Kenya Visa for US Citizens
US citizens need a visa to visit Kenya. The e-Visa is the recommended option: it's fast, easy, and can be done entirely online. While visa on arrival is technically possible, the e-Visa saves time at immigration and is strongly preferred by Kenyan authorities. The process takes 2-5 business days, so apply at least a week before travel.
Visa At a Glance
- Visa Type
- Tourist Visa
- Best Option
- e-Visa
- Cost
- $51
- Processing
- 2-5 days
- Validity
- 90 days
- Entries
- Single
E-Visa Application
RecommendedCost
$51
Processing
2-5 business days
Stay Permitted
90 days
Entries
Single
How to Apply for E-Visa
Go to etakenya.go.ke and create account
Fill in application form
Upload passport photo (JPEG, 500x500px)
Upload passport bio page scan
Upload return/onward ticket
Upload hotel booking or invitation letter
Pay $51 via credit card
Wait 2-5 business days for approval
Print e-Visa approval to show at immigration
Requirements
E-Visa Documents
- Valid US passport (6+ months validity beyond entry)
- Passport-size photo (digital, white background)
- Scanned passport bio page
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking, safari itinerary, or invitation)
- Credit card for payment
Passport Requirements
- Validity: At least 6 months beyond entry date
- Blank Pages: At least 2 blank pages
- Condition: Good condition, no damage
East Africa Tourist Visa
Visiting multiple East African countries? The East Africa Tourist Visa might be a better option.
Cost
$100
Validity
90 days
Entries
Multiple
Countries
Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda
When to choose: If visiting 2+ of Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda on same trip
At Immigration
What to Present
- •Passport
- •Printed e-Visa approval
- •Return flight ticket
- •Accommodation details (may be asked)
Tips
- •Have documents easily accessible
- •Know your hotel/lodge name
- •Be polite and patient
Typical processing time: 10-20 minutes with e-Visa
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying too late (e-Visa can take up to 5 days)
- Using unofficial websites (scams exist)
- Passport validity less than 6 months
- Wrong photo specifications
- Not printing the e-Visa
Frequently Asked Questions
Do US citizens need a visa for Kenya?
Yes, US citizens need a visa. The e-Visa ($51, 2-5 days processing) is the recommended option.
Can US citizens get Kenya visa on arrival?
Yes, but it's not recommended. The e-Visa is faster and avoids immigration queues.
How long can US citizens stay in Kenya?
The tourist visa allows 90 days. This can be extended once for an additional 90 days.
How much is Kenya visa for US citizens?
$51 for single-entry tourist visa (e-Visa or on arrival). East Africa visa is $100.
How long does Kenya e-Visa take?
Usually 2-3 business days, but can take up to 5 days. Apply at least a week ahead.