countries to travel without visa from kenya

Kenya passport visa free countries 2024

What are the visa-free countries for kenya passport holders, what countries provide visa on arrival for kenya passport holders, electronic travel authorization (eta) countries for kenya citizens, which countries do kenya citizens need to apply for an e-visa, list of countries requiring visas for kenya citizens.

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List of 39 Countries Kenyan Citizens Can Travel to Without Visa

The Henley Passport Index's 2021 Q4 also put the Kenyan passports at position eight in Africa
Holders of the Kenyan passport can now travel to up to 72 countries in the world
A Kenyan passport holder does not need a visa to visit 39 countries and 11 countries with an e-visa

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The Kenyan passport has been ranked 77th in the world in the latest global ranking report.

List of 39 Countries Kenyan Citizens Can Travel to Without Visa

The Henley Passport Index's 2021 Q4 also put the Kenyan passports at position eight in Africa.

According to Henley Passport Index's 2021 Q4, holders of the Kenyan passport can now travel to up to 72 countries in the world .

However, out of this number, a Kenyan passport holder does not need a visa to visit 39 countries and 11 countries with an e-visa.

countries to travel without visa from kenya

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Those without a visa can visit 28 countries visa-free but will be required to get a visa upon arrival.

Countries to visit without a visa;

1. Antigua and Barbuda

2. the bahamas, 3. barbados, 5. botswana, 8. dominica, 9. eswatini, 10. ethiopia, 12. the gambia, 14. grenada, 16. hong kong, 17. indonesia, 18. jamaica, 19. kiribati, 20. lesotho, 22. malaysia, 23. mauritius, 24. micronesia, 25. namibia, 27. palestine, 28. philippines, 30. saint kitts and nevis, 31. saint vincent and the grenadines, 32. senegal, 33. singapore, 34. tanzania, 35. trinidad and tobago, 37. vanuatu, 39. zimbabwe.

10 least powerful passports in the world Countries affected by terrorism had the least powerful and most useless passports in the world.

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These were:

1. afghanistan (26 destinations)., 2. iraq (28 destinations)., 3. syria (29 destinations)., 4. pakistan (32 destinations)., 5. yemen (33 destinations)., 6. somalia (34 destinations)., 7. palestinian territory (37 destinations)., 8. nepal (38 destinations)., 9. north korea (39 destinations)., 10. libya and kosovo (40 destinations)..

10 most powerful passports in the world

2. Singapore

3. german and south korea, 4. finland, italy, spain, luxembourg, 5. austria and denmark austria and denmark, 6. france, ireland, netherlands, portugal and sweden, 7. belgium, new zealand, switzerland, united kingdom and united states, 8. czech republic, greece, malta and norway, 9. australia, canada, 10. hungary.

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Kenyan Passport List of Visa-Free Countries
Free Visa Countries

Kenyan Passport List of Visa-Free Countries

Kenyan citizens can visit 45 countries without a visa. The Kenyan passport is ranked 74 th in terms of travel freedom according to Henley Passport Index . Kenyans are now able to get their new passports via the digital e-Citizen portal. This further enhances the provision of Government to Citizens services. Kenyan citizens have access to get 16 online e-visas or 24 visas on arrival.

Kenya is part of Eastern Africa, Africa. The capital city is Nairobi. It is a developing country with a population of 47 million people. The official languages are Swahili and English.

The legal tender of Kenya is Kenyan Shilling.

What is Kenya known for?

Millions of people around the globe visit Kenya each year to see the wildlife. Kenya has been recognized by the World Travel Awards as the world’s leading Safari Destination several times.

Mount Kenya is the highest mountain in Kenya and the second-highest in Africa after Mount Kilimanjaro which is located in Tanzania. Kenya is endowed with vast and diverse natural resources. The country has deposits of oil and gas, and limestone which is used highly in the manufacture of cement.

Nearby Countries for Kenyan Passport

The nearest visa-free countries to visit for Kenyan passport holders are:

South Sudan

Visa-free Countries for Kenyan Passport

If you are a citizen of Kenya who happens to hold the country’s passport, here is the list of visa-free countries you can visit.

This data has been sourced from Wikipedia

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i go to kenya without visa.

All foreigners that want to visit Kenya are required to obtain a visa before departing for Kenya. Those who want to visit Kenya without a visa will not be permitted.

Is Kenya visa free to Canada?

Yes. A Canadian citizen must have a Kenyan visa in order to enter Kenya legally. The immigration office will not permit illegal entry into Kenya.

Is Turkey visa free for Kenyan citizens?

Kenyan citizens must obtain a Turkey visa in order to enter the country.

Is Kenya visa free to Mexico?

Kenyan citizens desiring to travel to Mexico with only a passport will not be permitted. They must apply for a visa at the Mexican Embassy.

Related VISAs:

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Visa-Free Countries for Beninese Passport Holders
Visa-Free Countries for Cape Verde Passport
List of Visa Free Countries for Jordanian Passport Holders
About The Author
Latest Posts

I am a passionate writer, Father of 3 and i love travelling. Asides from travelling being a type of education, it also gives me the types of experiences to enable me write about Visa requirements for intending travellers. Follow all my posts on VisaCountries.com i wish you successful travel experience.

Travel these Countries with Algerian Passport Visa-Free

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Kenya visa-free countries for 2024

Did you know that as a Kenyan, you have the privilege to explore over 70 destinations without needing a visa? Yes, you read that right – a world of visa-free or visa-on-entry countries is waiting for you!

