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Central African Republic Visa for Kenya Citizens 2026

Visa Required

Kenyan citizens need a visa before traveling to the Central African Republic, obtained as a sticker visa through the nearest CAR embassy or consulate; fees run roughly USD 150-200 with processing of about 5-10 business days.

Guide last updated September 24, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months from date of entry, with at least 2 blank pages
  • Two recent passport-style photos, white background
  • Completed visa application form from the embassy/consulate
  • Letter of invitation from a host or sponsoring organization in the Central African Republic
  • Proof of accommodation and travel itinerary
  • Proof of sufficient funds for the trip
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate (mandatory)
  • Biometrics: fingerprints may be taken at the embassy or on arrival depending on the post
  • Travel health insurance: recommended, sometimes requested by the embassy

Visa types

  • Tourist visa: single entry, validity typically 1-3 months from issue, max stay 30-90 days, fee approx. USD 150
  • Business visa: single or multiple entry, requires an invitation letter from a CAR-based company, fee approx. USD 180-200
  • Transit visa: for travelers passing through, shorter validity, fee approx. USD 80-100

How to apply

  • The Central African Republic has no embassy in Kenya, so Kenyan applicants typically apply through the nearest CAR mission (commonly in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, or via honorary consular arrangements) or through a facilitating travel agent
  • Submit the application form, photos, passport, invitation letter and yellow fever certificate in person or by courier to the chosen mission
  • Fees are paid in cash or by bank transfer at the time of submission (USD 150-200 depending on visa type)
  • Standard processing takes about 5-10 business days; allow extra time for postal/courier delivery if applying through a non-Kenya-based mission
  • On approval, the visa sticker is affixed to the passport, which is returned by courier or in person

Fees & processing time

  • Tourist visa fee: approx. USD 150
  • Business visa fee: approx. USD 180-200
  • Courier/facilitation fee if using a travel agent to submit to a mission outside Kenya: additional USD 30-60
  • Standard processing: 5-10 business days once the application is received by the mission
  • No widely available express service; plan well ahead given the lack of a local embassy

Tips for Kenya travelers

  • Start the process at least 3-4 weeks before travel to account for the absence of a CAR embassy in Kenya and the need to route the application through another country
  • Secure a solid invitation letter early - missing or vague invitation letters are the most common reason for delay or refusal
  • Confirm current security and travel advisories for CAR before finalizing travel plans, as parts of the country have ongoing instability
  • Keep the yellow fever certificate and visa sticker easily accessible, as both are checked on arrival
  • If no visa can be arranged before travel, check whether the specific point of entry allows an emergency visa on arrival for pre-approved cases - this is not guaranteed and should not be relied upon

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.