tourist visa usa from kenya

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Visa Requirements to Visit the U.S. from Kenya

Do i need a visa to visit from kenya to the united states, what types of visas can i get from kenya to visit the united states, do i need an visa interview to visit from kenya to the united states, what are the required documents to visit fromkenya to the united states, what are the steps to apply for a visa to visit from kenya to the united states, are there special instructions to visit from kenya to the united states, what is the visa fee to visit from kenya to the united states, what is the processing time to get a visa to visit from kenya to the united states, what to do in case of a visa denial to visit from kenya to the united states, what are the frequently asked visa questions and answers to visit from kenya to the united states.

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How to apply for or renew a U.S. tourist visa

If you visit the U.S. for tourism or business, you may need a visitor visa, also known as a tourist visa. Learn how to get and renew this type of nonimmigrant visa.

To enter the U.S., you must bring a passport issued by your country of citizenship along with your visa. Officials at your port of entry into the U.S. will also issue you a Form I-94, which electronically records your arrival and departure dates. Learn more about Form I-94 and how to apply .

Find out if you need a visa to visit the U.S.

Check to see if your country participates in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) . If it does, you can get a waiver and will not need a visa. If you do not see your country listed, you will need a visitor visa.

Visitor (tourist) visa

The visitor visa, also known as a tourist visa, is a type of nonimmigrant visa for people who wish to temporarily enter the U.S. There are two categories:

• B-1 for business travel
• B-2 for tourism and medical treatment

Learn about B-1 and B-2 visas , including:

• Reasons you would need each type of visitor visa
• How to apply
• What documents you will need
• Application fees
• How to prepare for your interview at your U.S. embassy or consulate

How to renew a visitor visa

You must renew your visitor visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. Only diplomatic visa holders and their dependents can renew their visas within the U.S.

The process to renew a visitor visa is the same as getting one for the first time. Follow the process to apply for a visitor visa from the Department of State.

Find the contact information for your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and contact them for visa renewal information.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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Do you need a visa to visit Kenya?

Nov 29, 2023 • 4 min read

Everything you need to know about getting a visa for Kenya before the trip of a lifetime © PeopleImages.com - Yuri A / Shutterstock

Before you book that dream safari trip to the Masai Mara , start planning beach time in Mombasa or working out which of Nairobi ’s cool bars you want to enjoy a cold beer at, make sure you’ve got your visa to visit Kenya figured out. 

The good news is a tourist visa for Kenya is easy to obtain for many nationalities, and most are issued promptly after an online application. We've got everything you need to know about Kenya visa applications, including costs, the documents you need, and which countries require a visa.

Do I need a visa for Kenya?

Most nationalities (Category 2) need to  apply for an eVisa online before arriving in Kenya. Some nationalities are exempt and do not require a visa to enter, which is classified as Category 1, and a small number in Category 3 require referred visas, meaning a trip to the local Kenyan embassy before arrival.

The President of Kenya, William Ruto, recently announced a plan to end all visa requirements for visitors from other African countries by 2024. 

Who can visit Kenya visa-free?

Citizens of a small number of countries don’t need a visa to enter Kenya. Check the official comprehensive eligibility list , which includes some Caribbean and African nations and countries such as Cyprus, Fiji and Singapore. Travelers under 16 are often exempt but check directly for specific visa requirements for your nationality.

How do I apply for a tourist visa for Kenya?

Apply for a tourist visa through Kenya’s official eVisa website . Set up an account with a username and password, and keep it handy because you can log in to see your application status. You'll need to provide your travel itinerary, and you’ll have to upload a recent color photo taken in the last six months.

Give yourself enough time before you travel to complete the application because you might need to supply details of where you’re staying. Although the website says visas are issued within 48 hours, we recommend giving yourself a buffer in case of any delays. After submitting, some applicants might be asked to provide extra information about their stay or their hosts.

The visa service says you’ll receive email confirmation of your application or payment, but this isn’t always the case – don’t panic if you don’t get anything via email. Instead, log in with your username and password to check the status of your visa. You can also check the dedicated Verify an eVisa portal.

When your visa is issued, print off a couple of copies (one in color) to take with you, and download the PDF so you have a digital copy saved to your phone.

How much does a tourist visa for Kenya cost?

The standard visa is the single-entry visa and it costs US$51. All online payments are taken in US dollars. You can use this to enter Kenya once for business, tourism, medical or other reasons. The single-entry visa is valid for three months from the date of issue.

