Visa for Kenya from UK - How to Apply, Entry Requirements, Travel Guide & Packages
Kenya is a dream safari destination for many and for good reason. It is home to the famous Big Five, the Great Wildebeest Migration, and a sensational variety of historical sites, national parks, and beaches. However, most UK citizens and residents need to apply and obtain a Kenyan Visa to Travel to Kenya and be granted entry.
In this article, we outline everything you need to know before traveling to Kenya, from visa application and Kenya entry requirements to Kenyan laws and customs. We will also provide information about security in the country, and answer some frequently asked questions.
But before that, should you need any assistance applying for a Kenyan Visa for UK residents, or assistance planning the best Kenya safari from Uk, please contact us by phone or WhatsApp at +254704532105. You can also reach us via email at james@ajkenyasafaris.com or safarioffers@kenyaluxurysafari.co.uk.
Kenya Entry Requirements
For successful entry into Kenya, all visitors must meet these requirements;
Health
COVID-19
- All passengers traveling to Kenya aged 12 and above must present a COVID-19 vaccination certificate or a negative COVID-19 PCR test conducted within the last 72 hours prior to takeoff. Travelers with neither of the two or those that display flu-like symptoms are mandated to undergo a rapid antigen test at their own cost of £24.71 For those who test positive for the antigen RDT, a PCR test will be mandatory at their own expense of £41.18. Additionally, they will be required to isolate following the Ministry of Health guidance in regard to isolation procedures.
- All visitors entering Kenya who display flu-like symptoms are obligated to complete the Passenger Locator Form on the ‘Jitenge’ digital platform. They are to also undergo a rapid antigen test at their own expense regardless of age or vaccination status. If the test is positive, they are required to take a COVID-19 PCR test at their own expense.
- According to the government of Kenya, full vaccination means having received the full prescribed doses of a specific vaccine at least two weeks before arrival. The vaccine must be one that is approved by the World Health Organization. The Republic of Kenya accepts the UK’s proof of COVID-19 recovery and vaccination record and proof of COVID-19 vaccination issued in the Crown Dependencies.
- Those who are not vaccinated must show a negative COVID-19 PCR test conducted not more than 72 hours before departure.
P.S: Travellers below 12 years old are not required to show a negative PCR test or any proof of vaccination.
Yellow Fever Requirements
Passengers travelling from these destinations might need to show a yellow fever vaccination certificate when entering Kenya. Pro tip: It is always advisable to take out medical insurance before traveling to any new country.
Who Needs a Visa to Enter Kenya?
All visitors traveling to Kenya require a visa with the exception of these few individuals.
- Children below the age of 16 (Unfortunately, this exception does not extend to the East African tourist visa.)
- Citizens from these countries
- Holders of a Kenyan re-entry pass, those in possession of an EU laissez-passer, and passengers on aircraft that remain in the international transit zone of both Nairobi and Mombasa airports.
- Holders of Gratis visas (here’s a full list).
- Holders of referred visas (here’s a full list of those who qualify for one)
Kenyan Visa: Types and Information
Depending on the reasons for your travel to the Republic of Kenya, you may need one of these visas:
- Single entry visa- Issued for single entry to individuals whose nationality necessitates a visa to enter Kenya, whether for business, leisure, or medical purposes.
- Multiple entry visa- Issued to individuals who frequently travel to Kenya and whose nationalities necessitate a visa to enter Kenya either for medical, tourism, business, or other reasons.
- 5-year multiple entry visa- This visa is issued to American citizens who need a permit to travel to Kenya for business or pleasure.
- Courtesy entry visa- Issued free of charge to passport holders on official business or duties, including those with diplomatic, service, and official passports in transit for such purposes.
- Transit visa- issued to individuals traveling through Kenya to other destinations for a maximum window of 72 hours.
Kenyan E-Visa: Application Process
The Kenyan e-visa application process is a six-step affair that requires that ;
- Go to www.ecitizen.go.ke and click create an account.
- Click on the e-Visa application
- Fill out the visa application form and submit application
- Pay using Mastercard, Visa Card, and any other credit or debit cards
- After you get approval, simply log into your e-citizen account and download the visa to print.
- At the port of entry, present your printed e-Visa to the immigration officer.
P.S: Once you apply online, it takes at least two business days to get your e-Visa (Incomplete applications will be rejected).
Travel Documents: Passports, Visas, Work Permits, and the UK Emergency Travel Documents (ETDs)
Passport Validity
In Kenya, your passport is only valid if it is;
- Valid for at least six months from your arrival date
- And if it has at least two blank pages when you arrive
Visa Validity
A single-entry visa is only valid for 3 months from the date of issuance.
Pro tip: the photo used in your visa registration must be taken on a white background.
Work Permits
The Republic of Kenya mandates that all non-citizens must have work permits before beginning employment or any form of business in the country. Engaging in any form of employment without the requisite permit might lead to arrest.
You can apply online for the work permit at the Department of Immigration Services website. If already in Kenya, and your work permit has already been approved, you are required to present your passport to immigration for stamping.
UK Emergency Travel Documents (ETDs)
The Immigration department allows the use of UK ETDs for exit, entry, and transit from Kenya. Like passports, ETDs have to be valid for at least 6 months.
Local laws and customs
Embracing local authorities, customs and traditions are essential for a successful, trouble-free visit to Kenya. Here are a few local laws we think you should know.
