Sometimes a traveler to Kenya might need to stay longer than their visa permits, which means they’ll have to go through the process of extending their visa. A visitor may be eligible to apply for a visa extension if they have a valid reason for extending their stay, such as tourism, business, or educational purposes.

Whatever the reason for extending your stay in Kenya, you’ll need to extend your visa as well. Here are all the requirements visa applicants need to know.

Kenya Visa Types for US Citizens

There are multiple types of visas for foreign nationals looking to enter Kenya. Some of the visas available to US citizens are extendable, others are not:

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  • Single-Entry: Renewable
  • Multiple-Entry: Renewable
  • e-Transit Visa: Not designed for renewal

Important Information About Kenya Visa Extensions

You can apply for a visa extension in person at an immigration office; there is no online application.

It’s recommended to start the extension process well before your current visa expires to allow for processing time. This is to avoid any potential delays.

Fees associated with your visa extension have to be paid at the time of the application.

How to Extend Your Kenya Visa

For all the visas listed above that can be extended or renewed, eligible foreign nationals will follow the same process. It’s recommended that you apply to renew or extend your visa at least one to two months prior to expiration day. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get a Kenya visa extension.

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1. Have Your Documentation on Hand

Make sure you have all of your required paperwork and accompanying materials with you, as any incomplete or missing sections may cause delays or rejections.

2. Apply in Person

To apply for a visa extension as a foreign national, you will need to visit the immigration department in Nairobi or the appropriate regional immigration office in Kenya.

3. Pay Your Fee in Person

Obtain and keep receipts.

Documents Needed for Kenya Visa Extension

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  • Copy of your passport
  • Copy of your current Kenya visa
  • Two passport-size (3.5 x 3.5 cm or 3.5 x 4.5 cm; max size 1 MB) passport photos in JPG format
  • A completed application form
  • Payment for processing fee and/or other costs

Medical/medical attendant visas

Medical visa holders should apply under the Single-Entry Visa or Multiple-Entry Visa process, but specify the valid reason for your medical-related stay in your application. You typically need to have a legitimate reason for extending your stay in Kenya for medical treatment or to attend to someone receiving medical treatment.

Along with your other paperwork, you need to provide a letter explaining the reason for the renewal and providing details about the medical treatment being received or attended to. You also need to provide relevant medical documents, such as a medical report or recommendation from a qualified medical practitioner.

Business Visa

Business Visa holders should reapply under the Single-Entry Visa or Multiple-Entry Visa process, but specify a business reason in your application. You typically need to hold a valid business visa and have a legitimate reason for extending your stay in Kenya for business-related activities.

Generally, along with your application form and other items, you will need to provide a letter explaining the reason for the visa extension and providing details about your business activities in Kenya. You will need to include items such as a supporting letter from your employer or sponsoring company in Kenya.

Kenya Visa Extension Costs

Costs for extending your Kenya visa vary depending on the type of visa and your country of origin and may be subject to change, so confirm the current fee at the time of your application. For example, the government-mandated fee to extend a Single-Entry Tourist Visa for an additional 90 days is approximately US$50.

Booking a visa with Entriva ensures you get the right visa in time, every time. In addition to mandatory government fees, Entriva charges amongst the industry’s lowest handling fees, starting at just $50.

Penalties for Overstaying Your Kenya Visa

If you’re unable to extend your visa and overstay your visa duration, the government of Kenya imposes fines in Kenyan shillings. These fines are typically calculated on a daily basis, and the amount increases the longer you exceed your authorized stay.

For overstays of up to 90 days, the fine is approximately KSh2,000 per day. The amount can be subject to change, so it’s important to verify the current amount at the time of your overstay. If you overstay beyond 90 days, the fine can increase significantly

Kenya Visa Extension FAQs

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Can I leave Kenya while my visa extension is being processed?

It’s generally advised to remain in Kenya while your visa extension is being processed. Leaving the country at this time might complicate the process and could make it difficult to re-enter Kenya. It’s recommended to speak with immigration authorities on this matter.

What is the fee for a visa renewal?

The amount will depend on your visa type and the duration of the extension you require. Inquire about the applicable fees at the immigration office or consulate and make the necessary payment during the renewal process.

Prepare for Your Kenya Trip

Don’t be caught off guard by unexpected requirements before your trip. At Entriva, we can easily and efficiently help you with every aspect of getting a Kenyan visa. Start your visa application process.

For more information on other aspects of travel to Kenya, including what parts of the country are safe to visit and details on local culture and customs, visit our Kenya content hub.