Your passport needs to have at least six months’ validity from the date of entry, and you must have a return ticket. 

Kenya also offers a multiple-entry visa for US$101, which is great if you’re planning at least two trips to Kenya in a year. It’s valid for three to 12 months from the date of issue. Multiple-entry visas sometimes require more paperwork, so some travelers prefer to apply for a single-entry visa each time, however Kenya’s visa service is getting better and faster online.

Does Kenya have a transit visa for short stays?

If you’re in Kenya for less than 72 hours and want to leave the airport, you don’t need a full visa. You can apply for a transit visa instead, which costs US$21. If your flight connects directly and you’re not leaving the airport, you don’t need a visa for Kenya at all.

If you’re also visiting Rwanda and Uganda, look into the East African Tourist Visa  (US$101).

Can I extend my visa to stay in Kenya longer?

You can extend your visa for 90 days by applying for the Visitor's Pass Extension via the Department of Immigration Services . Create an account, and after submitting your application, print out the form, sign it and take it to the Immigration Counter at Nyayo House in Nairobi for processing, along with your passport and original visa document.

Does Kenya offer a working holiday visa?

Kenya does not have a working holiday visa. Instead, you’ll need a work permit from the Department of Immigration Services. It’s illegal for any foreigner without a valid work permit to be employed in Kenya, including volunteering and self-employed work.

If you’re planning to volunteer or have an internship or other work placement, ask the host organization or company for advice on the correct work permit.

The East African Tourist Visa is an option

The  East African Tourist Visa  is a handy option if you’re planning on visiting Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda. This multiple-country tourist visa costs US$101 and is valid for three months from the date of issue.

You can apply online. Once it’s issued, print out your eVisa to show to immigration officials at your first port of entry, where you’ll receive an East Africa visa sticker for your stay.

This article was first published Jun 18, 2022 and updated Nov 29, 2023.

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Kenya Embassy Washington D.C.

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The Official Kenya e-Visa Application Portal

March 23, 2021 by Embassy of the Republic of Kenya D.C. in News and Events

• The Government of Kenya implemented 100% e-visa  beginning  1st January,2021  an implication that, Foreign Nationals seeking to visit Kenya are expected to  apply online  and  be issued with an e-visa prior to their travel .
• It is noted that many Foreign Nationals intending to apply for the Kenya e-visa have been visiting fake e-visa websites and as a result, losing money to scammers.
• The Government of Kenya would like to inform all Foreign Nationals that the  official e-Visa website  is  www.evisa.go.ke  and the  official email address  for the Directorate of Immigration Services is  [email protected] ‍
• For telephone enquiries, the Directorate of Immigration Services can be contacted on the following numbers as follows:                          

                                Monday to Friday- 8.00am- 5.00pm                                       +254110922063                                       +254110922064

                                Weekends and after 5.00pm                                      +254112620512                                      +254112620693

                               For payments queries                                     +254 110 922 062

A Comprehensive Guide On How To Change Your Visa For Travel To Kenya

• Last updated May 02, 2024
• Difficulty Intemediate

• Category Travel

Are you planning a trip to Kenya but concerned about the visa requirements? Look no further – this comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of changing your visa for travel to Kenya. Whether you're a tourist, student, or business traveler, this guide has all the information you need to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey to this beautiful East African country. So, let's dive in and explore the step-by-step process of changing your visa for travel to Kenya.

What You'll Learn

Introduction to changing a visa for travel to kenya, step-by-step guide on how to change your visa, documents and requirements for changing your visa for travel to kenya, tips and advice for a smooth visa change process.

If you're planning a trip to Kenya and need to change your visa, it's important to understand the process and requirements before you travel. Changing a visa for travel to Kenya can be done through the Kenyan immigration authorities, and it's important to follow the correct procedure to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

To start the process of changing your visa for travel to Kenya, you must have a valid reason for the change. This could include extending your stay, changing your visa type, or any other legitimate reason. It's important to note that changing a visa is subject to approval by the Kenyan immigration authorities, and it's not guaranteed that your request will be granted.

To initiate the process, you will need to visit the nearest immigration office or immigration desk at the airport upon arrival in Kenya. It's recommended to do this as soon as possible after your arrival to allow ample time for the process to be completed before your current visa expires.

You will need to complete an application form for changing a visa, which can usually be obtained at the immigration office or downloaded from the official Kenyan immigration website. Make sure to fill out the form accurately and provide all the required information.

