Each nation has its own unique entry and exit requirements, and Kenya is no different. Bringing the right documentation not only protects you while traveling abroad, it also helps protect the people of the country you’re visiting.

Kenya Travel Requirements: Know Before You Go

From documents to vaccinations, here’s everything you’ll need to bring with you for international arrivals to Kenya.

Kenya Required Documents

  • Passport: For travel to Kenya, you’ll need a valid passport that has at least two blank pages. It should also be valid for at least six months beyond your date of travel.
  • Valid Visa: With a few exceptions, all foreign nationals are required to have a valid travel visa to enter Kenya, whether it’s a Tourist Visa, e-Visa, or Business Visa. You can typically get a visa within three business days. In some cases, you can apply for a visa online or through the Kenyan embassy. Curious about how to visit Kenya without a visa? We’ve got you covered.
  • Entry and Exit Forms: All passengers arriving in Kenya by air or sea are required to fill out entry and exit forms.

Kenya’s entry requirements may vary by country. Confirm if there’s anything else you need by contacting Entriva or your country’s Kenya embassy.

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How Do I Obtain a Passport?

If you do not already have a passport, you can apply for one at your local passport office. The process typically takes four to six weeks, so make sure to apply well in advance of your trip. If you already have a passport, make sure to check its expiration date and renew it if necessary.

To get a United States passport, an American citizen needs to follow these steps:

  1. Fill out form DS-11: The DS-11 form is available online or can be obtained at a passport acceptance facility.
  2. Gather required documents: You will need to provide proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate) and a government-issued ID (such as a driver’s license).
  3. Get a passport photo taken: Your photo must meet specific requirements, such as size, lighting, and positioning.
  4. Pay the application fee: The fee varies depending on the type of passport and processing time selected. The average processing time for a new passport is four to six weeks, but expedited services are available for an additional cost.
  5. Submit your application in person: You can submit your application at a passport acceptance facility, which can be found at many post offices, courthouses, and libraries.
  6. Track your application status: You can check the status of your passport application online or by phone.
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How Do I Obtain A Kenya Visa?

You can obtain a visa by applying online. The application process typically takes between two and eight days, depending on the type of visa you are applying for. Make sure to apply well in advance of your trip to allow for processing time.

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How Do I Obtain An Entry and Exit Form?

The entry and exit form can be obtained on the plane or at the airport upon arrival in Kenya. Make sure to fill it out completely and accurately, as it will be checked by immigration officials.

Kenya Health Requirements and Screenings

To keep yourself and the rest of the country healthy and safe, monitor local media ahead of your trip for any health-related issues, keep an eye on any Kenya travel restrictions that may be developing, pay attention to your health post-arrival, and perhaps most importantly, be aware of—and follow—Kenya’s health requirements for entry.

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COVID-19

Currently, there are no COVID-related entry requirements. That means travelers do not need to show a vaccination certificate, take a rapid antigen test or pre-departure PCR test, or produce a negative PCR test result.

Travelers arriving with flu-like symptoms will have to fill out the passenger locator form and take a COVID-19 antigen test at their own cost. If the test is positive, a further COVID-19 PCR test will be required, also at their own cost, followed by self-isolation.

As the COVID-19 pandemic remains a global health issue, restrictions are subject to change. Be sure to check for updates via the Kenyan government’s Ministry of Health or your nearest Kenya embassy.

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Vaccinations

Proof of yellow fever immunization is required to enter Kenya.

Due to circulating poliovirus, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) strongly recommends travelers to Kenya be up-to-date on their polio vaccines, as well as other routine vaccines, such as chickenpox, flu, and measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR).

The following vaccinations are recommended, but not required:

  • Malaria: Antimalarial drugs recommended
  • COVID-19: Recommended
  • Cholera: Recommended if traveling to areas of active cholera transmission
  • Hepatitis A: Recommended for unvaccinated travelers older than one year and infants ages 6 to 11 months
  • Hepatitis B: Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60
  • Japanese encephalitis: Recommended if coming from infected area
  • Meningitis: Recommended for travelers 2 months old or older traveling to certain areas
  • Typhoid: Recommended for most travelers
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Prescriptions

If you need to bring prescription medication with you during your trip, you should:

  • Check with the Pharmacy and Poisons Board of Kenya or a Kenyan embassy or consulate to ensure that the drug is legal to bring into the country and you don’t violate local laws.
  • Carry the medications in their original packing
  • Bring a copy of the prescription or a letter from your doctor
  • Declare your medications at customs to the local authorities
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Medical Records

If you’re traveling for medical treatment on a Single-Entry or Multiple-Entry Visa, you’ll need to provide a copy of a letter from your healthcare provider explaining the medical procedure, as well as any other relevant health records. Note that plastic bags are banned in Kenya.

Preparing for Your Kenya Trip

Obtaining a visa is an essential part of planning your trip. At Entriva, we can easily and efficiently help with every aspect of getting a Kenya visa. Start your visa application process.

Do you have further questions about travel to Kenya, like how to get a visa or what parts of the country are safe to visit? Check out our Kenya content hub for information and guidance on travel restrictions, cultural customs, and more.