Kenyans looking to travel internationally often bump into the challenge of fulfilling visa requirements. Yet, there exists a generous list of countries welcoming Kenyans without the need for a pre-arranged visa .

From stunning locations on remote islands to economically booming nations and several neighboring African countries, the Kenyan traveler is spoiled for choice. Whether your travel plans include vacationing, health-related trips, education, shopping, or business, there's a destination ready to welcome you .

We've compiled a list of countries that offer visa-free access or visa-on-arrival for Kenyan passport holders – all you have to do is book, fly, and smile!

Kenya visa-free countries: Where can Kenyans travel without a visa?

According to the Henley Passport Index, which ranks passports by how many countries they allow the holder to visit without a visa, there are 76 countries that Kenyans can travel to without a visa.

This includes countries where Kenyan passport holders can obtain a visa on arrival, a visitor's permit, or an electronic travel authority (ETA) upon entry. In this instance, an e-visa also counts as a visa on arrival if the requirements for obtaining it are uncomplicated, e.g., visa fee, return ticket, and hotel reservation.

Here's a list of countries that are visa-exempt for Kenyan passport holders:

Which countries issue visas on arrival to Kenyan passport holders?

There's more good news on the travel front for Kenyans: beyond the visa-exempt countries, many destinations offer Kenyan passport holders the opportunity to obtain a visa upon arrival.

This means even more countries you can visit without worrying about getting a visa beforehand , making spontaneous trips and last-minute plans easier than ever.

Here's the updated list of countries where Kenyans can enjoy the flexibility of getting a visa on arrival:

Which countries do Kenyan citizens need to apply for an e-visa?

After exploring countries that offer visa-free entry and visas on arrival, let's look at where Kenyan citizens need to secure an e-visa before they travel. Luckily, getting an e-visa is usually a pretty simple process. It usually involves filling out the visa application form online and uploading a scan of your passport.

Because the process takes place online, you can handle everything from the comfort of your home without the need to visit an embassy or consulate. It's a convenient way to plan your trip.

Here are the countries that require Kenyans to get an e-visa:

Countries that require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for Kenyan passport holders

Let's discuss another travel document: the Electronic Travel Authorization, or ETA. Think of an ETA as a lighter, easier visa version. You still have to apply for it before your trip, but it's usually quicker and involves less paperwork. The main idea is to make it simpler for travelers to get the green light to visit a country without the more extensive visa process.

For Kenyan passport holders, there's one place where you'll need an ETA: Sri Lanka . It's the only country that currently asks Kenyans for this type of travel document.

Where can you travel visa-free, and when do you need to apply for an e-visa beforehand? Stay informed by using our handy Visa Checker Tool .

Traveling to Kenya: How do I know if I'm from a visa-free country?

Now, let's flip the script and talk about what nationals from other countries need to know when planning a trip to Kenya. If you're looking to visit Kenya, you might need to get a travel permit before coming. In fact, people from more than 100 countries have to sort this out before landing in Kenya.

In fact, there are only 6 countries whose citizens can come to Kenya without a travel authorization . The visa-exempt countries for Kenya are:

Democratic Republic of Congo

South Sudan

So, if you're lucky enough to be from one of these countries, your trip to Kenya just got much simpler. For everyone else, read on as we give you more details about the Kenya ETA.

From Mombasa to the Maasai Mara: How many days can I stay in Kenya if I'm from one of the visa-free countries?

The six countries we listed above are member states of the East African Community , a regional economic organization formed to improve connections, trade, and travel between partner countries.

Nationals of these countries are allowed to stay in Kenya for up to six months without needing a visa . Additionally, they can leave and re-enter Kenya multiple times during this period.

Kenya ETA: What if I'm not visa-free to enter Kenya?

If you're looking to visit Kenya and aren't from one of the visa-free countries, you'll likely need to apply for the Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before you set off.

The Kenya ETA is an online travel authorization that has replaced of the traditional Kenya eVisa . It's a digital pass designed to make travel planning smoother and more convenient.

Learn more about the Kenya ETA.

Need more information?

If you've got questions about applying for a Kenya ETA, you can reach out to our customer support team . Please send us a message on our live chat or at [email protected] .

Kenya replaces eVisa with the Kenya ETA system

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iVisa is NOT affiliated with any government agency. This site does not provide legal advice and we are not a law firm. None of our customer service representatives are lawyers and they also do not provide legal advice. We are a private, internet-based travel and immigration consultancy provider dedicated to helping individuals travel around the world. You may apply by yourself directly on the various government websites. The source of information: https://immigration.go.ke/

10 Gorgeous Visa-Free Travel Destinations for Kenyan Travellers

Kenyans who travel a lot, as well as those who read our blog, know that we have an exceptionally beautiful planet. There are destinations in this world that are so breathtaking that they defy logic. The Dazu Rock Carvings in China; gorgeous views atop Table Mountain in South Africa; Ithaa undersea restaurant in the Maldives; the Smoo Cave in Scotland; Lake Baikal in Russia; and the death defying 180 foot Palouse Falls in Washington are all places that will have you questioning your sanity. Sadly, these are also examples of places that many may never get to see due to visa restrictions.

As surprising as it may sound, one of the main hindrances to world travel is not the lack of money. It is the strict regulations and guidelines imposed by most countries when it comes to getting a tourist visa. Imagine all those stunning destinations; all those mind-boggling cultural differences and all that wonderful foreign food only a Visa Application Approval away. Thankfully, there are certain destinations that do not require you to get a visa as long as you have a Kenyan International Passport.