Along with the application form, you will need to provide the necessary supporting documents. The specific documents required may vary depending on the type of visa you currently hold and the type of visa you wish to change to. Generally, you will need to submit your valid passport, a copy of your current visa, a recent passport-sized photograph, and any additional documents required for your specific visa change request.

It's crucial to carefully review the requirements and make sure you have all the necessary documents before submitting your application. Failure to provide the correct documents or incomplete information may result in delays or even a denial of your visa change request.

Once you have completed the application form and gathered all the required documents, you will need to submit them to the immigration authorities. They will review your application and make a decision on whether to approve or deny your visa change request.

The processing time for changing a visa can vary depending on various factors, such as the current workload of the immigration authorities and the complexity of your request. It's advisable to submit your application well in advance of your current visa's expiration date to allow sufficient time for the process to be completed.

If your visa change request is approved, you will be issued a new visa sticker or stamp in your passport, indicating the new visa type and validity period. Make sure to carefully review the details on the new visa and notify immigration officials immediately if there are any errors or discrepancies.

In the case that your visa change request is denied, you may be required to leave the country before your current visa expires or make alternative arrangements to rectify your immigration status in Kenya.

Changing a visa for travel to Kenya can be a straightforward process if you follow the correct procedure and provide all the necessary documents. It's essential to plan ahead, allow sufficient time for processing, and ensure that you meet all the requirements set by the Kenyan immigration authorities. By doing so, you can have a smooth and hassle-free experience in changing your visa for travel to Kenya.

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If you are planning to travel to Kenya and need to change your visa, here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

Step 1: Gather the necessary documents

Before you initiate the process of changing your visa, make sure you have all the required documents prepared. This may include your passport, current visa, application form, proof of financial means, and any other supporting documents specific to the type of visa you are applying for.

Step 2: Research the visa requirements

It is important to familiarize yourself with the specific visa requirements for traveling to Kenya. Visit the official website of the Kenyan immigration department or consult with the Kenyan embassy or consulate in your home country. Make note of all the necessary documents, fees, and any additional requirements.

Step 3: Complete the application form

Obtain and complete the application form for the new visa you wish to apply for. Ensure that all the information provided is accurate and matches the information on your passport.

Step 4: Prepare your supporting documents

Collect all the required supporting documents as specified in the visa requirements. This may include proof of travel itinerary, accommodation bookings, invitation letters, financial statements, employment letters, or any other relevant documents. Make sure the documents are up to date and meet the specific requirements.

Step 5: Submit your application

Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, submit your visa application to the authorized visa application center or Kenyan embassy/consulate in your home country. You may need to make an appointment in advance or submit your application via mail, depending on the specific requirements of the embassy or consulate.

Step 6: Pay the visa fees

Pay the required visa fees as instructed by the immigration authorities. The fees may vary depending on the type of visa and your nationality. Make sure to obtain a receipt or proof of payment for your records.

Step 7: Attend an interview (if required)

Some types of visas may require an interview as part of the application process. If you are requested to attend an interview, make sure to prepare by familiarizing yourself with the visa requirements, supporting documents, and any additional questions that may be asked during the interview. Dress appropriately and be prepared to answer questions regarding your travel plans, purpose of visit, and other relevant details.

Step 8: Track your application

Once you have submitted your application, you can track its progress online or by contacting the visa application center or embassy/consulate. This will help you stay updated on the status of your application and know when your new visa is ready for collection.

Step 9: Collect your new visa

Once your new visa has been approved, you will need to collect it from the designated visa application center or embassy/consulate. Make sure to bring any required identification or receipt with you. Double-check the visa details for accuracy before leaving the visa application center or embassy/consulate.

Changing your visa for travel to Kenya may seem like a daunting process, but by following these steps and preparing all the required documents, you can ensure a smooth and successful visa change. Remember to plan ahead and allow ample time for processing, especially during peak travel seasons.

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If you are planning to travel to Kenya and you need to change your visa, it's essential to know the documents and requirements for this process. Whether you're extending your visa or changing to a different type of visa, here is an overview of what you'll need to do:

Determine the type of visa you need:

Visit the official website of the Kenyan immigration department to understand the different types of visas available and choose the one that suits your needs. Common types of visas for travelers include tourist visas, business visas, and student visas.

