Kenya eVisa Complete Guide 2025: Everything You Need to Know

Planning a safari adventure in Kenya? The Kenya eVisa (Electronic Travel Authorization) makes it easier than ever to visit this spectacular East African destination. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining your Kenya eVisa, from requirements and application steps to travel tips and frequently asked questions.

Why Visit Kenya?

Kenya is a world-renowned destination that offers unparalleled wildlife experiences, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. From witnessing the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara to relaxing on pristine beaches in Mombasa, Kenya provides unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler.

Top Attractions in Kenya

• Maasai Mara National Reserve: Witness the annual Great Migration and the Big Five
• Amboseli National Park: Stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and elephant herds
• Nairobi: Modern capital with national parks, museums, and vibrant culture
• Mombasa: Beautiful beaches, Swahili culture, and historic Old Town
• Lake Nakuru: Flamingo paradise and rhino sanctuary
• Mount Kenya: Africa's second-highest peak for hiking and climbing

Understanding the Kenya eVisa System

The Kenya eVisa system, officially known as the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), was introduced to streamline the visa application process. This digital system allows eligible travelers to apply online without visiting an embassy or consulate, making travel to Kenya more accessible and convenient.

Key Benefits of Kenya eVisa

• 100% Online Application: Apply from anywhere in the world
• Fast Processing: Typically processed within 3 working days
• Secure System: Bank-level encryption protects your personal information
• Digital Delivery: Receive your eVisa via email
• Multiple Entry Options: Choose the visa type that suits your travel needs

Who Needs a Kenya eVisa?

Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter Kenya. The eVisa is available to citizens of eligible countries traveling for tourism, business, or transit purposes. Citizens of East African Community (EAC) member countries (Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan) are visa-exempt.

Eligible Nationalities

The Kenya eVisa is available to citizens of most countries worldwide, including:

• United States, Canada, and Mexico
• All European Union countries and the United Kingdom
• Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and Singapore
• Most African, Asian, and South American countries

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

Types of Kenya eVisas Available

1. Tourist ETA (Single Entry)

Validity: 90 days from entry Government Fee: $95 USD Purpose: Tourism, sightseeing, cultural visits, and leisure travel Processing Time: 3 working days (normal), 1 working day (urgent)

Perfect for travelers planning a safari, beach holiday, or cultural exploration of Kenya.

2. Business ETA (Single Entry)

Validity: 90 days from entry Government Fee: $95 USD Purpose: Business meetings, conferences, trade shows, and corporate events Processing Time: 3 working days (normal), 1 working day (urgent)

Ideal for professionals attending business events or exploring commercial opportunities in Kenya.

3. Transit ETA (Single Entry)

Validity: 72 hours from entry Government Fee: $65 USD Purpose: Airport transit and short layovers Processing Time: 1 working day

Designed for travelers transiting through Kenya to another destination.

Complete Kenya eVisa Requirements

Essential Documents for All Applicants

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, high-quality scan of the bio-data page required

2. Passport-Size Photograph

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

3. Travel Documentation

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

4. Financial Proof

• Bank statements showing sufficient funds for your stay
• Credit card statements or traveler's checks
• Proof of employment or financial support

Additional Requirements for Business Travelers

• Business invitation letter from a 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)

Document Quality Standards

All documents must meet these specifications:

• File Format: PDF or JPEG only
• File Size: Maximum 5MB per document
• Quality: Clear, legible, and in color
• Language: English (translations may be required for non-English documents)

Step-by-Step Kenya eVisa Application Process

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

Before starting your application, gather all required documents. Ensure they meet the quality standards mentioned above. Having everything ready will make the application process smoother and faster.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application Form

Visit our secure platform and complete the Kenya eVisa application form. You'll need to provide:

• Personal information (name, date of birth, nationality)
• Passport details (number, issue date, expiry date)
• Contact information (email, phone number, address)
• Travel details (arrival date, departure date, purpose of visit)
• Accommodation information in Kenya
• Emergency contact details

Accuracy is crucial: Ensure all information matches your passport exactly to avoid delays or rejection.

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

Upload all required documents through our secure portal:

• Passport bio-data page scan
• Passport-size photograph
• Proof of accommodation
• Flight tickets
• Financial documents
• Additional documents (if required for business travel)

Our system automatically validates file formats and sizes to prevent common submission errors.

Step 4: Review and Submit

Carefully review all information before submission. Our platform highlights any potential issues or missing information. Once verified, submit your application.

Step 5: Payment Processing

Pay the government fee and service charge securely online using:

• Credit or debit cards
• Bank transfer
• Other accepted payment methods

All payments are processed through secure, encrypted channels.

Step 6: Application Tracking

After submission, you'll receive a confirmation email with your application reference number. Use this to track your application status through our customer portal. You'll receive updates at each stage:

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

Step 7: Receive Your eVisa

Once approved, your Kenya eVisa will be delivered directly to your email inbox as a PDF document. Print multiple copies and keep digital copies on your mobile device for easy access during travel.

