By Elainer Mogoa
The government of Kenya automated the new electronic visa (e-visa) processing system effect from 1 January 2021. All visa applications are processed online. All passengers travelling to Kenya from countries that require visas to Kenya are required to obtain an e-visa before boarding as no visas will be issued on arrival.
What is a Kenya Visa?
The Kenya visa is an electronic travel permit (eVisa) which is granted to travellers by the government of Kenya. The visa is mandatory and permits you to stay in Kenya for up to 90 days.
Types of Visas
1. Single Entry Visa
Issued for single entry to persons whose nationalities require a visa to enter Kenya either for business, tourism, medical or other reasons. It is valid for travel with 3 months from the date of issue
2. Transit Visa
Issued to persons connecting through Kenya to other destinations for a period not exceeding 72 hours. Those connecting flights directly without leaving the airport don’t need to apply for Transit visas.
3. Courtesy Visa
This is a visa issued to Diplomatic, Official and Service passport holders coming into the country on official duties, or transiting through Kenya to a third country for official business or duties. It is issued free of charge/ gratis.
4. East Africa Tourist Visa
This is a Joint Tourist Visa issued to persons travelling to and within Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda for tourism. You are required to present the eVisa Printout to immigration control at the point of entry. East Africa Visa Sticker will be issued at the point of entry in Kenya.
5. Multi-Entry Visa
Issued to Persons who frequent Kenya and their nationalities require a visa to enter Kenya either for business, tourism, medical or other reasons. You are required to present the eVisa Printout to immigration control at the point of entry. A Multiple entry visa is valid for 3 to 12 months from the date of issue.
6. 5 Year Multi-Entry Visa
Issued to USA nationals who require a visa to enter Kenya either for business or tourism. A 5-year Multiple Entry visa is valid for 5 years from the date of issue. You are required to present the eVisa Printout to immigration control at the point of entry.
Passport holders travelling to the Republic of Kenya are divided into three categories.
Category 1 – Nationals and persons who do not require visas to enter Kenya.
Category 2 – Nationals issued with visas on application.
Category 3 – Countries and Persons who require referred visas.
Search your country’s eligibility.
Extension of Visas
In the case that visitors wish to extend their visa for Kenya, this can be done once in Kenya at the Immigration Headquarters in Nairobi. The visa can be extended by 90 more days, totalling an electronic visa validity of 6 months (180 days). Visa extensions for Kenya will not exceed more than the extra 90-day extension and travellers who overstay their visa could be fined or face other sanctions.