Skip to main content

Kenya Visa for United Kingdom Citizens 2026

e-Visa / eTA

UK citizens need an eVisa to Kenya for tourism; apply online at https://www.ecitizen.go.ke/; typical total fees for a Tourist eVisa are around USD 72 (USD 51 visa + USD 21 service), with processing of 2–3 working days.

Guide last updated September 5, 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 and have at least one blank page.
  • Specific forms: apply online via https://www.ecitizen.go.ke/; there is no DS-160/VAF1A for Kenya; no embassy paper form required for the eVisa.
  • Financial proof: no fixed financial proof is required to obtain the eVisa; you should have access to funds to cover your stay.
  • Accommodation and return ticket: accommodation details are not mandatory in the online application, but carry hotel bookings and a return/onward ticket as supporting evidence if asked by immigration.
  • Photo spec: upload a recent passport-style photo with white background; head and shoulders visible; size roughly 35x45 mm; JPEG/JPG; resolution 300 dpi; max file size typically 1 MB.
  • Biometrics: Biometrics are not required as a separate submission for the eVisa application; immigration at entry may verify identity as usual.
  • Travel health insurance: not mandatory for the eVisa, but recommended to have comprehensive travel medical insurance.

Visa types

  • Tourist eVisa (Single Entry) — Official name: Tourist eVisa (Single Entry); Validity: up to 90 days from issue; Max stay: up to 90 days per visit; Entry: Single; Fee: USD 51 visa + USD 21 service = around USD 72; approx in KES: around 10,800 KES.
  • Business eVisa (Single Entry) — Official name: Business eVisa (Single Entry); Validity: up to 90 days from issue; Max stay: up to 90 days per visit; Entry: Single; Fee: USD 101 visa + USD 21 service = around USD 122; approx in KES: around 18,300 KES.
  • Transit eVisa (Single Entry) — Official name: Transit eVisa (Single Entry); Validity: up to 3 days from issue; Max stay: up to 3 days; Entry: Single; Fee: USD 21 visa + USD 21 service = around USD 42; approx in KES: around 6,300 KES.
  • Student eVisa / Work eVisa — Not available via the Kenya eVisa portal; study/work permits are issued by Kenyan authorities and typically require applications through the Kenyan embassy/consulate or relevant ministries. For UK citizens intending study or work in Kenya, contact the Kenyan mission (https://www.mfa.go.ke/) for guidance.

How to apply online (Application process)

  • How to apply online: go to https://www.ecitizen.go.ke/; create an account or sign in; select the eVisa service; complete the online form with personal details, passport information and travel details.
  • Documents to upload: scanned passport bio-data page; digital passport photo meeting the photo specs; travel itinerary or hotel bookings; any additional documents requested (e.g., invitation letter for business).
  • Payment: pay the visa fee (USD) and the eVisa processing/service fee with a credit/debit card; ensure you receive a payment receipt.
  • Submission: submit the online form; you will receive an application reference number by email.
  • Processing time: typical processing is 2–3 working days; expedited processing may be available for an additional fee on the ecitizen platform.
  • Approval: the eVisa is issued electronically and sent by email; print a copy of the eVisa and carry it with you to present on arrival at Kenyan ports of entry.
  • Biometrics: no separate biometrics submission is required for the eVisa; arrival checks will be at the border as usual.

Fees & processing time

  • Tourist eVisa (Single Entry): Visa fee USD 51 + service/processing USD 21 = total around USD 72; Local currency estimate (KES): about 10,800 KES; Standard processing 2–3 working days; Express/priority processing may be available for an extra fee.
  • Business eVisa (Single Entry): Visa fee USD 101 + service USD 21 = total around USD 122; Local currency estimate (KES): about 18,300 KES; Standard processing 2–3 working days; Express options may apply.
  • Transit eVisa (Single Entry): Visa fee USD 21 + service USD 21 = total around USD 42; Local currency estimate (KES): about 6,300 KES; Standard processing 2–3 working days; Express options may apply.
  • VFS/BLS service fee: Not applicable for eVisa applications submitted online via ecitizen; no separate VFS/BLS fee.
  • Total cost estimate: Tourist around USD 72, Business around USD 122, Transit around USD 42; always check ecitizen.go.ke for the exact amount at the time of application.
  • Standard processing time: 2–3 working days; express/priority processing may be available for an extra fee.

Tips for United Kingdom travelers

  • How far in advance to apply: apply at least 7–14 days before travel; allow extra time during peak travel periods.
  • Common rejection reasons for UK applicants specifically: passport validity less than 6 months, passport name mismatch with application, incomplete or blurry documents or photo, insufficient funds as evidence (if requested), travel itinerary inconsistent with stated purpose, or failure to upload required documents.
  • VFS/BLS vs direct embassy application: for Kenya eVisa you apply directly online via ecitizen.go.ke; there is no separate VFS/BLS process for eVisas; if you need a non-eVisa entry (e.g., study/work), contact the Kenyan embassy/mission.
  • Travel advisories or bilateral notes: check UK government travel advisories for Kenya and any current health/safety requirements; stay updated on entry rules that may change.
  • Extension options inside Kenya: eVisas generally cannot be extended online; if you require a longer stay, you must apply for an extension with the Kenyan Department of Immigration Services before your current visa expires, or exit and re-enter if allowed under Kenyan law. Always verify current rules at the time of travel.

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

More visa guides for United Kingdom passport holders

FranceGermanyItalySpainUnited StatesAustraliaView all →

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.