable if an application is denied. However, our service includes:

• Expert document review to minimize rejection risk
• Pre-submission verification
• Resubmission assistance if needed
• Service support and issue resolution under our refund policy

Our application completeness focus demonstrates our commitment to helping clients submit strong, complete applications.

Kenya eVisa holders can enter through:

• Nairobi (NBO): Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
• Mombasa (MBA): Moi International Airport
• Other designated international airports
• Designated land border crossings

Always carry your printed eVisa approval letter and valid passport when traveling.

Yes, visa extensions are possible for valid reasons. To extend your Kenya visa:

• Visit the Immigration Department in Nairobi
• Provide valid reasons for extension
• Submit required documentation
• Pay extension fees

Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration authorities and require valid justification.

Current Kenya eVisas are single-entry only. If you plan to leave Kenya and return, you'll need to apply for a new eVisa before your return trip.

Planning multiple visits?

• Apply for a new eVisa before each entry
• Allow sufficient processing time between trips
• Consider our urgent processing for last-minute returns

Upon arrival in Kenya with your eVisa:

1. Present your printed eVisa approval letter
2. Show your valid passport (must match eVisa details)
3. Present your yellow fever vaccination certificate
4. Answer immigration officer's questions if asked
5. Receive entry stamp in your passport

The immigration officer will determine the exact length of stay (up to 90 days for tourist/business visas).

Yes, each traveler regardless of age needs their own Kenya eVisa. This includes:

• Infants and children
• Minors traveling with parents
• Family members traveling together

Additional requirements for minors:

• Parental consent documentation may be required
• Birth certificates for verification
• Accompanying adult information

Having a criminal record doesn't automatically disqualify you from obtaining a Kenya eVisa. However:

• You must declare any criminal history honestly in your application
• Each case is assessed individually by Kenyan immigration authorities
• Serious offenses may affect eligibility
• Our team can provide guidance on specific circumstances

Important: Always be honest in your application. Providing false information can result in permanent visa bans.

Your passport must meet these requirements:

• Validity: At least 6 months remaining beyond your intended stay
• Blank Pages: At least one blank page for entry stamp
• Condition: Not damaged, torn, or defaced
• Bio-data Page: Clear and readable for scanning

If your passport doesn't meet these requirements, renew it before applying for your Kenya eVisa.

Yes, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry into Kenya. Requirements:

• Must be obtained at least 10 days before travel
• Certificate must be valid and properly issued
• Required even if you're only transiting through Kenya
• Some countries may have exemptions (check current requirements)

Important: Without a valid yellow fever certificate, you may be denied entry to Kenya, even with an approved eVisa.

You can track your application status through:

1. Our Customer Portal: Use your application reference number
2. Email Updates: Automatic notifications at each stage
3. Customer Support: Contact our support team

Application Status Stages:

• Application received
• Under review
• Document verification
• Approval notification
• eVisa delivery

If your Kenya eVisa is denied:

1. You'll receive notification with the reason for denial
2. Our team will help you understand the issues
3. We can assist with addressing the problems
4. You may reapply after resolving the issues

Common reasons for denial:

• Incomplete or incorrect information
• Poor quality documents
• Insufficient financial proof
• Security concerns
• Missing required documents

Use the application checklist to catch missing or inconsistent details before submission.

Once payment is made and the application is submitted, cancellation may not be possible. However:

• Contact our support team immediately if you need to cancel
• Government fees are generally non-refundable
• Service fees may be refundable depending on processing stage
• We can assist with rescheduling travel dates if needed

Dry Seasons (Peak Travel):

• January to March: Pleasant weather, ideal for safaris
• July to October: Best wildlife viewing, Great Migration season

Wet Seasons:

• April to May: Long rains, fewer tourists, lower prices
• November: Short rains, still good for travel

Considerations:

• Peak season: Higher prices, more crowds, better wildlife viewing
• Low season: Lower prices, fewer tourists, lush landscapes

Wildlife and Safari:

• Maasai Mara National Reserve (Great Migration)
• Amboseli National Park (Mount Kilimanjaro views)
• Tsavo National Parks (large elephant herds)
• Samburu National Reserve (unique wildlife)

Coastal Areas:

• Mombasa (beautiful beaches, Swahili culture)
• Lamu Island (historic architecture, pristine beaches)
• Malindi (coastal resort town)

Cities:

• Nairobi (capital, museums, national park)
• Kisumu (Lake Victoria region)

• Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KES)
• Credit Cards: Widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas
• Cash: Preferred in rural areas and markets
• ATMs: Available in cities and major towns
• US Dollars: Sometimes accepted in tourist areas

Kenya is generally safe for tourists, especially in:

• Major tourist destinations (national parks, beaches)
• Tourist areas in cities
• Safari lodges and camps
• Popular coastal resorts

Safety Tips:

• Exercise standard travel precautions
• Use reputable tour operators
• Keep valuables secure
• Stay informed about local conditions
• Follow advice from local authorities

Mandatory:

• Yellow Fever: Required for all travelers (certificate mandatory)

Recommended:

• Routine vaccinations (measles, mumps, rubella, etc.)
• Hepatitis A and B
• Tetanus and typhoid
• Malaria prophylaxis (essential for most regions)
• Rabies (for extended stays or rural areas)

Important: Consult with a travel health specialist before your trip to Kenya.

While not mandatory, comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended for:

• Medical emergencies and evacuation
• Trip cancellations and interruptions
• Lost or stolen belongings
• Adventure activities (safaris, hiking, etc.)
• Emergency assistance services

Kenya has good healthcare facilities in major cities, but medical costs can be high for visitors without insurance.

In addition to standard requirements, business travelers need:

• Business invitation letter from Kenyan company
• Company registration documents
• Letter from employer stating purpose of visit
• Proof of business meetings or conferences
• Trade license or professional credentials (if applicable)

No, you must apply for a business eVisa if you plan to:

• Attend business meetings
• Participate in conferences or trade shows
• Conduct commercial activities
• Explore business opportunities

Using a tourist eVisa for business purposes may result in entry denial or visa violations.

Yes, if you're transiting through Kenya, you can apply for a Transit eVisa:

• Validity: 72 hours
• Government Fee: $21 USD
• Processing Time: 1 working day
• Purpose: Airport transit and short layovers

Important: Even if you're not leaving the airport, you may still need a transit visa depending on your nationality and flight routing.

If your travel plans change:

• Travel Dates: Contact our support team. Some date changes may be possible
• Entry Point: Usually not changeable, but check with immigration
• Cancellation: Government fees are generally non-refundable

Best Practice: Apply for your eVisa close to your actual travel dates to minimize the need for changes.

A Kenya eVisa only allows entry to Kenya. To visit other countries, you'll need:

• Separate visas for each destination
• Check visa requirements for neighboring countries (Tanzania, Uganda, etc.)
• Some countries may have visa-on-arrival options

East African Tourist Visa: Consider this option if planning to visit multiple EAC countries.

Partly, and the split matters because two different organisations are holding your money.

Four things matter, and they are all checkable before you pay.

A short core set covers almost every Kenya application, with a little variation by purpose of travel.

Start with the validity window on the approval itself, because that is what governs — not the itinerary you described on the form.

Payment is taken by card through an encrypted checkout at the end of the application. Card details are handled by the payment processor — they are not stored on our systems.

Yes. You can complete the Kenya eVisa application online, upload required documents, and pay securely through the application flow. Common options include: Tourist ETA (Single Entry for 90 days) / Business ETA (Single Entry for 90 days) / Transit ETA (Single Entry for 72 hours).

Most applicants need a valid passport, a compliant passport-style photo, travel details, and accommodation information for Kenya. Some routes also require invitation, sponsor, financial, or itinerary evidence, so it is important to match your uploads to the exact visa type you selected and verify the live checklist before payment.