Recently, Kenyan passport was ranked 50th in the world out of 199 indexed passports . This means that Kenyan passport holders enjoy visa-free access to 68 countries in the world including Mauritius, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Jamaica, Bahamas, Ethiopia, Philippines, Singapore. Many of these destinations will either grant you a visa on arrival or allow you to stay within their borders for a stipulated period of time completely Visa Free. Here are 10 of the gorgeous visa-free travel destinations for Kenyan travellers.

Photo Source: Dave Johnson on Flickr

This stunning Caribbean Archipelago has about 700 islands and cays just waiting for you to explore them. Some of these islands are resort packed and many are uninhabited. You can go scuba diving, sunbathing, swim in the beautiful Atlantic Ocean and even re-live the days of the Pirates of the Caribbean at the ‘Pirates of Nassau Museum’. Bahamas is visa-free for Kenyan citizens with international passports. You can only stay visa-free for 3 months and your passport has to be valid for not less than 6 months.

2. Ethiopia

Rich with ancient culture; riddled with spectacular ruins and sprinkled with incredible natural beauty, Ethiopia is one of the most amazing Africa Nations. From the wonderfully beautiful people, to the awe-inspiring Blue Nile Falls, Danakil Depression, Lalibela and Awash National Park, Ethiopia will stun as much as it will seduce you. Kenyans can visit and stay visa-free within this splendid neighbouring country for up to a year. You however, must have a valid passport and sufficient funds to cover your stay as well as documentation for your next destination.

Photo Source: Adam Selwood on Flickr

Magnificent Fiji has more than 300 islands that are surrounded by pristine beaches. This gorgeous Republic is set on a backdrop of clear turquoise waters and is riddled with dynamic underwater coral as well as acres and acres of lush tropical jungle. Fiji is awash with natural beauty and Kenyan travellers can visit and explore her various destinations visa-free for up to 4 months. Your passport must be valid for not less than 6 months and a healthy sense of adventure is encouraged.

With 10 regions that each have its own customs, culture, foods and culture, Ghana is about as diverse as it gets. This West African Nation is not only intriguing but it is also very hospitable. It might not have sky hugging mountains or the Maasai Mara, but it does have a healthy helping of palm-lined beaches, an assortment of national parks and a host of ancient castles and forts that will keep you busy throughout your stay. Kenyan travellers can visit this astonishing melting pot of cultural diversity visa -free for up to 90 days. You must have a return or onward ticket or you will be refused entry.

5. Kiribati

Photo source: nick hobgood on flickr.

We bet you didn’t know about this one. Kiribati is a quaint island republic in Central Pacific. It is choke-full of white-sandy beaches, lagoons and a host of uninhabited islands that make her perfect for diving, fishing and bird watching. If you are looking for a quiet little place to hide-away along the Equator, then Kiribati is willing to host you visa-free for up to 90 days. You however, must have a return/onward ticket or you will be refused entry.

6. Mauritius

Yet another extraordinary island nation, Mauritius in the Indian Ocean is as beautiful as they come. Well known for her refreshingly good weather, astounding beaches, awe-inspiring lagoons and reefs, Mauritius is not only gorgeous, she is spectacular. The interior offers her visitors amazing natural attractions such as the Black River Gorges National Park, lush rainforests, picturesque hiking trails, rainbow-churning waterfalls and interesting native fauna such as the ‘flying fox’. Mauritius welcomes Kenyan visitors visa-free for up to 90 days.

7. Micronesia

Photo source: matt kieffer on flickr.

We bet you didn’t know about this one neither. Sprawled across the western Pacific, Micronesia is an island nation of astonishing beauty. She has well over 600 islands that boast palm-shaded beaches, wreck-filled dives and interesting ancient ruins such as sunken basalt temples, burial vaults and Nan Madol among many others. As a Kenyan traveller, you can savour the stunning beauty offered by Micronesia Visa-free for up to 30 days. Your passport must be valid for no less than 4 months and you must have a return/onward ticket or you will be refused entry.

8. Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Kitts and Nevis is a two-island nation that has a lot to say and show her visitors. Situated in the West Indies, these beautiful Caribbean islands will have you exploring a once mighty fortress, climbing a dormant volcano and a riding a narrow gauge railway that offers superlative views. All this with a backdrop of gorgeous beaches, wonderful people and great weather that simply won’t quit. You can visit Saint Kitts and Nevis visa-free up to 3 months. You must have a Kenyan international passport that has been valid for no less than 6 months and a return or onward ticket.

9. Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda

Falling within the confines of the East African Community, as a Kenyan you only need to hold a valid national ID or a passport to travel to any of these three neighbouring countries. You will be issued a visa on arrival in Rwanda for a maximum stay of 6 months. As for beautiful Tanzania and Uganda , no visa is required unless you intend to stay for more than 3 months in either country. Visit the Serengeti in Tanzania or sojourn with the Gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda; see what our neighbours have in store for you.

10. Vanuatu

A stunning small island nation in the South Pacific, Vanuatu has about 80 islands that simply do not play around when it comes to beauty. From scenic beaches, to coral reefs that will put your scuba diving skills to the test; underwater caverns, hiking trails, kayaking, rainforest Eco tours as well as a host of resorts and spas, Vanuatu is as gorgeous as she is thrilling. As a Kenyan, you can visit this island nation visa-free for up to 30 days. You must have a Kenyan international passport that has been valid for no less than 6 months and a return or onward ticket.

As a Kenyan, it is up to you to choose which one of these many wonderful destinations you want to visit. There is saying that you haven’t lived until you have travelled the world. Start living today and visit any of these gorgeous places absolutely visa-free.

