How to Get a Kenya eVisa in 2026: Step-by-Step Application Guide

Kenya eVisa: What You Need to Know

Kenya requires most visitors to obtain an electronic visa (eVisa) before arrival. The process is straightforward and entirely online — no embassy visit needed. Processing takes 2-7 business days, and the visa is valid for 90 days.

Who Needs a Kenya eVisa?

Most nationalities need a visa. Notable exemptions include citizens of East African Community member states (Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan) and a few other countries.

Check the official Kenya eVisa portal for your nationality's specific requirements. The list changes periodically.

eVisa Types for Safari Visitors

Single-Entry Tourist Visa — $50 USD Valid for 90 days from the date of entry. Allows one entry into Kenya. This is what 95% of safari visitors need.

East Africa Tourist Visa — $100 USD Valid for 90 days. Allows multiple entries between Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda during that period. Essential if your itinerary crosses between these countries (common for gorilla trekking + Masai Mara combos).

Transit Visa — $20 USD Valid for 72 hours. Only for travelers transiting through Kenya to another destination.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Gather Documents

Before starting the application, have these ready as digital files:

• Passport scan — Bio-data page, clear and in colour. Passport must be valid for 6+ months from your entry date with at least 2 blank pages
• Passport photo — Recent, white background, 500x500 pixels minimum
• Travel itinerary — Flight booking confirmation (doesn't need to be paid in full, a reservation works)
• Accommodation proof — Hotel/lodge booking confirmation or invitation letter from your safari operator
• Return ticket — Proof of onward travel

Step 2: Create an Account

Visit the official Kenya eVisa portal. Create an account with your email address. You'll receive a verification email — click the link to activate.

Step 3: Start a New Application

Log in and click "Submit Application." Select "Single-Entry Visa" or "East Africa Tourist Visa" depending on your needs.

Step 4: Fill in Personal Details

• Full name (exactly as it appears on your passport)
• Date of birth, nationality, occupation
• Passport number, issue date, expiry date
• Contact details in Kenya (your safari operator's or hotel's address)

Step 5: Upload Documents

Upload your passport scan, photo, and supporting documents. File requirements: JPEG or PDF, under 2MB each.

Step 6: Pay the Fee

Payment is by credit/debit card (Visa or Mastercard). $50 for single-entry, $100 for East Africa visa. The payment is non-refundable, even if the visa is rejected.

Step 7: Submit and Wait

You'll receive an application reference number. Processing takes 2-7 business days (some reports of 10+ days during peak season). Check your application status by logging into your account.

Step 8: Download and Print

Once approved, download the eVisa PDF and print it. Carry a printed copy — some immigration officers at Kenyan airports request it even though the system is electronic.

Common Mistakes That Cause Rejection

Name mismatch: Your application name must match your passport exactly. Middle names, hyphens, and spelling all matter. "John Smith" on the application and "John Andrew Smith" on the passport will cause problems.

Expired passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months AFTER your planned entry date. If your passport expires within 6 months, renew it before applying.

Blurry document uploads: Use a scanner, not a phone camera in dim light. The bio-data page must be fully legible. Glare, shadows, or cut-off edges trigger manual review delays.

Insufficient travel documentation: Include your safari booking confirmation, not just flight details. Immigration wants to see where you're staying and what you're doing in Kenya.

Applying too late: Apply 2-4 weeks before departure. While processing is usually 2-7 days, peak season delays happen. Last-minute applications cause unnecessary stress.

At the Airport

When you arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi) or Moi International Airport (Mombasa):

1. Have your printed eVisa ready
2. Join the "eVisa" or "Pre-Approved" immigration queue (not the "Visa on Arrival" queue)
3. Present your passport, eVisa printout, and return ticket
4. Immigration may ask about your itinerary — knowing your safari details helps
5. Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) are taken at the desk
6. Processing takes 5-15 minutes

East Africa Tourist Visa: When You Need It

If your safari itinerary includes any of these combinations, get the East Africa visa ($100) instead of single-entry ($50):

• Kenya + Rwanda (gorilla trekking + Masai Mara)
• Kenya + Uganda (Queen Elizabeth NP + Masai Mara)
• Kenya + Rwanda + Uganda (comprehensive East Africa trip)

The East Africa visa must be applied for through the country of first entry. If you land in Nairobi first, apply through Kenya's eVisa system. If you land in Kigali first, apply through Rwanda's system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a visa on arrival in Kenya?

Kenya has been transitioning to eVisa-only. While some nationalities can still get visa on arrival, the eVisa is strongly recommended — it avoids potential queues and uncertainty at the airport. Check current policy before relying on visa on arrival.

How long can I stay in Kenya on a tourist visa?

90 days from the date of entry. Extensions are possible through the Kenya Immigration Department in Nairobi but involve paperwork and fees.

Do children need their own visa?

Yes. Every traveler, regardless of age, needs their own eVisa. Children's applications are submitted by a parent through the same portal. The fee is the same ($50 single-entry).

What if my visa is rejected?

You can reapply immediately. Review the rejection reason (usually document quality or missing information), fix the issue, and submit again. The $50 fee applies each time. Consider having your safari operator review your application before resubmitting.