Entry/Exit Requirements

A passport and visa are required for entry into Kenya. While single-entry visas are currently still available upon arrival at Kenyan airports, Kenya Immigration plans to end visas upon arrival at some point in the future.  Therefore, all travelers are strongly encouraged to apply online through the e-visa process. Immigration has instituted a new visa policy whereby all visitors must obtain visas by using  a new online system.  

For more information regarding the Kenyan e-visa program, please contact Kenya Immigration in Nairobi or the Kenyan embassy in Washington, D.C.  Contact information can be found at Embassy of Kenya. The fees are $50 for a single-entry visa and $100 for a multiple-entry visa for each traveler, regardless of age and whether obtained in advance or at the airport.

Evidence of yellow fever immunization may be requested, and some travelers have been turned around at immigration for not having sufficient proof of immunization. Travelers to Kenya and neighboring African countries should ensure that the validity of their passports is at least six months beyond the end of their intended stay. Kenyan immigration authorities require a minimum of two blank (unstamped) visa pages in the passport to enter the country; some travelers have experienced difficulties when they arrive without the requisite blank pages. Travelers should make sure there are sufficient pages for visas and immigration stamps to enter into Kenya and other countries to be visited en route to Kenya or elsewhere in the region.

Travelers may obtain the latest information on visas as well as any additional details regarding entry requirements from the Embassy of Kenya, 2249 R Street, NW, Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone (202) 387-6101, or the Kenyan Consulates General in Los Angeles and New York City. Persons outside the United States should contact the nearest Kenyan embassy or consulate.

U.S. citizens should also be aware that the Government of Kenya recently tightened its visa requirements for foreign nationals who wish to work in Kenya. The Government of Kenya’s past practice of allowing foreign nationals to work in Kenya under a tourist visa is no longer being allowed under these new regulations. U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to obtain the latest guidance from the Government of Kenya regarding requirements for work permits or residency permits and to follow the new regulations closely.  

HIV/AIDS Restrictions: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Kenya.

Information about dual nationality or the prevention of international child abduction can be found on our website. For further information about customs regulations, please read our Customs Information page.