Kenya eVisa Fees and Processing Times

Fee Structure

Visa Type	Government Fee	Processing Time (Normal)	Processing Time (Urgent)
Tourist ETA	$95 USD	3 working days	1 working day
Business ETA	$95 USD	3 working days	1 working day
Transit ETA	$65 USD	1 working day	Same day

Important Notes:

• Processing times are estimates and may vary based on application volume
• Urgent processing is available for an additional fee
• Apply at least 1 week before your travel date to avoid delays
• No hidden costs or surprise fees

Entry Points and Border Crossings

Kenya eVisa holders can enter through the following entry points:

International Airports

• Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) - Nairobi
• Moi International Airport (MBA) - Mombasa
• Eldoret International Airport (EDL)
• Kisumu International Airport (KIS)

Land Borders

• Namanga (Tanzania border)
• Busia (Uganda border)
• Malaba (Uganda border)
• Moyale (Ethiopia border)
• Other designated border crossings

Seaports

• Port of Mombasa
• Port of Lamu

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

Travel Tips for Kenya

Best Time to Visit

Dry Seasons (January-March, July-October)

• Ideal for wildlife viewing and safaris
• Pleasant weather with clear skies
• Peak travel season for national parks
• Higher accommodation prices

Rainy Seasons (April-May, November)

• Lush green landscapes
• Fewer tourists and lower prices
• Some roads may be less accessible
• Still excellent for wildlife viewing

Popular Destinations

Nairobi

• Nairobi National Park (unique urban safari experience)
• Giraffe Centre and Elephant Orphanage
• Karen Blixen Museum
• Vibrant markets and cultural attractions

Maasai Mara National Reserve

• Great Migration (July-October)
• Big Five wildlife viewing
• Luxury safari lodges and camps
• Hot air balloon safaris

Mombasa and Coastal Areas

• Pristine beaches and water sports
• Swahili culture and historic Old Town
• Marine parks and diving
• Relaxation and luxury resorts

Cultural Considerations

Language: English and Kiswahili are official languages. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KES). Credit cards accepted in major cities, cash preferred in rural areas.

Tipping: 10% is customary in restaurants. Tip safari guides and drivers based on service quality.

Dress Code: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas.

Safety Tips

• Kenya is generally safe for tourists, especially in tourist areas
• Use reputable tour operators for safaris
• Exercise standard precautions in cities
• Keep valuables secure and avoid displaying wealth
• Follow local advice and stay informed about current conditions
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance

Health and Vaccination Requirements

• Yellow fever vaccination may be required (check current requirements)
• Malaria precautions recommended in some regions
• Drink bottled water
• Comprehensive travel insurance highly recommended
• Consult your doctor before traveling

Frequently Asked Questions About Kenya eVisa

Application Process

Q: How long does it take to process a Kenya eVisa? A: Normal processing takes 3 working days for tourist/business visas and 1 working day for transit visas. Urgent processing is available for faster turnaround.

Q: Can I apply for a Kenya eVisa if I have a criminal record? A: Having a criminal record doesn't automatically disqualify you, but you must declare it honestly in your application. Each case is assessed individually by Kenyan immigration authorities.

Q: What if I make a mistake on my application? A: Contact our support team immediately. Depending on the processing stage, corrections may be possible. It's crucial to ensure accuracy before submission.

Q: Do children need separate Kenya eVisas? A: Yes, each traveler regardless of age needs their own eVisa. Minors require additional documentation including parental consent forms.

Travel and Entry

Q: Can I extend my Kenya visa once in the country? A: Yes, visa extensions are possible for valid reasons. Visit the Immigration Department in Nairobi or contact local immigration offices for extension procedures.

Q: Can I use my Kenya eVisa for multiple entries? A: Current Kenya eVisa types are single-entry only. You'll need a new visa for subsequent visits to Kenya.

Q: Which airports can I use to enter Kenya with an eVisa? A: Kenya eVisa holders can enter through Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi), Moi International Airport (Mombasa), and other designated international airports.

Q: What happens if my Kenya eVisa is denied? A: Denials are rare, but if it occurs, you'll receive notification with the reason. Our team can help you address the issues and resubmit if appropriate.

Requirements and Documents

Q: What documents do I need for a Kenya eVisa? A: You need a valid passport, recent passport photo, proof of accommodation, return flight tickets, and sufficient funds. Business travelers may need additional documentation.

Q: How long must my passport be valid for Kenya? A: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in Kenya.

Q: Do I need travel insurance for Kenya? A: While not mandatory, comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen circumstances.

Why Choose United eVisa Services for Your Kenya Visa?

Expert Support and High Success Rate

• 98% Approval Rate: Our expert team ensures your application meets all requirements
• 24/7 Customer Support: Get help whenever you need it, day or night
• Expert Document Review: Our specialists review every document before submission
• Direct Relationships: We work directly with Kenyan immigration authorities

Transparent Pricing and Fast Processing

• No Hidden Fees: Complete transparency in pricing
• No Urgent Surcharges: Competitive rates without surprise costs
• Fast Processing: Efficient handling of all applications
• Secure Platform: Bank-level security protects your information

Proven Track Record

Join thousands of satisfied travelers who have successfully obtained their Kenya visa through our platform. Our customer reviews consistently highlight:

• Fast and efficient processing
• Excellent customer service
• Stress-free application experience
• Reliable visa delivery

Conclusion: Start Your Kenyan Adventure Today

Kenya offers an incredible blend of wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich culture. From the savannahs of the Maasai Mara to the white sands of the Indian Ocean coast, Kenya provides unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler.

Don't let visa requirements delay your Kenyan adventure. With United eVisa Services, obtaining your Kenya eVisa is simple, secure, and stress-free. Our expert team, proven track record, and commitment to customer satisfaction ensure you'll receive your visa quickly and efficiently.

Ready to apply for your Kenya eVisa?

[Start your application today] and join thousands of satisfied travelers who have discovered the beauty of Kenya with our professional visa services. Experience Kenya's world-famous safaris, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality with peace of mind.

Let us handle your visa while you plan your perfect Kenyan adventure!