Other Visa-Free Destinations Include:

Which visa-free travel destinations have you been to and which ones are your favourite? Share with us in the comment section below.

Our Readers Comments

I was interested in going to Bahamas but have questions on which route to take since all the transit destinations require Kenyans to have a transit visa before proceeding to Bahamas

You can go through UK or US and youre right you need a transit visa for either routes….However, its a real paradise my brother. YOU’LL NEVER RECOVER FROM THE EXPERIENCE

which country visa do you need for transit to bahamas

Very informative article..my travelling itch just got worse.!.how about including flights to the various destinations so as to have a n idea how much it would cost to get there? Thanks!

How can i reach there or how can you get me there

How can you get me there

Went to Seychelles for Carnival this year. Hope to go out of Africa next…what’s the cheapest out of Africa visa free destination?

Using my Kenyan International Passport, I have been able to visit many Visa free destinations and several others that I was granted Visa on arrival. It is very convenient to travel on holidays or business to these destinations.

Visa on arrival: Laos. Lovely, small, rapidly-developing south-east Asian country.

Have been to phillipines, hongkong, botswana, ethiopia, tanzania & uganda. Would love to visit madagascar & malawi

Traveling is bliss. do not let uncertain events minimize your experience. We encourage you to get travel insurance with AAR. call us today on 0724280866 or email [email protected]

Can u help me to get tourist visa to greece?

i would like to travel round the world on a kenyan passport

I am interested in working in Singapore as tipper driver if you can connect me

I was in Grand Baie, Mauritius for a couple weeks, mostly for work but the beaches there are spectacular… small crabs running into and out of holes in the ash-soft sand. I’d definitely want to go back, maybe a few days before duty and check out Port Louis.

Interesting .how can I get akenyan passport and an international .I would like to travel to Nigeria

anyone with visa for panama? the best route or connection, flights?

You forgot to include Indonesia on the list. You get free visa for 30 days. You should visit Bali its just magical. But make sure you get your yellow card vaccination ready. Thanks for the list

Beautiful. Will like visiti very soon.

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Countries Kenyans Can Travel to Without Visa

Visa free travel only requires that a traveler has a passport, travelling fare and any other documents that may be required by the country of destination.

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As of October 2023, Kenyans can travel to forty-five countries all around the world without a visa.

The Kenyan passport ranks 133rd in the world as of October 2023 as ranked by the Visa Guide Passport Index.

According to the index, Singapore’s passport ranks first as Singapore citizens can travel to 156 countries without visas.

Also Read: Larry Madowo Blasts Morocco Over Visa

Furthermore, the United States passport ranks 39th in the index. In this case, US passport holders can travel to 141 countries globally without a visa.

Countries Kenyans Can Travel to Without Visa

Travelling Within the East African Community (EAC)

In the East African Community (EAC), citizens of East African states can travel through EAC member countries without a visa.

Notably, the East African Community comprises of Kenya, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Uganda, and Tanzania.

The EAC has its headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania.

According to EAC guidelines, the transport documents required include passport, certificate of identity or the inter-state pass, proof of yellow fever vaccination and full Covid-19 vaccination certificate.

Only non-EAC citizens are required to travel without visas through East African Community member states.

Other than the EAC countries, Kenyan passport holders can travel to other select African and non- African countries without a visa.

African countries that do not require visas to travel to include South Africa, South Sudan, Mozambique, Malawi, Ethiopia and Eswatini.

Moreover, Kenyans can travel to popular tourist destination, Mauritius, without requiring visas.

Countries Outside Africa Kenyans Can Travel to Visa Free

Non-African countries where Kenyans can travel without a visa include Singapore, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago and Vanuatu.

Interestingly, Kenyans can also travel to Haiti without visas. However, Kenyan passport holders travelling without a visa can stay in Haiti for a period of 90 days after their arrival.

Also Read: High Court Stops Kenya from Deploying Police to Haiti

Other countries that Kenyans can travel visa free include Hong Kong, Barbados, Jamaica, Kiribati, Malaysia and Philippines.

Furthermore, other visa free countries to Kenyan backpackers are Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Cook Islands, Cuba, Dominica, Fiji, and Grenada.

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Wairimu Waweru

Michelle Waweru is a Digital Journalist at The Kenya Times. She specializes in Business, Economics, Gender, and Politics. She can be reached at [email protected]

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Visa-free travel for Africans: why Kenya and Rwanda have taken a step in the right direction

Research Fellow New South Institute, Emeritus Professor at The Nelson Mandela School of Public Governance, University of Cape Town

Disclosure statement

Alan Hirsch is employed as a research fellow at the New South Institute where he supervised some of the research on which this article is based.

University of Cape Town provides funding as a partner of The Conversation AFRICA.

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President William Ruto of Kenya recently announced that Kenya’s borders would be open to visitors from the entirety of Africa, with no visas required, by the end of 2023. He said

When people cannot travel, business people cannot travel, entrepreneurs cannot travel, we all become net losers.

A few days later, President Paul Kagame of Rwanda followed suit , saying all Africans would be able to enter Rwanda without visas.

Neither Kenya nor Rwanda will be the first. By the end of 2022, Benin, The Gambia and Seychelles had already implemented a system of visa-free access for all Africans. Perhaps more will follow soon. Some regions, some sub-regional groups and some bilateral arrangements have also resulted in visa-free access and even passport-free access in certain cases.

Within the broader East African Community, Uganda, Rwanda and Kenya allow cross border travel without passports. Botswana and Namibia recently signed a similar agreement.

