Kenya Visa And Entry Requirements

Tourist Visa Basics

Kenya welcomes tourists with a straightforward E-Visa system. Most international travelers require a tourist visa, which is valid for 90 days and costs $51 USD for a single-entry option. Applications must be submitted through the official E-Visa portal (evisa.go.ke) at least 3 business days before travel. Kenya recently implemented visa-free entry for certain countries to boost tourism, but most visitors still need to apply in advance.

Tourist Documentation Requirements

For a successful tourist visa application, you’ll need:

• Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay
• Recent digital passport photo
• Return flight ticket or proof of onward travel
• Hotel bookings or detailed travel itinerary
• Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
• Completed online application form
• Credit/debit card for visa fee payment

Tourist-Specific Considerations

The East Africa Tourist Visa is an excellent option for visitors planning to explore Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda, offering multiple entries across these countries for $100 USD. Adventure tourists visiting Kenya’s national parks need to purchase separate Kenya Wildlife Service conservation fees ($30-80 USD depending on the park) in addition to visa requirements.

Beach tourists heading to coastal areas like Mombasa or Diani require the same standard tourist visa. Tourist visa holders cannot engage in paid work or business activities during their stay.

Important Tourist Information

• Peak tourist seasons (July-September and December-February) may require earlier visa applications due to higher processing volumes
• Tourist visas can be extended within Kenya at immigration offices for up to 6 months total
• Major tourist entry points include Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi) and Moi International Airport (Mombasa)
• Safari tourists should carry printed copies of their visa confirmation
• Yellow fever vaccination certificates are required for tourists visiting from endemic countries
• The Kenyan tourism authority recommends travel insurance covering emergency medical evacuation