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Embassies · Kenya

🇰🇪 Kenya Embassy & Application Centre

Submission process, processing times, document requirements, and flight reservation guidance for Kenya visa applications.

Where to apply

Issuing authority: Department of Immigration Services

Embassy/consulate location: Pretoria

Application route: Online eTA portal

Processing time: 3 business days

Government fee: US$34 (approximate, varies by visa type)

eTA required from 2024, replacing visa-free entry. Apply at etakenya.go.ke.

Submission checklist

Whether you submit at the Pretoria embassy directly, via Online eTA portal, or online, the file you assemble follows a similar pattern:

  1. Passport with 6+ months validity — bio page copy and any prior visas.
  2. Completed application form — typed, signed, with recent passport-size photo attached.
  3. Flight reservation — verifiable PNR showing entry to Kenya on a real airline route, with return/onward dates aligned to your stated visit length.
  4. Accommodation proof — hotel bookings, host invitation, or rental agreement for the full stay.
  5. Financial documents — bank statements for the last 3-6 months showing sufficient funds.
  6. Travel insurance — most embassies require coverage for the full duration.
  7. Day-by-day itinerary — what you plan to do, especially for tourist applications.
  8. Letter of employment or proof of ties — to demonstrate you'll return.

Flight reservation requirements specific to Kenya

South African passport holders typically don't need a pre-issued visa for Kenya. However:

  • Airlines enforce onward-travel proof at boarding. Without a verifiable return flight reservation, you'll be denied boarding at NBO.
  • Immigration at NBO may also request proof of onward travel.
  • A 48-hour or 7-day reservation suffices for boarding purposes — you don't need long validity for visa-free entries.