Skip to main content

Kenya Visa for Afghanistan Citizens 2026

e-Visa / eTA

Afghan citizens need an online Kenya eVisa (Tourist or Business) — apply at https://www.ecitizen.go.ke/; estimated total cost around USD 53 (visa USD 51 + ECitizen service USD 2); processing typically 2–4 working days; visa valid for 90 days per entry.

Guide last updated September 5, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of intended entry into Kenya and have at least one blank page for entry stamps.
  • Specific forms: Apply online only via https://www.ecitizen.go.ke/; no DS-160, no VAF forms; upload documents as prompted by the portal.
  • Financial proof: There is no mandatory proof of funds required for the eVisa; you should have enough funds for your stay, but there is no fixed amount required.
  • Accommodation and return ticket: It is recommended to have hotel bookings or an invitation letter, and proof of onward/return travel when requested, though not required to obtain the eVisa.
  • Photo spec: A recent color passport photo, 2x2 inches (51x51 mm) with a white background; image must be high-resolution and clearly show your face; no heavy editing; facial features must be recognizable; glasses should have no glare if worn.
  • Biometrics: No upfront biometrics submission is required for the online eVisa; you may be asked to provide biometrics at the port of entry if requested by immigration officers.
  • Travel health insurance: Not required by immigration for the eVisa; however it is strongly recommended to have travel health insurance for your trip.

Visa types

  • Tourist eVisa – Tourism: Official name Kenya eVisa – Tourist; Validity 90 days from issue; Max stay 90 days per visit; Entry: Single-entry; Approx fee USD 51 (visa) + USD 2 ECitizen service = USD 53; Local equivalent around KES 8,000–9,000.
  • Business eVisa – Commercial/business: Official name Kenya eVisa – Business; Validity 90 days from issue; Max stay 90 days per visit; Entry: Single-entry; Approx fee USD 51 (visa) + USD 2 service = USD 53; Local equivalent around KES 8,000–9,000.
  • Transit eVisa – Transit: Official name Kenya eVisa – Transit; Validity 3 days; Max stay 3 days; Entry: Single-entry; Approx fee USD 20 (visa) + USD 2 service = USD 22; Local equivalent around KES 3,000–4,000.
  • Student eVisa – Not available online: Kenya issues Study Permits/Student Visas via the Ministry and Department of Immigration; Fee varies; not offered as a standard online eVisa.
  • Work eVisa – Not available online: Kenya issues Work Permits and employment-related visas via the Department of Immigration; Fee varies; not offered as a standard online eVisa.

Application process

  • How to apply online: Go to https://www.ecitizen.go.ke/ and sign in or create an account.
  • Select Kenya eVisa and choose the category (Tourist or Business).
  • Complete the online application form with your personal details, travel dates, passport information, and upload required documents (biographical passport page scan, recent photo, travel itinerary; invitation letter for Business if applicable).
  • Pay the visa fee (USD 51) plus the ECitizen service fee (USD 2) using a credit or debit card.
  • Submit the application; you will receive the eVisa by email and/or in your ECitizen account within 2–4 working days.
  • Print the approved eVisa and carry it with your passport to Kenya; at entry you must present both the eVisa printout and your passport.
  • Biometrics: There is no upfront biometrics submission for the online eVisa; border officers may request biometric verification if needed.
  • If you are not eligible for online eVisa, you may need to contact the nearest Kenyan embassy/consulate for an alternative visa option.

Fees & processing time

  • Visa fee: Tourist eVisa USD 51; Business eVisa USD 51; Transit eVisa USD 20.
  • ECitizen service fee: USD 2 (non-refundable).
  • Total estimated cost: Tourist/Business around USD 53 total; Transit around USD 22 total.
  • Local currency: approximate equivalents depend on the current exchange rate; typically around KES 8,000–9,000 for Tourist/Business and around KES 3,000–4,000 for Transit when using USD figures above.
  • VFS/BLS service fees: Not applicable for online eVisa; if a sticker visa is pursued via a Kenyan embassy/consulate, separate embassy processing fees may apply.
  • Standard processing time: 2–4 working days after submission.
  • Express/priority option: Not offered for online eVisa through ECitizen; check with a Kenyan embassy/consulate for any urgent handling possibilities and associated fees.

Tips for Afghanistan travelers

  • Apply well in advance: While typical processing is 2–4 days, it is prudent to apply at least 14 days before travel to account for any delays or document issues.
  • Common rejection reasons for Afghanistan applicants: Incomplete or mismatched data (spelling in passport vs. application), passport validity less than 6 months, photo not meeting specifications (background, glare, or size issues), inconsistent travel plans or lack of supporting documentation, or security/vetting concerns.
  • VFS/BLS vs direct embassy application: For Kenya, the online eVisa via ECitizen is the standard route for eligible applicants; if online access is not possible or you are not eligible, contact the nearest Kenyan embassy or consulate to understand alternatives.
  • Travel advisories: Always check the latest travel advisories from Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (https://www.mfa.go.ke/) and ensure you comply with any current entry requirements; verify your own country’s travel advisories as well.
  • Extension options inside Kenya: If you need to extend your stay, apply for a visa extension with the Kenya Department of Immigration Services (DIS) before your current visa expires; extensions are granted at the discretion of Kenyan authorities and may involve fees and an interview; typical extension can be up to 90 days per extension, with overall stay subject to the immigration rules.

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.