Prepare the necessary documents:

• Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your intended departure from Kenya. Make sure you have blank pages available for visa stamps.
• Visa Application Form: Complete the visa application form, which can be obtained from the Kenyan embassy or consulate in your country or downloaded from their official website.
• Passport-sized photos: Attach two recent passport-sized photos to your application form. These photos should meet the specified requirements (e.g., size, background color).
• Flight Itinerary: Provide a copy of your confirmed round-trip flight itinerary.
• Invitation Letter (if applicable): If you are visiting Kenya for business or attending a conference/workshop, you may need an invitation letter from the host organization or individual.
• Proof of Sufficient Funds: You may need to provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Kenya. This can include bank statements, traveler's checks, or a letter from your employer.
• Other supporting documents: Additional documents may be required depending on the type of visa you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a student visa, you may need to provide acceptance letters from Kenyan educational institutions.

Submit your application:

Visit the Kenyan embassy or consulate in your country and submit your completed visa application form along with the necessary documents. Alternatively, you may be able to submit your application online, depending on the specific requirements of the Kenyan immigration department.

Pay the visa fee:

Pay the required visa fee at the time of submitting your application. The fee may vary depending on the type of visa and the duration of your stay. Ensure you have the exact amount in cash or check, as credit/debit cards may not be accepted.

Wait for processing:

After submitting your application, the processing time for your visa may vary. It is advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date to allow sufficient time for processing. Check the official website or contact the embassy/consulate for estimated processing times.

Collect your visa:

Once your visa application has been processed and approved, you can collect your visa from the Kenyan embassy or consulate. You may need to provide your passport and any applicable collection receipts.

Remember to double-check all the requirements before submitting your visa application to avoid any delays or rejections. It is also advisable to consult the official Kenyan immigration department website or seek assistance from the embassy/consulate for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding visa requirements and processes.

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If you're planning a trip to Kenya and need to change your visa, it's important to understand the process and have all the necessary documentation in order. Here are some tips and advice to help make the visa change process as smooth as possible:

• Research the visa requirements: Before you begin the visa change process, make sure you understand the specific requirements for the visa you want to obtain. Visit the official website of the Kenyan embassy or consulate to find accurate and up-to-date information.
• Determine the type of visa you need: Kenya offers various types of visas, including tourist visas, business visas, and transit visas. Determine the type of visa that best suits your travel purposes and duration of stay.
• Collect the required documents: Once you know the type of visa you need, gather all the required documents before visiting the embassy or consulate. These may include your passport, visa application form, passport-sized photographs, proof of travel arrangements, proof of accommodation in Kenya, and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.
• Schedule an appointment: Most embassies and consulates require applicants to schedule an appointment to submit their visa application. Check the embassy's website for information on scheduling appointments and plan accordingly.
• Fill out the visa application form accurately: Complete the visa application form with accurate and up-to-date information. Make sure to double-check your answers before submitting the form.
• Pay the visa fee: Kenya typically charges a visa fee, which varies depending on the type and duration of the visa. Verify the fee amount and payment methods accepted by the embassy or consulate.
• Submit your application: On the day of your appointment, bring all the required documents and submit your visa application to the embassy or consulate. Be prepared for possible additional questions or document requests during the submission process.
• Wait for processing: The visa processing time can vary depending on the embassy or consulate's workload. It's advisable to submit your application well in advance of your planned travel dates to allow for any potential delays.
• Follow up if necessary: If you haven't received a response within the expected processing time, reach out to the embassy or consulate to follow up on your application's status. Be polite and provide all the necessary information they may require.
• Collect your visa: Once your visa application is approved, go to the embassy or consulate to collect your visa. Check the specified collection times and requirements to ensure a smooth pick-up process.

Remember to keep copies of your visa and supporting documents with you during your travel to Kenya and comply with the terms and conditions of your visa. By following these tips and advice, you'll be better prepared for a smooth visa change process, allowing you to enjoy your time in Kenya with peace of mind.

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Frequently asked questions.

To change your visa for travel to Kenya, you will need to contact the Kenyan Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence. They will provide you with the necessary information and guide you through the visa change process.

Yes, it is possible to change a tourist visa to a work visa in Kenya. You will need to meet the specific requirements and follow the application process for a work visa. This may include obtaining a job offer from a Kenyan employer and providing relevant documentation.

The process to change a visa for travel to Kenya may vary depending on your current visa type and the type of visa you wish to obtain. Generally, you will need to submit a new visa application to the Kenyan Embassy or Consulate, along with supporting documents and fees. It is advisable to check the specific requirements and procedures for your visa change with the embassy or consulate before applying.

