Get the Kenya visa for US citizens

Fast, secure, and expert-led visa processing for American citizens traveling to Kenya

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Kenya visa requirements for American citizens

American citizens usually need a visa to visit Kenya, unless they qualify for visa-free entry through a Travel Authorization Certificate.

iVisa offers one Kenya entry document for U.S. travelers:

Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): This document allows American citizens a visa-free entry to Kenya for a period of 90 days from the date of issuance. It’s a single-entry document and allows a maximum stay of 90 days.

General Kenya visa requirements for U.S. travelers are:

American passport valid for at least six months Passport-size photo Confirmed round-trip flight ticket and accommodation reservation Letter from employer (if applicable) Cover letter stating purpose and itinerary Bank statements (recent 3 months) Business of invitation letter (if applicable)

Kenya visa cost for American citizens

Kenya eTA

Prices starting from $79.99

Valid for 3 months after issued

Single entry

Stay up to 90 days per entry

Get it as fast as 2 days

Fast facts

Interview needed?

On a case-by-case basis (only for embassy visa)

When to apply?

At least 1 week in advance

Documents required upon arrival?

Valid U.S. passport (6+ months validity), confirmed return or onward ticket, Kenyan ETA

How to apply for a Kenya visa with iVisa

Complete your online application

Answer a few simple questions, determine whether you need the Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), or another Kenya visa or document, pay securely, and upload your documents. You can save your progress and come back anytime. We'll guide you through any unclear questions during the application process.

We review your application

The Kenya visa system can be complicated for American citizens, but don't worry – we review your whole application to catch anything that might cause delays.

We submit it for government processing

We’re not the Kenyan government, but we review your application for accuracy and submit it directly to them. If anything goes wrong, we’re here 24/7 to help resolve it – no long wait times, no confusing forms, just expert support from start to finish.

Get your Kenya visa

We’ll email your approved Kenya document and let you know how to use it for your trip from the United States to Kenya.

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Why American citizens choose iVisa

Benefit	Applying by yourself	iVisa
Simple, easy forms	Not included	Included
24x7 support from visa experts	Not included	Included
Error detection to prevent rejections	Not included	Included
World's easiest passport scan	Not included	Included
Multiple payment methods	Not included	Included

1.4M happy customers

24/7customer support

70,000+ reviews

10 years of experience

98% visa approval rate

Verified Kenya visa reviews

Rated 4.9 out of 5 by travelers to Kenya.

4.9 out of 5

Carole Fowle

July 9, 2025

"I was very pleased at how quick everything was completed and dealt with. I think the cost of the visa is quite expensive."
Mumbi

June 24, 2026

"This is my second time applying for my kenyan visa and the effectiveness of this service is totally recommendable."
Italo Nesti

October 26, 2025

"Efficient and quick service. I appreciated it"
Mira U.

May 29, 2025

"The staff provided great support throughout."
Gopal

March 26, 2026

"Very easy to apply for the visa online."
Letimar L.

May 29, 2025

"Amazing service — very satisfied!"
Gloria

June 25, 2025

"Trusted and Timely"
Malcolm Clifford chant

April 15, 2026

"Very good service"
Florence Meinert

August 5, 2025

"Well done"
Louis vermaak

June 27, 2025

"Very good"

See all 164 reviews

Kenya visa FAQs

What American travelers commonly ask about Kenya visas

Do American citizens need a visa for Kenya?

No, American citizens do not need a visa for Kenya, but must obtain a Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before flying.

What is the processing time of a Kenya visa for U.S. applicants?

The standard processing time for a Kenya eTA is three working days, though some applications may take longer depending on individual circumstances. For U.S. citizens applying for the 5-year multiple-entry eTA, processing typically takes about five business days. It is highly recommended to submit your application at least two weeks before your departure to account for any potential delays, as an approved eTA is required before you can board your flight.

How long can American nationals stay in Kenya?

U.S. citizens can stay in Kenya for up to 90 days on a single entry under the standard Kenya eTA. If you need more time, you can apply for an extension through the Kenyan Directorate of Immigration Services while in the country, which may grant an additional 90 days for a total maximum stay of 180 days per visit. While the 5-year multiple-entry eTA allows you to enter frequently over a long period, each individual stay is still generally capped at the same 90-day limit unless a formal extension is approved.

Do American citizens need a visa when transiting through Kenya?

American citizens do not need a visa to transit through Kenya if they remain within the airport's international transit area. However, if you plan to leave the airport precincts during your layover, you must obtain a Transit eTA, which costs approximately $20 and is valid for 72 hours.

Can American nationals extend their stay in Kenya?

American nationals can extend their stay in Kenya for an additional 90 days, bringing their total stay to 180 days. Extensions must be requested online via the eFNS portal before the initial 90-day period expires. Approval is at the discretion of immigration authorities and requires a fee.