The government of Kenya has introduced a new visa application procedure, which is in effect as of July 1st, 2015. Before visiting Kenya, travelers must fill out an eVisa application via the eCitizen portal. After receiving the eVisa, travelers must download and present a hard copy of the eVisa upon arrival in Kenya.

There is a two-month grace period through July and August, when visas may still be applied for on arrival. For travelers set to visit Kenya from September 1st, 2015, an eVisa must be applied for and approved prior to the traveler’s departure. Approval after application and payment takes an estimated seven to ten days.

The process

• Prepare in advance: a digital passport photograph, a scanned copy of the information page of the traveler’s passport, and a digital copy of the itinerary or letter of invitation.
• Register on eCitizen’s website – www.ecitizen.go.ke
• Upload digital passport photograph
• Select… Department of Immigration Services > Submit Application > Kenyan Visa > ‘Apply for a Single Entry Visa’ or ‘Transit Visa.’
• Carefully read the entry requirements and select… ‘Apply Now’
• Follow application directions and input traveler information
• Pay processing fee eVisa is processed and sent online to applicant
• Log in to your eCitizen account, download and print approved eVisa
• Present a hard copy of your eVisa and passport at the point of entry

Please note that eVisas are now $52.28, including a $1 service charge and $1.28 card handling fee. The application process for the East Africa Tourist Visa remains as is.

For more information, visit: immigration.ecitizen.go.ke