Kenya currently supports Single Entry. The option available to you depends on the visa type and eligibility. Typical stay duration: 90 days or 90 days.

For Kenya, many travelers enter intended flight details rather than fully paid tickets, but exact booking expectations vary by visa type and nationality. Confirm what the Kenya application asks for before you pay, and keep your onward or return plan consistent with the travel dates on your file.

Accommodation details are commonly requested for Kenya, so be ready to provide a hotel booking, host address, or invitation depending on your trip type. Keep the address and dates aligned with the rest of your Africa itinerary so the application is reviewed without inconsistencies.

Yes, when your trip type requires sponsor or host details. Invitation documents may strengthen the file for business or private-visit purposes.

Plan for at least one blank passport page for most Kenya trips, and keep two blank pages when possible if your route could involve extra entry/exit stamps, overland borders, or additional immigration checks. The practical goal is to make sure officers have enough clear space to stamp your passport without questioning whether the document is travel-ready.

Do not rely on blank pages alone:

• confirm the separate passport validity rule before you apply;
• renew early if your passport is nearly full, damaged, or close to expiry;
• keep your visa approval, flights, and accommodation details aligned with the same passport.

Use the live Kenya visa requirements before travel if you want the full checklist in one place.

Your passport should usually stay valid for at least 6 months beyond your trip to Kenya, but you should check the exact rule for your nationality and visa route before submitting the application. Border officers and airlines look at both validity and physical passport condition, so a passport that is near expiry, damaged, or almost full can still create problems even if your visa is approved.

Before you travel:

• make sure the passport number and spelling in your application exactly match the passport you will carry;
• check the separate blank passport page requirement;
• renew early if your passport is worn, water-damaged, or close to the minimum validity threshold.

For the latest document checklist, review Kenya visa requirements.

Yes. For Kenya, each traveler including minors normally needs an individual eVisa approval unless a specific exemption is published by the authorities. Apply per child with their own passport and photo, and keep their details consistent with the adult itinerary so the whole Africa trip is reviewed without mismatches.

A torn, water-damaged, or unreadable passport can cause a Kenya eVisa rejection or boarding denial even after approval, because officers check both your data and the physical condition of the document. Renew the passport before applying if the photo page is unclear, the machine-readable zone is worn, or pages are loose — particularly when entering Africa, where document checks can be strict.

Digital proof of your Kenya eVisa may be accepted in some cases, but a printed backup is safer in case your phone battery, connectivity, or app access fails at check-in or Africa immigration. Treat the print copy as your fallback, not your only option.

Kenya applications are assessed per person, so there is no single household form — each traveler needs their own passport details, photo, and documents that match the selected visa type. You can complete several Kenya applications back-to-back in one session, which is convenient for families, but you submit and pay for each applicant individually.

Use a recent passport-style photo with a plain background, clear face visibility, and even lighting, then match the exact upload format and size shown in the Kenya application form. Because Kenya eVisa decisions are made from your uploaded file, a blurry or non-compliant photo is one of the most common causes of delay for Africa applications, so review the image quality before you submit.

Carrying a printed Kenya eVisa is strongly recommended even where digital copies are accepted, because airline check-in staff and Africa border officers may still ask for paper proof. Keep the printout together with your passport and accommodation details so check-in and arrival go smoothly.

Typical reasons include incomplete forms, passport mismatch, poor document quality, ineligible nationality, or unclear travel purpose.

You can usually track your Kenya eVisa status through the application portal using the same reference details, passport information, and contact email used at submission. Common status stages include submitted, under review, approved, or action needed if more information is required.

If your status does not move as expected:

• check your inbox and spam folder for requests for extra documents;
• confirm that payment completed successfully;
• keep your passport and application reference ready before contacting support.

For a full pre-travel checklist while you wait, review Kenya visa requirements and the Kenya FAQ hub.

Yes. Carry a printed copy along with accommodation and return-plan proof for smoother check-in and arrival.