If you're planning a trip to Kenya, understanding the visa and entry requirements is crucial. This guide provides essential information for travelers, including US citizens, to ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry into the country.
Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
As of 1 January 2024, citizens of all countries, except those specifically exempted, must apply for an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) in advance. It is recommended that you apply for an eTA several weeks before commencing travel to Kenya.
Even if your nationality does not require a visa, you may need to show additional documentation to get into the country.
The Government of Kenya utilizes an electronic visa issuance system which is the equivalent to a visa, but no stamp or label is placed in the passport.
Who Needs an eTA?
From 1 January 2024, foreign nationals, regardless of nationality, can enter Kenya without a visa for tourism or business travel for stays up to 90 days. Travelers must, however, obtain a new Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).
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Essential Requirements for Entry into Kenya
To enter Kenya, you generally need to meet the following requirements:
- An undamaged passport valid for at least six months from the date you exit Kenya
- At least two blank passport pages
- An electronic travel authorization (eTA)
- A return or onward ticket from Kenya
- Proof of funds to financially support yourself while traveling in Kenya
- Documentation supporting the purpose of your stay, like accommodation or tour booking.
Visa Types and Application
Kenyan visas are now exclusively issued electronically. The country has implemented a digital eVisa portal where travelers can apply for Kenyan eVisas. All visitors must obtain an eVisa before departing for Kenya. Applying for a Kenyan eVisa is a straightforward online process.
Visit the official Kenyan eVisa portal and fill out the application form for the appropriate visa.
Types of Kenyan eVisas:
- Single-entry visa: This visa is valid for three months from the date of issue for those traveling for business, tourism, or visiting family members and similar purposes. It requires details on the travel itinerary.
- Multiple-entry visa: This visa allows frequent entry to Kenya for business, tourism, medical, or other reasons.
- Five-year multiple-entry visa: Available exclusively for US nationals who need to visit Kenya frequently, either for business or tourism. It takes 10 working days to process. Travelers should keep in mind that the visa is tied to their passport.
- Transit visa: This visa applies to travelers connecting through Kenya to other destinations for a period not exceeding 72 hours.
- East Africa tourist visa: A Joint Tourist Visa issued for travel to and within Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda for tourism, this visa requires that travelers first arrive in Kenya.
Though Kenyan eVisas usually take 48 hours to process, they can occasionally take longer. To avoid complications, travelers should apply for their single-entry eVisa around 10 days before their planned travel date.
To be eligible the traveller must:
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- Start their journey in Kenya before travelling to Rwanda or Uganda
- Hold a passport valid at least six months on entry with one blank visa page
- Hold proof of sufficient funds
- Hold proof of onward/return flights
- Hold proof of hotel reservation
- Hold all documents required for the next destination
To complete the order form the traveller must provide:
- A photograph
- A copy of the passport information page
- A copy of the passport front cover page
- A copy of the flight confirmation
- A copy of the hotel confirmation
Specific Information for US Citizens
Yes, US citizens can travel to Kenya. To travel to Kenya, US citizens need a passport with at least two blank pages and a validity of six months. Additionally, US travelers must obtain Kenyan entry visas before departure.
Five-year multiple-entry visa: Available exclusively for US nationals who need to visit Kenya frequently, either for business or tourism. It takes 10 working days to process. Travelers should keep in mind that the visa is tied to their passport.
There is no visa on arrival in Kenya.
Other Important Considerations
Health Requirements
Before traveling to Kenya, ensure you have proof of yellow fever immunization. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 2 Practice Enhanced Precautions travel health notice for Kenya due to global polio. While Kenya has lifted travel restrictions and no longer requires a PCR test or proof of COVID-19 vaccination, the CDC recommends that all international travelers are up-to-date on COVID-19 vaccinations before going abroad.
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Travelers arriving in Kenya who display flu-like symptoms must fill out the passenger locator form on the jitenge platform and take a COVID-19 antigen test upon arrival at their own cost. Those who test positive on a COVID-19 antigen test must take a PCR test at their own cost. If the result is positive, you will be required to self-isolate.
Always carry your prescription medication in its original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Masks are required in closed spaces and private facilities, such as public transportation, transport hubs, government buildings, offices and shopping markets.
Customs and Duty Exemptions
Visitors, including delegates staying in Kenya for up to 3 months, are entitled to duty exemptions of up to $500 worth of non-consumable and consumable goods for personal use that they will take back at the end of the visit. These include non-alcoholic beverages and tobacco in quantities consistent with their visit intentions.
Staying Connected
Yes. For most tourist destinations, the answer is yes. There is ample cell phone coverage in Kenya in the areas of the highest population and most popular tourist locations. If your US phone is unlocked and supports the GSM network, then you can use your mobile phone in Kenya. If you plan to use your mobile phone, check your provider’s roaming rates for voice, text, and data. For unlocked phones, you can also purchase a local SIM card on arrival to avoid roaming charges.
Kenya uses type G plugs, with three rectangular prongs set in a triangle, as you would find in the UK. If traveling from the US, you will need a power plug adapter.
Wear comfortable, light clothing. Loose-fitting clothes that cover you are best to avoid mosquito bites. You should also wear mosquito repellent.
Safety and Security
While in Kenya, be sure to follow the travel advice issued by the US Department of State and the CDC. Exercise strong personal security measures, adhere to local laws, and follow the rules established by local authorities.
Americans are instructed not to travel to certain Kenya-Somalia border counties and coastal areas because of terrorism and kidnapping, and to areas of Turkana County because of crime. There are higher-level advisories in place for some parts of the country as well.
Local Laws and Customs
Yes, but only in designated smoking areas and licensed establishments. While there are registered LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations in the country, consensual same-sex activity is criminalized under local law.
Same-sex activity is punishable by a maximum of 14 years in prison. Sexual relations between men are explicitly criminalized in a separate statute and punishable by up to 21 years in prison. Persons have been arrested under these laws, particularly suspected sex workers.
Overstaying your visa in Kenya can result in penalties, including fines and possible deportation. No separate entry or exit form is required for travel to Kenya as of the current regulations.
East African Tourist Visa
In February 2014, Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda issued an East African Tourist Visa. The visa fee USD 100 and has no restrictions on nationality.
Your valid Kenya ETA allows for more than one entry if you meet the following conditions:
- Visit any of the EAC countries (Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, or Uganda)
- AND Not visit any other country
An experienced visa specialist can help you navigate the complexities of border crossing requirements.
How to Apply for the KENYA E-Visa (eTA) Online – Step-by-Step Application Guide (2025)
Disclaimer: This page is for general information only and may be subject to change. You are responsible for obtaining relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates.
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