Indian citizens cannot apply for a visa on arrival when visiting Kenya. Instead, they are required to apply for an eVisa before their trip.
Indian citizens who wish to visit Kenya must meet specific eligibility criteria for the eVisa.
The Kenya eVisa is more advantageous than a visa on arrival as it streamlines the travel process, allowing Indian citizens to obtain their travel authorization online in advance, thus minimizing the risk of delays and uncertainty at the entry point.
The eVisa is suitable for various purposes such as tourism, business, and medical reasons. Indian passport holders must have at least six months of validity on their passports from entry into Kenya.
NOTE: Ensuring your passport meets this validity requirement is crucial to avoid potential issues at immigration.
eVisa Requirements
To apply for a Kenya eVisa instead of an on-arrival visa, Indian citizens need to prepare the following documents:
- Passport photo
- Copy of the travel passport bio-data page
- Copy of the passport front cover
- Hotel reservations
- Travel itinerary
- Return flight ticket
NOTE: These documents must be of good quality to ensure a smooth application process.
Types of Kenya eVisa
Kenya offers several types of eVisas for Indian citizens, thus eliminating the need for a visa on arrival:
- Single Entry Visa – Valid for three months and costs USD 51 (plus handling fee).
- Multiple Entry Visa – Suitable for frequent travelers.
- Transit Visa – This is for travelers passing through Kenya en route to another destination.
- Service Visa – For official government visits.
- Student Visa – This is for students attending school in Kenya.
NOTE: The Single Entry Visa can be extended for another 90 days, making it an ideal choice for tourists.
How to Apply for a Kenya eVisa
Apply for your Kenya eVisa online through the official application portal, which will allow you to bypass the need for a visa upon arrival at the airport.
- Visit the official eVisa application portal – Kenya eVisa Portal.
- Register an account on the portal.
- Fill out the application form with personal details and travel information.
- Upload the required documents as listed above.
- Pay the visa fee using MasterCard, VISA, American Express, Discover, debit cards, or wire transfers.
NOTE: The application process typically takes 3-5 working days, so plan accordingly.
Validity Period and Stay Duration
The Kenya eVisa is generally valid for up to 90 days from the issue date. The period of stay allowed on a tourist eVisa is also up to 90 days, with an option to extend for an additional 90 days.
NOTE: Ensure you apply for an extension at the Kenyan Immigration Department if you plan to stay longer.
FAQs about Kenya eVisa for Indian Citizens
Q1. Can Indian citizens apply for a Kenya visa on arrival?
A1. No, Indian citizens cannot apply for a visa on arrival and must obtain an eVisa before traveling.
Q2. How long does the eVisa processing take?
A2. The processing time is typically 3-5 working days.
Q3. How long can I stay in Kenya with an eVisa?
A3. You can stay for up to 90 days, with a possible extension for another 90 days.
Q4. What documents are required for the eVisa application?
A4. Required documents include a passport photo, a copy of the passport bio-data page, the passport front cover, hotel reservations, a travel itinerary, and a return flight ticket.
Q5. Can I pay the eVisa fee using a credit card?
A5. Yes, you can pay using MasterCard, VISA, American Express, Discover, debit cards, or wire transfers.
Conclusion
Applying for a Kenya eVisa as an Indian citizen is a straightforward process that requires some preparation. Ensuring you have all the necessary documents and meeting the eligibility criteria will make your application smoother. Following the steps outlined in this guide, you can secure your eVisa and enjoy your trip to Kenya without any hassles.
For further inquiries or detailed information, visit the Kenyan Immigration Department website.
