Do I need a visa to go to Kenya from the United States?

All visitors are required to obtain an e-visa before departing for Kenya. If you require a multiple-entry visa, be sure to apply well in advance of travel. Required for Entry: Passport with at least two blank pages, six months' validity, and a Kenyan e-visa.



As of early 2026, U.S. citizens do not need a traditional "visa" to enter Kenya, but they must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before departure. Kenya officially transitioned to a "visa-free" system in 2024, replacing the old eVisa with this new digital screening process. You must apply for the eTA online at least three days before your trip; it requires a valid passport with 6 months of validity, a digital photo, and proof of your travel itinerary. The cost is approximately $30 to $35 USD. For those traveling frequently for business or tourism, a "Five-Year Multiple Entry" option is specifically available for U.S. nationals. Note that while the eTA streamlines entry, you must still present a printed copy upon arrival in Nairobi or Mombasa, and you may be denied boarding if you do not have the authorization confirmed before your flight.

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The US visa processing time depends on the type of visa that you are applying for. It takes from 3 to 5 weeks for a US visa application to get processed. After the processing, the applicant can get a positive reply on their application, and the consulate will deliver the document.

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If you want to visit the United States for tourism or business purposes, you must obtain a US B1/B2 Visa. This is the most requested, especially because it does not ask many things from you. To obtain this visa, even if you apply with iVisa, you need the following: A valid passport.

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The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Kenya: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.

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Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $544 for one-way flights and $865 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

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In case you are visa-exempt, you can travel to Kenya and stay there for a period of up to 90 days.

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You need a visa to travel to Kenya. Kenyan entry visas are only issued electronically, with passengers required to obtain their e-visas before arrival. You can apply for single entry and transit visas on the e-visas website.

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Tourist Application Requirements for a Kenya Visa
  1. Hold a passport valid at least six months on entry with one blank visa page.
  2. Hold proof of sufficient funds.
  3. Hold proof of onward/return flights.
  4. Hold proof of hotel reservation.
  5. Hold all documents required for the next destination.


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Exercise increased caution in Kenya due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

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Visas are obligatory If you wish to live in Kenya for three or more months, you will need a visa. You should apply to the Kenyan High Commission or embassy in your own country to request a visa.

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Can I travel to Kenya from the United States? Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kenya.

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Kenya no longer issues visas on arrival. Previously, American nationals were eligible to apply for a visa on arrival in Kenya. However, this visa option was eliminated in favor of the eVisa option. An online visa application to enter Kenya is much faster, straightforward, and more convenient for US citizens.

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