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Kenya Visa for China Citizens 2026

e-Visa / eTA

Chinese citizens traveling to Kenya must obtain an eVisa (electronic visa) before travel via ecitizen.go.ke; eVisa is typically single-entry for tourism or business, with a 90-day validity and up to 90 days stay; fee from USD 51; processing usually 2-3 working days.

Guide last updated September 4, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport validity: passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Kenya, with at least one blank page.
  • Specific forms: for eVisa, apply online at https://www.ecitizen.go.ke/; no DS-160 or VAF forms; no embassy appointment required for tourist/business eVisa. For sticker visas (Student/Work) handled at Kenyan Embassy/Consulate, see official site.
  • Financial proof: there is no fixed amount; you may be asked to show funds if requested; recommended to have at least a few thousand USD equivalent for the stay or access to funds via cards.
  • Accommodation and return ticket requirements: have hotel or host details for the stay and a return/onward ticket or travel itinerary.
  • Photo spec: upload a passport-style photo (2x2 inches or 51x51 mm) with a plain white background; max file size per the portal guidelines.
  • Biometrics: Biometrics are not submitted separately for the eVisa application; immigration may collect biometrics on arrival if required.
  • Travel health insurance: not mandatory but strongly recommended; ensure routine vaccines are up to date and any required vaccines are completed before travel.

Visa types

  • Tourist visa (Kenya eVisa Tourist): official name Kenya eVisa Tourist; validity 90 days from issue; max stay per visit 90 days; single-entry; approximate fee USD 51.
  • Business visa (Kenya eVisa Business): official name Kenya eVisa Business; validity 90 days from issue; max stay per visit 90 days; single-entry; approximate fee USD 51.
  • Student visa: official name Kenya Study Visa; availability via eVisa: not available; requires embassy/consulate processing; typical validity and stay determined by Department of Immigration; fee varies; process may take weeks to months.
  • Work visa: official name Kenya Work Visa; availability via eVisa: not available; requires embassy/consulate processing; typical validity and stay determined by Department of Immigration; fee varies.

Application process

  • How to apply online (eVisa): portal URL https://www.ecitizen.go.ke/; steps: create account or sign in, complete application with personal data, upload required documents (passport bio-data page scan, photo, travel itinerary or invitation letter for business), pay visa fee (USD 51) via supported payment methods, submit; you will receive the eVisa by email as a PDF; print the eVisa and carry it to Kenya.
  • How to apply for sticker visas (Study/Work): contact the Kenyan Embassy/Consulate in your jurisdiction; prepare documents: passport, visa application form (where required), invitation/employer letter, academic documents, police clearance if required, pay visa fee at the embassy; processing times typically several weeks; interview may be required.
  • Visa-free (not applicable): Chinese citizens do not have visa-free entry for Kenya; ensure you apply before travel.

Fees & processing time

  • eVisa government fee: USD 51 for Tourist and Business; currency is USD; processing time: typically 2-3 working days; up to 7 days in peak periods.
  • VFS/BLS service fees: not applicable for online eVisa; for sticker visas processed via embassy, service charges may apply per the host Kenyan mission; check the mission's payment method.
  • Total cost estimate: around USD 51 (plus possible embassy visa fees if applying for non-eVisa types).
  • Express/priority option: available for eVisa in some cases through the ECitizen portal; additional fee applies; check portal for current options.

Tips for China travelers

  • Apply at least 7-14 days before your planned travel date to account for processing.
  • Common rejection reasons for China applicants: incomplete or inconsistent information; passport data mismatch; insufficient funds; invalid or unclear travel purpose; poor-quality or non-compliant photo; passport expiry less than 6 months from entry.
  • VFS/BLS vs direct embassy: for eVisa use ecitizen online portal; for Student/Work or if eVisa option not available, use Kenyan Embassy/Consulate; expect longer processing times.
  • Travel advisories: check current Kenya travel advisories from your government; ensure yellow fever vaccination and other health requirements if demanded by Kenya.
  • Extension options inside Kenya: visa extensions may be possible by applying at the Department of Immigration Services; typically extensions are granted for up to 90 days, subject to approval; you should apply before your current visa expires.

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

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This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.