To enter Kenya, most international travelers will need to obtain a visa for entry. While at this time it is still possible to obtain one on arrival, it is recommended to use the eVisa system to apply for one online to avoid any delays – plus I’ve seen some mentions that Kenya may soon switch entirely to online registrations.
First you’ll need to create an account. Click on the Create Account button on the homepage, and scroll down to eVisa Visitors.
When creating an account, be sure to have your passport number in hand and an email address and password in mind for your login credentials.
Once you’ve logged in, look under the Popular Services under Immigration Services for a link to the Single Entry Visa application.
The requirements for the visa are listed on this page, noting that you’ll need a valid passport with six months of validity upon arrival, a complete application form, blank pages, and a return ticket. The fees add up to $51. Of note is that children aged 16 or less do not need to apply for a visa, and only need to provide a valid passport on arrival.
The first part of the application needs some of your vital information, such as your name, gender, date of birth, place of birth, country of birth, current occupation, and the names of parents and spouse. Any information you provide should match anything present in your passport.
The second page needs your nationality, residence, and contact information.
The third page needs your passport/travel document issuance information. One of the fields requires the “place of issue” and “issued by.” In my passport under Authority, “United States, Department of State” is listed. “United States” and “U.S. Department of State” should be the appropriate responses.
The fourth page requires your travel information, including reason, entry and departure dates, and information about locations of arranged lodging and places to be visited.
The fifth page needs information on your travel history, including 3 months of recent travel and past travel to Kenya.
The sixth page is where you’ll need to upload supporting documents. This includes a scan or photo of your passport’s bio data page, various additional documents split by business/family/tourist visits, and a passport size photo. The photo of your passport must be of the original, entire bio page and in color. As a tourist, the additional documents needed can include your travel itinerary of places to be visited and hotel bookings. The passport size photo must be 500×500 pixels, meet similar requirements as passport photos with regard to appearance, but also must have been taken in the past 6 months and cannot be the same photograph that is in your passport.
Finally, you can submit your information and pay using a credit or debit card. You will then have to wait for notification of approval via email (should take at least two business days), then you can download and print the eVisa from your account page. Then all you’ll need to do is present it to the immigration officer at the port of entry, along with your passport and other required documents for entry.
References:
U.S. Department of State: International Travel Information for Kenya