Visa Requirements for Kenyan Citizens (2026)

Kenya replaced its eVisa system with the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system in January 2024, available at etakenya.go.ke. All visitors now need an eTA ($30 USD) instead of a visa. For Kenyan citizens traveling abroad, the eTA is not relevant - instead, check whether your destination offers eVisas to Kenyan passport holders. Destinations like India and several Asian countries offer eVisas to Kenyans. As of May 2025, most African nationals (except those from Somalia and Libya) are exempt from the Kenya eTA requirement.

Kenyan passport holders can travel visa-free to all East African Community (EAC) member states, including Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. You generally only need a valid Kenyan passport or national ID for travel within the EAC. The EAC single tourist visa also allows combined travel to Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda on one visa for foreign visitors.

Apply online through the gov.uk website, then book a biometrics appointment at VFS Global in Nairobi (Westlands). You will need a valid passport, financial documents showing consistent income (typically 3-6 months of bank statements in KES), proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, and evidence of ties to Kenya such as employment or property. Processing officially takes up to 3 weeks - allow longer during peak periods.

Kenyan passport holders generally need a pre-arranged visa or eVisa to enter the UAE, so plan ahead if you want an extended layover in Dubai. Since 25 June 2026, Kenyans holding a valid residence permit from the US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, or South Korea can instead get a visa on arrival. For airside transit (not leaving the airport), a transit visa may not be required depending on your airline and routing. For Qatar, Kenyans flying Qatar Airways on both legs can apply in advance for a free 96-hour transit visa through the airline or the Hayya portal. Always check transit visa requirements with your airline before booking.

Kenyan passport holders can access several destinations through eVisas, including the UAE, India, and Thailand (apply in advance - Kenyans are not eligible for Thai visa on arrival). Turkey eVisas are only available to Kenyans who hold a valid Schengen, US, UK, or Ireland visa or residence permit and travel with approved airlines. Ethiopia is visa-free for Kenyans under a long-standing bilateral agreement, and Singapore allows visa-free visits of up to 30 days. Many African countries also offer Kenyans visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry through bilateral agreements or African Union protocols.

There is no official minimum amount, but you should generally demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your entire stay. For a 2-week trip, showing consistent balances of KES 500,000-1,000,000 with regular salary or business income deposits is typically advisable. Provide 3-6 months of bank statements from a recognized Kenyan bank and avoid large, unexplained deposits close to your application date.