Kenya East African Tourist Visa

The East African Tourist Visa introduced in 2014 allows travelers to visit three countries on a single visa: Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. This makes travel between these countries more accessible and convenient, enabling tourists to experience a range of cultural and natural attractions. 

It also boosts tourism, promotes regional cooperation, and strengthens the economies of these countries. In the future, more countries may join this initiative, making it even easier to explore the wonders of East Africa.

Discover Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda with the Kenya East Africa Tourist Visa

The Kenyan government currently offers the East Africa Visa for those wishing to explore East Africa. Before applying, make sure you have the necessary travel documents. This article provides information on the visa and how to travel to Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.

The visa can be applied for online using a quick and hassle-free digital form. Enjoy discovering different cultures, beautiful nature, and wildlife in these countries.

What is the East African Tourist Visa?

The Kenya East Africa Tourist Visa is a multiple-entry travel document for tourism, business, family visits, and medical treatment between Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. The visa is applied for online and requires entry into East Africa through Kenya. The partnership between the three countries aims to promote regional travel and explore the diverse culture, nature, and wildlife in East Africa.

Who is eligible to apply for the Kenya East Africa Tourist Visa?

The Kenya East Africa Tourist Visa is a single visa that allows travelers to visit Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. The following individuals are eligible to apply for the Kenya East Africa Tourist Visa:

• Foreign nationals who wish to visit Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda for tourism purposes.
• Nationals of countries that are eligible for e-visa issuance for each of the three countries.
• Individuals who are not prohibited from entering Kenya, Uganda, or Rwanda by the respective government authorities.
• Visitors who hold valid travel documents and have proof of onward travel.
• Visitors who have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in the three countries.

It is important to note that the visa is only valid for 90 days and allows multiple entries into the three countries during that time.

Validity Period of the Kenya East Africa Tourist Visa

Validity Period of the Kenya East Africa Tourist Visa:

• The Kenya East Africa Tourist Visa is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance.
• Each entry allows visitors to stay for up to 3 months in the region.
• The visa must be used within 3 months of the issuance date.
• It is a multiple-entry visa, but it automatically expires if you leave the region.
• To enter the second or third country under this agreement, you must do so from another East African nation.

Required Documents for Kenya East Africa Tourist Visa Application

Here are the required documents for a Kenya East Africa Tourist Visa application:

• A valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining from the date of entry.
• A completed visa application form. This can be done online or in-person at the Kenyan embassy or consulate.
• One passport-sized photo with a white background.
• Proof of travel arrangements, such as a round-trip ticket or itinerary.
• Proof of accommodation arrangements, such as hotel reservations or an invitation letter from a host.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate, if applicable.
• Payment of the visa fee, which varies depending on the applicant's nationality and the length of stay.

It is important to note that additional documents may be required depending on the purpose of your visit and your individual circumstances. 

Benefits of Obtaining a Kenya East Africa Tourist Visa

Here are some of the benefits of obtaining a Kenya East Africa Tourist Visa:

Multiple entries: The Kenya East Africa Tourist Visa allows for multiple entries into Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda during its 90-day validity period.

Convenience: Rather than obtaining separate visas for each country, the East Africa Tourist Visa allows visitors to travel between the three countries without the need for additional visas.

Cost-effective: The East Africa Tourist Visa is more cost-effective than obtaining separate visas for each country, making it a great option for travelers on a budget.

Tourism opportunities: The East Africa region is home to some of the world's most iconic wildlife and cultural attractions, including the Maasai Mara National Reserve and the mountain gorillas of Uganda and Rwanda.

Flexibility: The visa is valid for 90 days, allowing visitors plenty of time to explore the region and enjoy all it has to offer.

Easy to obtain: The East Africa Tourist Visa can be obtained online, making the application process quick and easy.

Overall, the East Africa Tourist Visa is a convenient, cost-effective, and flexible option for travelers looking to explore the beautiful countries of Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.

Transit Options in Kenya with the East Africa Tourist Visa

Here are some transit options in Kenya for travelers holding an East Africa Tourist Visa:

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA): Located in Nairobi, JKIA is the largest airport in Kenya and a major transit hub for East Africa. If you have a layover at JKIA, you can explore the city or visit nearby attractions like the Nairobi National Park.

Moi International Airport (MBA): Located in Mombasa, MBA is another major airport in Kenya and a popular transit point for travelers heading to Zanzibar or Tanzania. If you have a layover at MBA, you can explore the beaches and historic sites of Mombasa.

Wilson Airport: Located in Nairobi, Wilson Airport is the main domestic airport in Kenya and a hub for regional flights. If you are traveling within Kenya or to nearby countries like Tanzania or Uganda, you may have a layover at Wilson Airport.