Despite this progress, by the end of 2022 only 27% of African routes allowed Africans to travel visa-free.

Actions such as those of Kenya and Rwanda take the African Union’s agenda further. Regularising freer movement of people across African borders is one of the continent’s great developmental challenges. It is one of the flagship projects of the African Union’s Agenda 2063 .

But even if all African countries no longer required visas from Africans, this would not necessarily give the visitors a right to apply for jobs, establish a business or build a home in the receiving country. The 2018 African Union Free Movement of Persons protocol aims for full free movement, through three phases – entry, residence and establishment. This includes full economic rights, including employment. It has not been widely ratified, however.

Our new study of migration trends underscores the potential contributions of migration to economic development in the countries of origin and destination. This is realised through the transfer of skills, knowledge and remittances. The study also shows that intra-African migration is firmly rooted in geographical, social and economic ties. Movement is predominantly within regions, and moderately between them.

Free trade and movement of people

African Union policies support freer intracontinental trade, investment and movement of people to promote the continent’s economic, social and political development. The continent has made progress on the aspects of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement that deal with trade and investment. There hasn’t been much progress on the free movement of people. And yet the success of the trade agreement requires freer movement of people.

This interdependence between trade and free movement of people was the focus of the recent Pan-African Forum on Migration held in Gaborone, the Botswana capital. The forum brings together African Union member states, the continent’s regional economic communities, UN agencies and intergovernmental organisations to deliberate on migration and human mobility issues in Africa.

Read more: Free movement of people across Africa: regions are showing how it can work

The conference noted that most African countries had failed to ratify the African Union’s Free Movement of Persons protocol . At the same time, there was evidence of improvements in policies and practices at national, bilateral and multilateral levels that facilitate the freer movement of Africans.

Apart from recent announcements by Rwanda and Kenya, other instances would be a growing number of reciprocal arrangements between countries.

Regional migration a norm

The history of African statehood, with strong social ties across national boundaries, makes regional mobility a norm rather than an exception. This can be seen from the migration routes, mostly found within the same regions and which proceed in both directions.

For example, Burkina Faso to Côte d’Ivoire is the largest migrant route in the continent and within the Economic Community of West Africa ( Ecowas ) – the economic bloc of 15 west African states. Côte d’Ivoire to Burkina Faso is equally popular. This trend is ubiquitous throughout the continent, except within the Southern African Development Community region, where most migrant routes tend to lead to South Africa.

Among the major regional economic communities, Ecowas has the most intense regional migration. It is followed by the Southern African Development Community and the East African Community. By contrast, Ecowas has the least inter-regional migration while the East African Community has the most.

Variations in development across Africa mean that some countries experience contrasting patterns, particularly in extra-continental migration. While most African migrants migrate to and from other parts of the continent, in middle income countries such as South Africa, Kenya and Nigeria extra-continental emigration is greater.

Immigration and emigration are generally low in low income countries and higher in middle income countries. In rich countries, people tend not to emigrate. The relatively low level of migration in Africa follows this pattern.

Only 14% of total world emigrants come from Africa. The average migrant density, or percentage of migrants living on the continent, is 1.89% compared to a global average of 3.6% where Europe and North America are at 12% and 16% respectively. African migration is thus not only comparatively low compared with the global averages, but characteristically depicts low income.

High income countries tend to have more immigrants than emigrants. The converse is true for low income regions. Africa as a whole has more emigrants than immigrants, confirming the link between migration and development.

Legal restrictions matter little

Much migration in Africa is impervious to legal constrictions or definitions of national boundaries, and even to logistical constraints. Government dictates succeed in making much of this migration irregular but fail to stop it. Though regional integration and liberalisation of migration rules are helpful, they do not yet solve this challenge.

The main migrant sending country to Kenya is Somalia, despite not being in the same regional economic community. And despite efforts by the government of Kenya to deter Somali migrants to Kenya. The main destination country for Nigerian emigrants in Africa is Cameroon, even though it does not belong to Ecowas.

While African migration governance reforms are making considerable progress it will still be a while till they catch up and are able to deal fairly and rationally with the reality of migration patterns in Africa.

Michael Mutava of the New South Institute authored the report on which this article is based.

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Can I Go to Kenya Without a Visa?

Kenya has signed a reciprocal visa waiver treaty with a number of countries. This means citizens of these nations are exempt from obtaining a visa for Kenya for short stays.

Foreign passport holders who are not citizens of these countries will need to get a visa to travel to Kenya. All nationalities can now obtain a Kenya eVisa through a simple online application.

Which Countries Can Enter Kenya Without a Visa?

At present, citizens of over 40 countries are able to travel to Kenya visa-free.

Although they do not need a visa for Kenya, the majority of these foreign citizens are still required to have a passport valid for at least 6 months on arrival to gain entry to the country.

However, citizens of Uganda and Rwanda can enter Kenya simply by presenting a valid national ID card.

Additionally, holders of diplomatic or service category passports from the following countries do not need a visa for Kenya:

India (diplomatic passports only)

However, ordinary passport holders from these countries are not visa-exempt for Kenya. Luckily, all of these nationalities are eligible to apply for a Kenya visa online.

Which Countries Do Not Need a Visa for Kenya?

Ordinary passport holders who are citizens of the following countries are currently visa-free for Kenya:

Papua New Guinea
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Saint Lucia
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Sierra Leone
Solomon Islands
South Africa
Trinidad and Tobago

How long can you stay in Kenya without a visa?

Most of these nationalities are permitted a visa-exempt stay in Kenya of up to 90 days, although South African and Malaysian passport holders are only allowed a total stay of 30 days.

