If you're planning to visit the vibrant nation of Kenya, it's essential to know about the entry requirements and Kenyan entry visas. This article answers all your questions about travel to Kenya, including the documentation you'll need, health requirements, travel advice, and more.

Can US citizens travel to Kenya right now?

What travel documents do American citizens need to travel to Kenya?

Can US citizens go to Kenya without a passport?

Can US citizens get a Kenya visa on arrival?

Who can travel to Kenya without a visa?

How do I obtain or apply for a Kenya visa?

How much is a Kenya visa for US citizens?

How long is my Kenya visa valid?

What happens if I overstay my visa in Kenya?

How do I obtain an entry and exit form?

Kenya health requirements and screenings

FAQs on Kenya travel requirements

Online resources for travelers to Kenya

Always travel well-informed with A Briggs

Can US citizens travel to Kenya right now?

Yes, US citizens can travel to Kenya. However, because of security concerns and the ongoing global health situation, regularly checking for the latest information is advisable. The US Department of State currently has a Level 2 advisory for US travelers to Kenya, recommending increased caution in Kenya due to risks of crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping.

There are higher-level advisories in place for some parts of the country as well. 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. Travel should also be reconsidered for parts of Nairobi due to crime and kidnapping, and for parts of Laikipia County due to criminal incursions and security operations.

While in the country, travelers should monitor local media to keep informed of any issues that may affect their travels.

What travel documents do American citizens need to 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. Though Kenyan visa applications are now exclusively issued electronically, travelers must bring a print out of the visa to present to Kenyan authorities on arrival.

Can US citizens go to Kenya without a passport?

No, a passport is necessary for US citizens to enter Kenya. Six months of passport validity are required.

Can US citizens get a Kenya visa on arrival?

There is no visa on arrival in Kenya. 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. Once you receive your visa via email, you must print it out and bring the printout with you to present to authorities at the border.

Who can travel to Kenya without a visa?

Although US citizens require a visa, citizens from several countries can travel to Kenya visa-free, in addition to the following:

• Children under 16 (except those who travel with an East Africa tourist visa)
• People with a passport that is endorsed with a Kenyan work visa or reentry pass.
• Travelers with Laissez-Passer issued by the UN, World Bank, or IMF traveling to Kenya on official business

How do I obtain or apply for a Kenya visa?

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. You will get your eVisa by email.

There are six different types of Kenyan visas you may apply for:

• 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. Travelers who go to Kenya on business must also have a letter of invitation from a company.
• Multiple-entry visa: This visa allows frequent entry to Kenya for business, tourism, medical, or other reasons. It takes 10 working days to process and is valid for 6–12 months.
• 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. If your passport expires before the 5-year term of your Kenyan visa, you will need to reapply.
• Transit visa: This visa applies to travelers connecting through Kenya to other destinations for a period not exceeding 72 hours. Travelers with connecting flights who won’t leave the airport don’t need to apply for transit visas.
• Courtesy visa: A courtesy visa is issued to diplomatic, official, and service passport holders traveling to Kenya on official duties or transiting through Kenya to a third country for official business.
• 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. The East Africa Visa Sticker is then issued at the point of entry 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. Those applying for the five-year multiple-entry visa are advised to apply sooner.

How much is a Kenya visa for US citizens?

The price of a Kenyan visa for US citizens varies depending on the type of visa, and whether a visa is single-entry or multiple entry. The government of Kenya recently proposed raising fees for visas, so please check with the Kenyan government’s official website for current pricing data.

How long is my Kenya visa valid?

A single-entry Kenyan visa is valid for 90 days from the issue date.

What happens if I overstay my visa in Kenya?

Overstaying your visa in Kenya can result in penalties, including fines and possible deportation. It's essential to adhere to the conditions of your visa to avoid these complications.

How do I obtain an entry and exit form?

No separate entry or exit form is required for travel to Kenya as of the current regulations. Your passport and visa will serve as your primary travel documents.

Kenya health requirements and screenings

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. Travelers should be up-to-date on their polio vaccines.

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. COVID-19 remains a risk in Kenya, and travelers are advised to take appropriate precautions.

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. Kenya’s Ministry of Health has approved select locations for COVID-19 self-isolation.

Vaccinations

Before traveling to Kenya, ensure you have proof of yellow fever immunization. Travelers are advised to be up-to-date with all vaccinations the US CDC recommends.

Prescriptions

Always carry your prescription medication in its original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Ensure the medication is legal to bring into Kenya.

Medical Records

Carrying your medical records is advisable, especially if you have a preexisting health condition.

Travelers should ensure they have adequate travel and medical insurance coverage to cover overseas medical costs, and medical evacuation should that be required.

FAQs on Kenya travel requirements

Here are answers to common questions about traveling to Kenya.

Do I need to wear a mask in Kenya?

Masks are required in closed spaces and private facilities, such as public transportation, transport hubs, government buildings, offices and shopping markets. While mask-wearing is voluntary in public and open spaces, travelers may be advised to wear them, particularly in crowded places.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Kenya?

Yes. Kenya’s restaurants and bars are open for business, with regular operating hours restored.

Will my phone work in Kenya?

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. Cell coverage is spotty to nonexistent in the north.

If your US phone is unlocked and supports the GSM network, then you can use your mobile phone in Kenya. Check with your mobile phone provider if you are unsure whether your phone fits these requirements.

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. Another alternative is to buy a local phone to use while you travel in Kenya, as mobile phones are relatively inexpensive.

What kind of plugs do I need in Kenya?

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. The standard voltage is 240V, and the frequency is 50Hz, so you may need a power converter for devices that do not support dual voltage.

What should I wear in Kenya?

Wear comfortable, light clothing. Loose-fitting clothes that cover you are best to avoid mosquito bites. You should also wear mosquito repellent. For wildlife safaris, opt for neutral colors.

Can I smoke cigarettes or drink alcohol in Kenya?

Yes, but only in designated smoking areas and licensed establishments. Travelers are advised to adhere to local laws and respect the rules established by local authorities.

Is it safe for LGBTQ+ travelers in Kenya?

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. Members of the LGBTQ+ community face widespread societal discrimination.

Online resources for travelers to Kenya

• US Department of State: International Travel to Kenya
• US CDC Traveler’s Health: Kenya
• enya Embassy in the US: Visa Guidance
• Kenya Ministry of Health: COVID-19

Always travel well-informed with A Briggs

With abundant natural beauty in Kenya's national parks and an opportunity to see wildlife in its natural environment, Kenya offers a captivating travel experience. Whether you’re traveling for business or a much-anticipated vacation, it's important to be prepared—and knowing the entry requirements, you’re ready for a hassle-free journey.

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. And since travel policies change with little or no warning, you should always check the latest information before you head out.

An experienced visa specialist can help you navigate the complexities of border crossing requirements. Contact A Briggs for a quote today.