Do I Need a Visa to Visit Kenya as a U.S. Citizen?

Yes, U.S. citizens do need a visa to visit Kenya. Visas can be obtained from the Kenyan Embassy in Washington D.C., or Kenyan consulates in other U.S. cities. Citizens from certain countries may also be eligible to apply for an eVisa, which can be done online.

What Types of Visas Can I Get for Kenya as a U.S. Citizen?

U.S. citizens traveling to Kenya must obtain a visa prior to arrival. This can be done through the Kenyan Embassy or one of its consulates in the United States, or through a third-party visa service. The types of available visas include single entry, multiple entry, transit, and transit courtesy visas. Single entry visas are valid for 90 days, while multiple entry visas are valid for 6 months and can be used multiple times within the same period. Transit and transit courtesy visas are valid for 72 hours, and are used for those traveling through Kenya on their way to other destinations.

Do I Need an Visa Interview to Visit Kenya as a U.S. Citizen?

Yes. U.S. citizens visiting Kenya for any purpose, including tourism, are required to obtain a visa before entering the country. To apply for a visa, you must submit your application to the nearest Kenyan embassy or consulate and attend an in-person interview.

What are the Required Documents to Visit Kenya as a U.S. Citizen?

A U.S. citizen visiting Kenya must possess a valid passport with at least one blank page for entry/exit stamps and a valid Kenyan visa. Other documents that may be required include proof of yellow fever vaccination, proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay, and a return or onward ticket. Additionally, travelers who plan to stay longer than 90 days will need to apply for a residence permit.

What are the Steps to Apply for a Visa to Visit Kenya as a U.S. Citizen?

1. Obtain a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of your intended departure from Kenya. Make sure you have at least two blank pages in the passport.

2. Complete the Kenyan Visa application form and submit it in person, by mail, or by 3rd party visa agency to the Kenyan embassy or consulate.

3. Provide two passport-sized photos with a white background.

4. Provide a copy of your round-trip airline ticket itinerary or other evidence of onward/return travel.

5. Provide a copy of your hotel reservations or evidence of other accommodation arrangements for your stay in Kenya.

6. Provide a letter from your employer stating the purpose and duration of your stay in Kenya or, if traveling for leisure, provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Kenya.

7. Pay the applicable visa fee with a money order, cashier’s check or bank draft. Personal checks are not accepted.

Are There Special Instructions to Visit Kenya as a U.S. Citizen?

Yes. U.S. citizens visiting Kenya must have a valid passport and a valid visa. Visas can be obtained from the Kenya Embassy or the Kenyan High Commission in Washington, D.C. before traveling to Kenya. U.S. citizens should also register their travel with the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi upon arrival. All travelers to Kenya must meet certain health requirements, including having a valid yellow fever certificate. Additionally, U.S. citizens should take appropriate steps to protect their personal safety and security while in Kenya, including avoiding large crowds and demonstrations, and being aware of their surroundings at all times.

What is the Visa Fee to Visit Kenya as a U.S. Citizen?

The visa fee for a U.S. citizen to visit Kenya is $51.00 USD.

What is the Processing Time to Get a Visa to Visit Kenya as a U.S. Citizen?

The processing time for a visa to visit Kenya as a U.S. citizen is typically 3-4 weeks.

What to Do in Case of a Visa Denial to Visit Kenya as a U.S. Citizen?

If your visa application to visit Kenya as a U.S. citizen is denied, you should first contact the Kenyan Embassy or Consulate in the United States that handled the application. You can ask for a written explanation of why your visa application was denied and appeal or reapply if necessary. If the Kenyan Embassy or Consulate cannot provide a satisfactory explanation, you may wish to contact the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Overseas Citizens Services, which can provide advice and assistance in cases of visa denials.

What are the Frequently Asked Visa Questions and Answers to Visit Kenya as a U.S. Citizen?

Q: Do I need a visa to visit Kenya as a U.S. citizen?

A: Yes, you will need a valid visa to enter Kenya. Visitors from the United States are eligible for a single-entry, three-month visa. You can apply for your visa in advance online or in person at a Kenyan embassy or consulate.

Q: How much does the Kenyan visa cost?

A: The cost of a Kenyan visa for U.S. citizens is currently $50 USD ($51 USD for online applications). This fee is subject to change without notice.

Q: How long does it take to process a Kenyan visa application?

A: It typically takes up to 5 business days for the Kenyan Embassy or Consulate to process your visa application after receipt of your documents and payment.

Q: What documents do I need to apply for a Kenyan visa?

A: To apply for a Kenyan visa, you must provide the following documents: a valid passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining, two recent passport photos, proof of onward travel (airline ticket, itinerary or letter of invitation), and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Kenya (bank statement, credit card statement, or cash).