What if I Am Not Visa-free to Enter Kenya?

Travelers who are not-visa free for Kenya will be required to have an approved Kenyan visa to enter the country. At present, it is necessary to apply for a Kenya visa online before traveling to the country, as it is no longer possible to obtain a visa on arrival for Kenya.

Kenya eVisa for travelers who are not visa exempt

The Kenyan government introduced the Kenya eVisa system for passport holders from over 160 countries worldwide in 2015, to facilitate the process of obtaining a visa for Kenya for tourism, business, transit, or medical purposes.

All foreign citizens who are not visa-free for Kenya are required to submit a Kenya visa application online .

An approved Kenya eVisa allows the holder to enjoy a stay of up to 90 consecutive days in the country. It is a single entry visa valid for 3 months from the date of issue.

Kenya Visa Application Requirements for Non-visa-exempt Citizens

It is necessary to have the following to meet the online Kenya visa requirements :

Passport with minimum validity of 6 months from the intended date of arrival, containing at least one blank page
Confirmed flight ticket for return or onward travel
Proof of sufficient funds (such as bank statements) to cover the entire stay in Kenya
Evidence of hotel bookings or other proof of accommodation in Kenya

Once these requirements have been met, the applicant is able to complete the Kenya eVisa form online . It only takes a few minutes to fill in the application using basic personal, passport, and travel details.

It is also necessary to supply a current email address at which to receive the approved eVisa, and to pay the online Kenya visa fee using a valid credit or debit card authorized for online payments.

Applicants are advised to submit their Kenya eVisa form at least 7 business days in advance of their intended date of entry to allow for sufficient processing time. Once they have received their approved visa sent by email , they should print a copy to present to border officials on arrival.

Co-founding partner of Ong’anya Ombo Advocates LLP and a member of the Law Society of Kenya’s Cross-Border Practice & Immigration Committee

Ombo Malumbe is a practicing lawyer in Kenya, co-founder of Ong’anya Ombo Advocates LLP, and a member of the Law Society of Kenya’s Cross-Border Practice & Immigration Committee (2022-’24). His law firm received the Immigration Law Firm of the Year award from GlobalLawExperts in 2022.

Kenya to Launch New Electronic Travel Authorization

East Africa Tourist Visa for Kenya

How Long Is a Kenyan eVisa Valid for?

What a visa-free travel to Kenya means and how it will work

As Kenya marked 60 years of independence from Britain, President William Ruto made a historic declaration when he announced that global visitors will from January 2024 enter Kenya visa-free.

“It shall no longer be necessary for any person from any corner of the globe to carry the burden of applying for a visa to come to Kenya," President Ruto said in an address at Uhuru Gardens.

The Head of State further explained that all travelers will henceforth obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter Kenya.

“To implement this new policy, we have developed a digital platform to ensure that all travellers to Kenya are identified in advance on an electronic platform,” he stated.

Before the presidential declaration, Kenya had waived visa requirements for a number of countries.

According to Immigration information on eCitizen, nationals of 42 countries ranked as Category 1 had been exempted from obtaining a Visa.

Nationals from 144 other countries ranked as category 2, may be issued with e-Visas upon application on eCitizen platform.

While 25 groups have been exempted from the visa requirement, nationals from 16 other countries are not allowed to make e-Visa applications on eCitizen.

What then does it mean to make Kenya a visa-free state to the world? A visa-free travel to a country is the ability to visit a country without having to obtain a visa with your passport.

Visa-free policies are commonly applied only for tourist or business purposes and allow short stays between 30-90 days in a country. Importantly, visitors still need a valid travel document such as a passport to enter a visa-free state.

Nations establish visa-free entries to establish good diplomatic relationships or to achieve economic development.

As a proponent of free trade in Africa, President Ruto has on numerous occasions called on African nations to abolish visa requirements for its population.

This, Ruto says, will support the establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) which seeks to create a borderless market for African entrepreneurs and businesses.

Under the visa-free policy, Kenya will begin using the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to identify visitors entering its soil.

With an aim to digitize its borders by 2025, the UK government in 2023 launched an ETA to allow travellers from eligible nations to visit Britain without acquiring a visa. The visa-free provision will apply to citizens of selected nations, who visit UK for tourism, study, business or to visit friends and family.

The Canadian government also has an ETA policy for visa-exempt countries.

To get an ETA, a traveler intending to visit Kenya will required to apply through a digital platform, just as announced by President Ruto.

Normally, one is required to have a valid passport for verification, and will also be needed to pay a fee. In some cases, additional identification documents may be required before the authorization is validated.

The ETA is then electronically linked to one’s passport or travel document.

While the visa requirement for visitors will be scrapped, this does not mean that there will be no charges to apply for entry into Kenya using the ETA.

In a gazette notice in November 2023, the government through the Ministry of Interior had announced that ETA charges will be $30 (approximately Ksh.4,500) from January 2024.

The gazette notice had also highlighted changes in visa fees, where a Single Entry Visa would cost $ 100, $500 for a Multiple Entry Visa, $160 for a 5-year Multiple Entry Visa and $200 for an extension of visa after six months.

Additionally, Sanctions for Overstaying will cost $100, Referral/Multiple Entry Visa processing fees will cost $100, a Transit Visa for $50 and an East African Tourism Visa for $100. The changes were meant to be effective on January 1, 2024.

Globally, nations have made various visa pacts to ease movement and trade within one another. Other also have visa-free policies, and ETA systems in place.

