Kenya replaced its visa system with an electronic travel authorisation, applied for online before departure. There is no consular visa appointment for ordinary visitors, and the fee is not refundable even if the application is refused.
Quick facts
Kenya has moved towards open access for the continent: citizens of most African countries are now exempt from the authorisation fee, with a small number of exceptions still required to obtain one.
Fees breakdown
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Electronic travel authorisation | Around $30 | Non-refundable |
| African Union citizens | Largely exempt | Limited exceptions remain |
| Work or residence permit | Charged in Kenya | Immigration department |
| Yellow fever vaccination | Charged by your clinic | Depending on your route |
| Extension of stay | Charged in Kenya | Before the permitted period ends |
Work requires a permit arranged by the employer in Kenya. The travel authorisation never authorises employment, whatever the length of stay granted.
How to apply
- Apply on the official authorisation portal well before travel.
- Upload the passport bio-data page, a photograph and your itinerary.
- Provide accommodation details and a return or onward ticket.
- Pay online, remembering the fee is not returned if refused.
- Carry the printed approval, since airlines check it.
- Apply for any permit or extension with immigration in Kenya.
Required documents
- Passport valid at least six months with blank pages.
- Photograph to the portal’s specification.
- Accommodation booking or host details.
- Return or onward ticket.
- Evidence of funds where requested.
- Vaccination certificate depending on your route.
Where to apply
Online. Missions advise on categories and handle permits and referrals the portal does not cover.
Additional notes
Only the official portal
Numerous sites resell the authorisation at a markup. The government system is the source and the price is published there.
Kenyans need nothing
Kenyan citizens travel on a Kenyan passport. Dual nationals should read the citizenship page before assuming their other passport is enough.
Regional movement
East African Community arrangements give member-state nationals their own rights of entry and stay.
Non-refundable means non-refundable
The fee covers processing, not the outcome. Check the requirements before applying.