Planning a trip to Kenya? To ensure a smooth journey, it’s crucial to navigate the Kenya eVisa application process carefully. This guide provides essential tips and general information to help you avoid common mistakes and make your application process as hassle-free as possible.
Types of Kenya eVisas
1. Tourist Visa
Ideal for travelers exploring Kenya for leisure or visiting family and friends. It’s valid for 90 days from the date of approval and allows a stay of up to 90 days.
2. Business Visa
For those conducting business activities in Kenya. This visa is also valid for 90 days from the date of approval and allows for a stay of up to 90 days.
3. Transit Visa
Applicable for travelers passing through Kenya to another destination. Valid for 72 hours from the intended entry date.
4. East Africa Tourist Visa
A multiple-entry visa for Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. During its 3-month validity period, you can travel between these three countries as often as you like.
Check Your Passport Validity
Your passport is a crucial document for the Kenya eVisa application. It must be valid for at least 6 months from your planned arrival date in Kenya. If your passport expires within 180 days, you will need to renew it before applying for the eVisa.
The electronic visa is digitally linked to your passport. Any changes to your passport data could invalidate the visa, so ensure your passport details are correct before applying.
Provide Accurate Information
When filling out the Kenya eVisa application form, accuracy is key. You will need to provide personal details, contact information, travel dates, and supporting documents. Errors or typos can lead to delays or visa refusal. Here’s what you need to include:
East Africa Tourist Visa:
- Hotel reservations
- Return ticket
Transit Visa:
- Hotel reservations
- Return ticket
- Onward ticket
Business Visa:
- Company registration certificate
- Staff ID of the inviter or representative
- Kenyan ID of the inviter or representative
- Inviter or representative’s passport bio-data page
- Passport immigration status page of the inviter or representative
Always double-check your data and documents before submission to avoid issues.
Apply for Kenya eVisa in Advance
Although the eVisa system eliminates the need to visit an embassy or consulate, it’s still important to apply well in advance. The application needs time for processing by both our specialists and Kenyan authorities. Apply at least a few days before your trip to avoid last-minute complications, but avoid applying too early.
Choose the Right Entry Port
Not all entry points in Kenya accept eVisas. Make sure you select an entry port that supports electronic visas. Here are some of the entry points where eVisas are accepted:
Airports:
- Eldoret International Airport
- Garissa Airport
- Jomo Kenyatta Airport (Nairobi)
- Kisumu Airport
- Lamu Airport
- Lokichogio Airport
- Malindi Airport
- Moi Airport (Mombasa)
- Wajir International Airport
- Wilson Airport (Nairobi)
Border Crossings:
- Busia
- Isebania
- Liboi
- Loitokitok
- Lungalunga
- Malaba
- Mandera
- Moyale
- Nadapal
- Namanga
- Taveta
Seaports:
- Busia
- Kilindini Seaport
- Kisumu
- Kuinga
- Lamu
- Malindi
- Mbita
- Muhuru Bay
- Old Port
- Shimoni
- Vanga
Conclusion
Obtaining a Kenya eVisa is more straightforward than ever, but knowing the essential details can prevent issues and delays. By following these tips and ensuring accuracy in your application, you can enjoy a seamless entry into Kenya and focus on your travel experiences. Safe travels!
How Long Does Kenya’s eVisa Take?
The processing time for Kenya’s eVisa typically takes about 2 to 3 business days. However, this duration can be longer if the application is incomplete or if additional information is required. It is advisable to apply well in advance of your travel date to ensure timely approval.
Do I Need a Visa to Transit Through Kenya?
Yes, if you plan to leave the airport during your transit in Kenya, you will need a transit visa. However, if you are connecting flights and will remain in the airport without passing through immigration, a visa is not required.
Is Kenya eVisa Easy?
Yes, the Kenya eVisa application process is generally considered easy. It can be completed online in just a few minutes, requiring basic personal information and payment. The system is designed to streamline the visa application process, eliminating the need for in-person visits to embassies or consulates.
How Much Is Kenya’s eVisa?
The cost of Kenya’s eVisa varies depending on the type of visa. A single entry visa typically costs around USD 51, while a transit visa is approximately USD 21. Additional fees may apply for other visa types, such as multiple-entry visas or East African tourist visas.
Leave a comment