Religion
While there are no rigid dress codes, it is worth noting that the coastal areas typically abide by Islamic traditions. One should, therefore, dress conservatively to avoid offending locals, especially during religious holidays like Ramadhan.
Smoking
Smoking in Kenya is restricted to designated smoking areas. Even though smoking in outdoor public spaces such as streets or beaches is not prohibited by any act, it’s wise to double-check before lighting up a cigarette. Better yet, just don’t smoke if you’re uncertain of the rules and regulations.
Drugs
The Kenyan government has strict policies on the possession and sale of Class A drugs, with heavy fines and jail sentences as possible punishments. Those found in possession will be subjected to a ten-year prison sentence without exception.
Photographs
It’s illegal to take photographs of official buildings in Kenya, including Kenyan embassies, without authorization.
Money
It is an offense against Kenyan law to damage, deface, or destroy any amount of its currency.
Relationships
Homosexuality is illegal in the Republic of Kenya.
Security Travel Advice When Traveling to Kenya
Although generally safe, there are some areas in Kenya that are prone to violent crime and are at increased risk of terrorist attacks. Here are a few precautions you should take to stay safe while in Kenya.
- For your own safety, we highly recommend that you stay away from the Kenya- Somali border due to the high risk of terrorist attacks in the region. On April 2019, two Cuban doctors were abducted in the region, an attack that was linked to the notorious Al Shabab.
- If traveling to Lamu Island, or Lamu County for that matter, do so by air not via road. This will reduce the risk of a terrorist attack.
- You should be extra vigilant when traveling to large cities such as Nairobi, Kisumu, and Mombasa, due to the high number of petty crimes recorded there.
- Never leave your luggage unattended
- Avoid walking alone on dark streets, especially at night. Though sexual assault is not common in Kenya, doing this puts you at risk.
- Only carry the amount of cash you need with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here we answer some of your most frequently asked questions about travelling to Kenya.
Can I get a visa for Kenya on arrival?
No, It is not possible for travelers to acquire a visa at the port of entry. To get your e-visa simply visit this website, fill out the visa application form, provide proof of payment using one of several secure methods, and submit it for processing.
How much is a visa for Kenya?
Your visa processing fee depends on the type of visa you are applying for. Charges are as follows;
| Type of Visa | Visa Processing Fee (non-refundable) |
|---|---|
| Single entry visa | £41.91 |
| Transit visa | £17.26 |
| Courtesy visa | Free |
| Multiple entry visa | £82.99 |
| Referred visa | £41.91 |
Do I need a visa to travel to Kenya?
Yes, It is necessary for travelers to obtain a visa before entering Kenya. You can apply for an e-visa online through the immigration website.
How long does it take to get Kenya visa?
It takes at least two business days to get your e-visa. We do, however, recommend starting the application process two weeks before you travel in case of any challenges.
How do I apply for an e-visa to Kenya?
You need to apply online to get your e-visa. This is how;
- Go to this website and click create an account.
- Click on the e-Visa application
- Fill out the visa application form and submit application
- Pay using Mastercard, Visa Card, and any other credit or debit cards
- After you get approval, simply log into your e-citizen account and download the visa to print.
- At the port of entry, present your printed e-Visa to the immigration officer.
P.S: Incomplete applications will be rejected
Can you get a Kenya visa online?
Yes, the Kenyan government has introduced an e-visa system that allows travelers to apply for their visas online. This method is convenient and saves time as you only need to print out the visa after approval. To get your e-Visa simply visit www.ecitizen.go.ke, fill out the application form, provide proof of payment, and submit it for processing.
How long can I stay in Kenya on a tourist visa?
A single-entry tourist visa allows you to stay in Kenya for a period of up to 3 months. A multiple-entry visa, on the other hand, allows you to stay in Kenya for up to 6 months. You can apply for an extension of your visa if needed.
Can you work in Kenya without a work permit?
No, to be able to legally work in the country, you need to acquire the requisite permit. A work permit is usually valid for up to two years and needs to be renewed annually. You can apply for a work permit online or via the Directorate of Immigration Services in Nairobi.
How much is a tourist visa for Kenya?
The visa processing fee for a single-entry tourist visa is £41.91. You need to pay this fee online using Mastercard, Visa Card, or any other credit or debit card.
Who requires a visa to enter Kenya?
All foreign travelers need to obtain a Kenyan visa prior to entering the country. However, citizens of certain countries including Comoros and Malawi are exempt from this requirement.
How long can a visitor stay in Kenya?
A single-entry tourist visa allows a traveler to stay in the country for a period of up to three months. A multiple-entry visa, on the other hand, allows up to six months. Extensions can be applied if needed.
Can I travel to Kenya without a passport?
No, a valid passport is required for travel to Kenya. It should have at least 6 months remaining before expiration and two blank pages upon arrival.
Which documents do I need when travelling to Kenya?
When travelling to Kenya, you need to have the following documents:
– a Valid passport
-A completed and signed visa application form
– A valid credit or debit card
– Two passport-sized photographs, taken within the last six months
– Documents proving your purpose of travel (if applicable)
– Proof of sufficient funds for your stay in the country
-A detailed itinerary showing your travel plans and accommodation.
These documents will be used to assess your eligibility for the visa. Failure to provide these may result in a denial of entry into Kenya.