Such visa agreements include the Schengen Agreement; which covers 27 European countries, the US Visa Waiver Program which allows citizens from 40 countries to enter America without a visa.

Citizens from 15 member states in the ECOWAS can enter without a visa and stay for 90 days and the East African Community agreement enables visa-free travel for Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda citizens.

There is also a Commonwealth Agreement that allow citizens of certain commonwealth countries to enter visa-free in member states, and a bilateral agreement that allows US and Canada citizens to travel across the two countries without a visa by using either; their passport, a border crossing card, or an enhanced driver’s license.

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Kenya Visa Exemption

Kenya visa exemption & requirements

Kenyan visa exempt countries.

To enter Kenya for a short term visit, citizens of the following countries are able to travel in Kenya without a visa:

Barbados (3 months)
Belize (90 days)
Botswana (90 days)
Brunei (30 days)
Burundi (3 months)
Cyprus (3 months)
Dominica (90 days)
Ethiopia (3 months)
Fiji (3 months)
Gambia (3 months)
Ghana (90 days)
Grenada (3 months)
Jamaica (90 days)
Kiribati (3 months)
Lesotho (90 days)
Malawi (3 months)
Malaysia (30 days)
Maldives (3 months)
Mauritius (3 months)
Namibia (90 days)
Nauru (3 months)
Papua New Guinea (3 months)
Rwanda (6 months)
Saint Kitts and Nevis (3 months)
Saint Lucia (90 days)
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (3 months)
Samoa (3 months)
San Marino (3 months)
Seychelles (3 months)
Sierra Leone (90 days)
Singapore (3 months)
Solomon Islands (3 months)
South Africa (30 days)
Eswatini (3 months)
Tanzania (3 months)
Tonga (3 months)
Trinidad and Tobago
Tuvalu (3 months)
Uganda (3 months)
Vanuatu (3 months)
Zambia (3 months)
Zimbabwe (3 months)

Nationals from 4 countries in Asia are exempt from Kenya visa, while those from 28 other countrie(s) will require a valid entry visa.

Nationals from 2 countries in Europe are exempt from Kenya visa, while those from 44 other countrie(s) will require a valid entry visa.

Nationals from 18 countries in Africa are exempt from Kenya visa, while those from 35 other countrie(s) will require a valid entry visa.

Central America and Caribbean

Nationals from 10 countries in Central America and Caribbean are exempt from Kenya visa, while those from 10 other countrie(s) will require a valid entry visa.

South America

Nationals from all countries in South America will need visas to travel to Kenya as tourists.

Nationals from 9 countries in Oceania are exempt from Kenya visa, while those from 5 other countrie(s) will require a valid entry visa.

Middle East

Nationals from all countries in Middle East will need visas to travel to Kenya as tourists.

North America

Nationals from all countries in North America will need visas to travel to Kenya as tourists.

Comments (0)

Do you need a visa to visit Kenya?

Nov 29, 2023 • 4 min read

Two women walking along a path in a park in Kenya while laughing together

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.

Two people looking out of a Jeep Safari in Kenya, Africa

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.

Kenyan market stalls on the side of the Nairobi Highway (A2).

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.

A lion in the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya

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 June 2022 and updated November 2023

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Kenya Travel Without Visa

Tourist visas are constantly evolving and changing to meet the needs of modern travelers and a fast-paced, interconnected world. Whereas it used to take weeks to months to process, now most travelers can get an electronic visa (or an electronic travel authorization) within days or minutes. Some countries have even eliminated tourist visas for official passport holders to make visiting more accessible and straightforward.

If you’re planning a trip to Kenya , you may be wondering about Kenya’s visa-waiver policy, how to obtain a visa on arrival, and whether or not you can travel visa-free. We’ve got the answers you’re looking for about the visa requirements to visit.

Can I Travel to Kenya Without a Visa?

Which countries don’t need visas for kenya, kenya visa on arrival, getting an overseas citizen of kenya card, how do i get a kenyan visa, be visa-ready for kenya.

No, the visa on arrival for Kenya was discontinued at the end of 2020. From January 1, 2021, non–Kenya passport holders need to obtain an online visa.

Even if they’re not traveling on a Kenyan passport, citizens of certain countries do not require a visa to visit for tourism purposes.

These visa-free countries include some belonging to the All East African Community Partner states; they are Burundi, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda.

Several Caribbean and Pacific countries receive visa-free access, including Barbados, Belize, Fiji, Grenada, Jamaica, Kiribati, Maldives, Nauru, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, Seychelles, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.

A number of African countries are also exempt from providing a valid visa to visit Kenya. They extend to Botswana, Eswatini, The Gambia, Ghana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Namibia, Sierra Leone, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Kenya does not have a visa on arrival. All foreigners visiting Kenya for tourism, medical, or business need to apply for a Kenyan visa online.

There’s an Issuance of Foreign Nationals Certificate (Alien Card) that enables Kenyan citizens to maintain their connection to the country while living abroad. It recognizes the status of a person as an overseas citizen of Kenya.

To apply for this card, these documents and payment are required:

Copy of the bio data page from a valid passport
Proof of residence (i.e., permit, permanent residency, or dependent/student pass)
Two current passport photographs taken in color against a white background
For renewal cases, a copy of the previous alien card
A charge of KSh1000 per year (or part thereof)

To decide between Kenya’s electronic visas, determine the reason for your visit, the length of validity you’ll need, and the category that works for your visit, be it a single or multiple-entry visa.