Yes, it is possible to extend your visa instead of changing it for travel to Kenya. You will need to contact the Kenyan Immigration Department or the nearest immigration office in Kenya to apply for a visa extension. It is important to apply for the extension before your current visa expires to avoid any immigration issues.

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Advance travel planning and early visa application are important. If you plan to apply for a nonimmigrant visa to come to the United States as a temporary visitor, please review the current wait time for an interview using the tool below. Not all visa applications can be completed on the day of the interview; please read the information below for more details .

Check the estimated wait time for a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Note: Please check the individual Embassy or Consulate website to determine if your case is eligible for a waiver of the in-person interview.

Applicants scheduling visa appointments in a location different from their place of residence should check post websites for nonresident wait times.

Select a U.S. Embassy or Consulate:

Global Visa Wait Times

Wait Time for Interview

The estimated wait time to receive a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at a U.S. embassy or consulate and is based on workload and staffing and can vary from week to week. The information provided is an estimate and does not guarantee the availability of an appointment.

Wait Time for Interview Waiver

Wait times for applicants eligible for Interview Waiver are applicable only for locations where applicants schedule appointments to submit their passport and any required documents to a U.S. embassy or consulate. The wait time estimate does not account for the time required for a consular officer to adjudicate the application nor mailing time of passports or other documents. Refer to the website of the Embassy or Consulate Visa Section where you will apply to determine your eligibility for Interview Waiver and for instructions for submitting a nonimmigrant visa application. Note that applicants must be a national or resident of the country where they are applying to be eligible to apply via Interview Waiver.

Qualifications for an Expedited Interview Appointment

Consular sections overseas may be able to expedite your interview date if there is an urgent, unforeseen situation such as a funeral, medical emergency, or school start date. The process to request an expedited nonimmigrant visa interview varies by location. You should refer to the instructions on the website of the Embassy or Consulate Visa Section  where you will interview, or on their online appointment scheduling site. You will need to provide proof of the need for an earlier appointment.

In all cases : You must first submit the online visa application form (DS-160), pay the application fee, and schedule the first available interview appointment. Only at this point will a consular section consider your request for an expedited appointment.

Note: Travel for the purpose of attending weddings and graduation ceremonies, assisting pregnant relatives, participating in an annual business/academic/professional conference, or enjoying last-minute tourism does not qualify for expedited appointments. For such travel, please schedule a regular visa appointment well in advance.

These estimates do not include time required for administrative processing, which may affect some applications. When administrative processing is required, the timing will vary based on individual circumstances of each case.

There are only two possible outcomes for U.S. visa applications. The consular officer will either issue or refuse the visa. If a visa applicant has not established that he or she is eligible for a visa, the consular officer must refuse that application. However, some refused visa applications may require further administrative processing. When administrative processing is required, the consular officer will inform the applicant at the end of the interview. The duration of the administrative processing will vary based on the individual circumstances of each case. At the conclusion of the administrative processing period, the consular officer might conclude that an applicant is now qualified for the visa for which he or she applied. The officer may also conclude that the applicant remains ineligible for a visa. Visa applicants are reminded to apply early for their visas, well in advance of the anticipated travel date.

Important Notice:   Except in cases of emergency travel (i.e. serious illnesses, injuries, or deaths in your immediate family), before making inquiries about status of administrative processing, applicants should wait at least 180 days from the date of interview or submission of supplemental documents, whichever is later.

About Visa Processing Wait Times – Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants

Information about nonimmigrant visa wait times for interviews and visa processing time frames are shown on this website, as well as on U.S. Embassy and Consulate websites worldwide. It should be noted that the “Wait Times for a Nonimmigrant Visa to be Processed” information by country does not include time required for administrative processing. Processing wait time also does not include the time required to return the passport to applicants, by either courier services or the local mail system.

In addition, it is important to thoroughly review all information on the specific  Embassy or Consulate Visa Section website  for local procedures and instructions, such as how to make an interview appointment. Embassy and Consulate websites will also explain any additional procedures for students, exchange visitors and those persons who need an earlier visa interview appointment.

About Wait Times

* Calendar days refers to every day of the week, including days when embassies are closed (such as weekends and holidays).

† Work days refers only to days when the embassy is open and does not include weekends and holidays.      

‡ A, G, and NATO applications are excluded from these wait times, as they are processed separately.

Immigrant Visa Interview-Ready Backlog Report

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