It is important to note that the East Africa Tourist Visa is not valid for transit purposes. If you plan to leave the airport during your layover, you will need to obtain a Kenya Transit Visa, which is valid for 3 days from the planned arrival date and allows for a stay of up to 72 hours. 

How to Apply for the Kenya East Africa Tourist Visa Online

The steps to apply for the Kenya East Africa Tourist Visa online. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Visit the official website for the Kenya eVisa application.
• Create an account on the website and log in.
• Once logged in, select "Department of Immigration Services" and then "Submit Application."
• Next, choose the type of visa you want to apply for, in this case, select "Kenya East Africa Tourist Visa".
• Fill in the application form with your personal details, travel information, and passport details.
• Upload a scanned copy of your passport bio-data page and a passport photo.
• Pay the visa fee using a credit or debit card.
• Review your application carefully and submit it.
• You will receive a confirmation email with a tracking number to track the status of your application.
• Once your application is approved, you will receive the eVisa via email.

It's important to note that the Kenya East Africa Tourist Visa is valid for 90 days and allows multiple entries into Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. Additionally, make sure to bring a printed copy of your eVisa confirmation with you when traveling.

Traveling to Kenya with Children: What You Need to Know

Some important information about traveling to Kenya with children. Here are some key things you need to know:

Visa Requirements: Children under the age of 16 do not require a visa to enter Kenya. However, children over the age of 16 must have their own visa.

Passport Requirements: Children, including infants, must have their own passport to enter Kenya. The passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into the country.

Travel Consent Letter: If a child is traveling with only one parent, a legal guardian, or without their parents, they may be required to provide a travel consent letter. This letter should include details such as the purpose of the trip, the dates of travel, and the contact information of the child's parents or legal guardians.

Health Requirements: Children should have all the necessary vaccinations before traveling to Kenya. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider well in advance of travel to ensure that all necessary vaccinations are up to date.

Child-Friendly Accommodation: Kenya has a variety of child-friendly accommodation options, including resorts, lodges, and hotels. When planning your trip, be sure to research and choose accommodation that is suitable for children.

Safety Precautions: Kenya is a generally safe destination, but it's important to take safety precautions, particularly when traveling with children. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid traveling at night, and keep a close eye on your belongings.

By keeping these key things in mind, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Kenya with your children.

COVID-19 Travel Restrictions in Kenya

The travel ban in Kenya that was imposed due to COVID-19 is now lifted. Foreign nationals can easily apply for a Kenyan visa online and receive it within a few minutes.

However, passengers aged 12 and above must provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before their departure. To be considered fully vaccinated, an individual must have received all doses of the vaccine against SARS-Cov-2 at least two weeks before their travel date.

Children under the age of 12 are exempted from these requirements and are allowed to travel without presenting any proof of vaccination or negative test results.

Tanzania and Burundi May Be Added to the East Africa Tourist Visa in the Future

Tanzania and Burundi May Be Added to the East Africa Tourist Visa in the Future.

• The East African Tourist Visa currently allows tourists to visit Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda using a single visa.
• Tanzania and Burundi may be included in the visa program in the future, which would benefit tourism in the region.
• Discussions are underway regarding Tanzania's participation in the program, given its status as a popular tourist destination.
• The East African Tourist Visa simplifies travel for tourists, allowing them to explore multiple countries in the region using a single visa.

FAQ

What is the East African Tourist Visa?

The East African Tourist Visa is a single entry visa that allows tourists to visit three East African countries, namely Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, using one visa.

Who can apply for the East African Tourist Visa?

Any foreign national who wishes to visit Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda as a tourist can apply for the East African Tourist Visa.

How long is the East African Tourist Visa valid for?

The East African Tourist Visa is valid for 90 days from the date of issue.

Can I leave and re-enter the three countries on the East African Tourist Visa?

Yes, the East African Tourist Visa allows multiple entries into the three countries within its validity period.

What are the requirements for obtaining the East African Tourist Visa?

The requirements for obtaining the East African Tourist Visa include a completed application form, a passport-sized photo, a valid passport, and proof of travel arrangements, such as flight itineraries and hotel bookings. Additionally, travelers aged 12 and above must provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before departure.

Where can I apply for the East African Tourist Visa?

You can apply for the East African Tourist Visa online through the official e-visa website of the countries in the program, namely Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda.

How long does it take to process the East African Tourist Visa?

The processing time for the East African Tourist Visa is usually three working days. However, it is advisable to apply for the visa well in advance of your intended travel dates.