You will be required to submit the following documents with your application:

A clear, color scan or photo of the biodata page of your passport (the page with your photo, name, and personal details)
Your completed application
A recent passport-style color photo
Payment of the required visa fee

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Obtaining a visa is an essential part of planning 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.

Home News Which Countries Can Enter Kenya without Visa?

Which Countries Can Enter Kenya without Visa?

Kenya has signed visa waiver treaties with several countries, allowing their citizens to visit Kenya without a visa for short stays . However, foreign passport holders who are not from these countries will need to obtain a visa. Depending on their nationality, they may be eligible for a Kenya eVisa , which can be obtained through an online application, eliminating the need to visit a Kenyan embassy or consulate in person.

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Get eTA to Kenya

Step1: Apply on-line Provide the information from your passport to eTA application.
Step2: Make an online payment Payment Methods: Credit Card
Step3: Check your e-mail address If your payment is confirmed, your eTA will be sent to your e-mail

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Can Kenya’s New Visa-Free Policy Hurt Tourism Instead of Boosting It?

I n January this year, Kenya went visa-free for travelers across the world. This past December, Kenyan President William Ruto announced the decision to scrap visas for all tourists at the beginning of 2024.

The historic move to open Kenya’s borders to travelers from around the world could spur the growth of the nation’s tourism industry. Except there is a catch, one big enough to end up hurting the industry and the nation’s economy instead of boosting them.

Inside Kenya’s New Visa-Free Policy

Last year, during the 60th Jamhuri Day Celebrations in Nairobi, President Ruto announced there would be no need to get a visa to enter Kenya . The decision to make Kenya visa-free and open up the borders to the citizens of the world closely followed another one of the president’s proclamations in Congo-Brazzaville in October last year. At that time, he first proposed the need for visa-free travel between African countries. He promised that Kenya would implement visa-free travel for all Africans by the end of the year.

In his speech announcing the latest landmark movement, President Ruto said, “It is with great pleasure, as president of this extraordinary country, to make a historic announcement of the decision of the Government of Kenya. Beginning January 2024, Kenya will be a visa-free country.”

“It shall no longer be necessary for any person from any corner of the globe to carry the burden of applying for a visa to come to Kenya. To echo the call of the Turkana people to the world: 'Tobong’u Lorre!' Kenya has a simple message to humanity: Welcome Home!” he added.

That now iconic speech quickly went viral. It seemed that the nation was finally entering an era of globalization with a move that encourage ssteady socio-economic development.

Kenya’s tourism industry could also use a boost. While many travelers have an African safari at the top of their bucket list, traveling to and through the continent comes with more than a few logistical challenges. A visa just adds to all the costs and paperwork. Netizens praised Kenya’s bold decision.

That is, until everyone started noticing the fine print.

In his speech, President Ruto mentioned that the state had developed a new platform to identify and keep track of travelers coming into the country. While no one needs a visa to enter Kenya anymore, they now need an electronic travel authorization (ETA) from the digital site. An ETA is basically a simplified form of a visa, and it comes with a processing fee.

The ETA is technically for security reasons. It would help maintain a database of those entering and exiting the country. The process of getting the ETA is where it gets complicated enough to make even visas seem more accessible.

With the new ETA system, people from countries who didn’t need a visa previously to enter Kenya are now required to pay between $34 and $52, just like everyone else, to enter the country.

Before the introduction of the policy, individuals of 51 different nationalities did not need visas. Now, they need to go through a tedious process that involves submitting flight details, proof of hotel booking , etc., before traveling. Then, they need to wait 72 hours to get electronic authorization to travel the country.

For all this to work, people need to know their arrival and departure dates way in advance to apply for the permit. The current system can create issues when people may need to travel in an emergency.

People from the East African Community (EAC) are exempt from the rules and don’t need to go through the lengthy process of getting the ETA before entering Kenya. The new policy also benefits those who needed to pay more for visas before this.

Those who already have e-visas for East Africa travel do not need to apply for the ETA either. But nearly everyone else needs to bear the brunt of the blow. Even children under 16, who previously needed no visa to enter the country before, must pay to get an ETA.

The implications of this move may not just be limited to added paperwork and fresh costs, deterring travelers from visiting the country in the near future. There is a chance that the 51 nations who didn’t need visas before — and others who got the short end of the stick in this deal — might retaliate. After all, Kenyans need to travel, too. And the countries for whom traveling to Kenya just got way more difficult than it was before might ensure that Kenyans struggle while entering their states as well.

Can Kenya’s New Visa-Free Policy Hurt Tourism Instead of Boosting It?

Tuesday, April 23, 2024

Top 7 Visa Free Countries for Indians in 2024

By tripfactory, april 18, 2024.

The nation's administration has decided that Indian passport holders would be able to enter the country from November 10th, 2023 until May 2024 without visa.

Starting December 1, 2023, Indian visitors can enter Indonesia without a visa for up to 30 days, making Bali a popular destination for amazing experiences.

This destination offers travelers whitewater rafting, delicious food, beautiful beaches, wildlife-filled national parks, and historical vibes.

Kenya will no longer need visas for Indian nationals beginning January 1, 2024, as the government removes the necessity for all foreign travelers to promote the country's tourist industry.

Iran authorized visa-free travel for Indians for up to 15 days on February 4th in order to boost tourism and attract more visitors to the nation.

Sri Lanka's Ministry of Tourism announced that travelers from seven countries, including India, will be able to visit the nation visa-free for around 30 days.

It's the most popular location as it has the greatest cuisine, music, and traditions. Enjoying visa-free entry for around 90 days makes this the ideal place to visit in the summer of 2024.