You’ll need a business visa if you’re coming to Kenya to facilitate activities related to business—for example, to attend business meetings or conferences or conduct negotiations. Keep in mind though, a business visa holder cannot work or seek employment.
A valid visa is needed to enter Kenya for business purposes, whether it’s for single or multiple entry. Here are the steps needed to complete a visa application form, what materials and documents you need before applying, the fees you’ll be expected to pay, and the wait time to get your business-related Kenyan visa.
- Kenya Business Visa Basics
- Kenya Business Visa Types
- What Are the Steps for Getting a Business Visa for Kenya?
- How to Apply for a Kenya Business Visa Online
- Kenya Business Visa Documents
- Kenya Business Visa Validity
- Kenya Business Visa Fees
- FAQs About Kenya Business Visas
- Other Kenya Visas
- Preparing for Your Kenya Trip
Kenya Business Visa Basics
Kenya Business Visa Types
Travelers on official business to Kenya can apply for either a Single-Entry Visa or a Multiple-Entry Visa.
Single-Entry Visa
Along with tourism and medical purposes, you can get a Single-Entry Visa for business purposes. They are valid for up to three months from the date of issue.
Multiple-Entry Visa
Along with tourism and medical purposes, a Multiple-Entry Visa allows business travelers to leave and reenter Kenya for six to 12 months from date of issue.
What Are the Steps for Getting a Business Visa for Kenya?
Step 1: Collect the Required Documents
An assortment of valid travel documents are required to get a business visa, including a passport with at least six months of validity, a 2” x 2” passport photo, and a completed visa application form. You may also need to submit a letter of invitation from a business or organization in Kenya, a letter from your employer or business detailing the purpose of your visit on company letterhead, and details of your flight itinerary and hotel accommodations.
Step 2: Submit the Visa Application
Once you have assembled all the required documents, submit your application. Entriva can assist with this step to make certain that all of your visa requirements are completed properly.
Step 3: Pay the Visa Fee
Any visa fees—mandated government fees as well as Entriva’s handling fees—can be paid via multiple methods, including credit or debit card.
Step 4: Await Processing
After submitting your application, you will need to wait a period of time for your visa to be processed by immigration services. The processing time can vary and can be two weeks, or longer for a paper visaso it’s best to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
How to Apply for a Kenya Business Visa Online
Whether you’re looking for a regular visa or an electronic visa, Entriva is here to make the process fast and simple. Here’s all the information you’ll need to provide for us to complete your visa application form:
- Personal information (full name on passport, nationality, address, date of birth, email, phone number, gender, etc.)
- Passport information (number, expiration date, place of issue, date of issue, etc.)
- Type of visa (regular or e-Visa)
- Location of closest Kenya embassy or consulate
- Travel dates
- Port of arrival and expected port of departure
- Information on any current or previous e-Visas or visas for Kenya travel
- Emergency Contact/Family details (names, addresses, email, phone, nationality, etc.)
- One photo and copy of passport page (see Required Documents below for more information)
- Copy of business card, company registration certificate and/or invitation letter from Kenya company
- Payment information for processing fees
You can check the status of your visa on your personal Traveler Hub.
Kenya Business Visa Documents
The following are the necessary documents you’ll need to apply for a business visa to Kenya. All supporting documents required should be in PDF format.
- A valid passport with two blank pages, valid at least six months beyond the visa application date
- A scanned copy of your passport’s bio page, clearly showing your personal details and photo
- One digital photo in JPG format (minimum size, 10 KB; maximum size 1 MB). These photos should be equal height and width, with no borders.
- A scanned copy of your business card
- Invitation or support letters from a Kenya company(s)
Kenya Business Visa Validity
- Single-Entry Visa: Valid for travel within three months from the date of issue.
- Multiple-Entry Visa: Valid for six to 12 months from the date of issue.
Kenya Business Visa Fees
Visa fees vary by country from US$10 to $100, plus a $1 service charge. Some additional processing fees and bank-transaction fees may apply.
- Single-Entry Visa: total government fee, $51
- Multiple-Entry Visa: total government fee, $101
Booking a visa with Entriva ensures you get the right visa in time, every time. In addition to mandatory government fees, Entriva charges among the industry’s lowest handling fees, starting at just $50.
Start your visa application now to receive a quote.
FAQs About Kenya Business Visas
Here are some commonly asked questions about Kenya Business Visas:
How long does it take to get a Business Visa?
E-Visas typically take about three business days (or longer for a few referred nationals) to be processed.
Can I renew or extend my Business Visa?
Yes, you can extend your business visa by applying to extend it before its expiration date.
Can I apply for a Business Visa upon arrival in Kenya?
No, the visa on arrival for Kenya was discontinued at the end of 2020. As of January 1, 2021, business-related visas are only available online.
Can I engage in work or employment on a Business Visa?
No, you’d need a work permit. A business visa only covers certain purposes, such as attending a meeting or conference.
How long can I stay in Kenya on a Business Visa?
The duration of stay allowed on a business visa depends on the visa type and validity specified. Single-Entry and Multiple-Entry Visas are common. If you require a longer stay or multiple entries, you may consider getting a Multiple-Entry Visa.
Is the Kenya Business Visa a multiple-entry visa?
Yes, if you apply for the Multiple-Entry Visa, you will be able to enter Kenya multiple times during your visa’s validity.
Can I convert a tourist visa to a Business Visa while in Kenya?
If you’re already in Kenya on an e-Visa and wish to engage in business activities, you would typically need to apply for a change of visa status.
How far in advance should I get my Kenya Business Visa?
You should apply online at least a week ahead of your date of arrival. Visa regulations and processes can change, so it’s always best to check the most recent information on the official Kenyan e-Visa website or by contacting a Kenyan embassy or consulate.
Is a Business Visa the same as an employment visa?
No, a business visa does not permit you to work or seek employment.
Where do I keep my Business Visa while traveling?
Keep a print copy of your business visa and your passport in a safe place. International travel document holders will help keep all your essential documents in one place.
Other Kenya Visas
If your purpose for visiting Kenya isn’t to conduct business, there are other visa categories available. We can help with those, too.
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.
For more information on other aspects of travel to Kenya, such as local laws, entry requirements, health and safety, and cultural customs, visit our Kenya content hub.