Find our tips on how to choose between a single-entry Kenya visa and a multiple-entry Kenya visa for your trip.
Since 2021, it is now possible to apply for a visa to Kenya directly online. But when you apply, you will have the choice between a single entry visa and a multiple entry visa. Which one you choose will depend on how you want to travel and we will explain the differences between these two visas in more detail on this page.
Single or multiple-entry visas for Kenya: key points
- The default tourist visa for Kenya is a single-entry visa
- It is possible to apply for a multiple-entry visa by paying an additional fee
- The validity of a single-entry visa is the same as that of a multiple-entry visa
- There are other types of visa for Kenya available via e-visa.
The classic visa, also known as the single-entry visa, is a travel document that allows the holder to enter Kenya only once, for a specified period of time. This type of visa is ideal for visitors planning a one-off stay, whether for tourism, business activities or a family visit. Unlike the multiple-entry visa, it does not authorize re-entry once the traveler has left the country, even if the visa's validity has not expired.
The single-entry visa is designed to meet the needs of travelers planning a single visit to Kenya within a well-defined framework. This visa is issued for a variety of reasons, including tourism, business, study or medical care. It offers a simple, accessible solution for one-off visitors.
In addition to simplifying access procedures for international travelers, the single-entry visa plays a key role in the development of tourism and economic relations. This document enables the authorities to better manage incoming flows, while making it easier to welcome visitors wishing to discover the country's natural, cultural and economic riches. It also helps reinforce security, thanks to precise control procedures.
Eligibility for the single-entry visa is broad and includes most categories of travelers. Here are the main eligible profiles:
The classic or single-entry visa for Kenya is an ideal option for travelers planning a one-off stay in this magnificent country. Whether for tourism, business or personal reasons, this visa offers a practical and efficient solution. It is designed to simplify administrative procedures and guarantee easy access to Kenya, while contributing to the country's economic and tourism growth.
The multiple-entry visa for Kenya is a travel document specially designed for people who plan to visit the country several times within a set period of time. Unlike the single-entry visa, which allows only one visit, this type of visa offers greater flexibility to frequent travelers, whether tourists, professionals or members of the diaspora. It is issued by the Kenyan government to simplify administrative procedures and encourage tourism and trade.
The multiple-entry visa is an entry permit that authorizes its holder to enter and leave Kenya as many times as necessary during its period of validity. The period of validity may vary, but is generally fixed at 6 months or 1 year, depending on the needs of the applicant. This visa is ideal for those with economic, family or personal activities requiring regular travel between Kenya and other countries.
One of the major aims of this visa is to promote tourism by facilitating repeat stays. It also strengthens economic and commercial exchanges, by reducing administrative hurdles for professionals who need to travel frequently. In addition, the visa is intended to offer a practical solution for families scattered across several countries, as well as to encourage travel by members of the Kenyan diaspora.
By facilitating these interactions, the government hopes not only to attract more visitors, but also to stimulate the local economy and foreign investment. This strategy is also aligned with Kenya's efforts to become a regional business center and tourism hub in East Africa.
Eligibility for a multiple-entry visa is based on several criteria. Here are the major categories of people who can apply for this visa:
The multiple-entry visa for Kenya is a practical and advantageous option for regular travelers. By facilitating travel, it supports the country's economic, tourism and social objectives, while meeting the varied needs of visitors. Whether you're a professional, a tourist or a member of the diaspora, this visa is designed to make your stay in Kenya simpler and more efficient.
In addition to the multiple-entry visa, you can use other types of visas if you wish to make multiple entries and exits from Kenya during your trip.
The East African visa is a three-country agreement that allows travel to Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda with a single document. It is therefore also a multiple entry visa for each of these three countries, which can also be obtained online.
The transit visa is also a type of visa for travellers who are only transiting Kenya while waiting for a connecting flight to another destination. This visa will still allow you to exit the Kenyan airport for a maximum of 72 hours. It should be noted that connecting travellers who do not leave the international zone of the airport do not need to apply for this visa.
Since 2021, it is possible to apply for a visa for Kenya, whether it is a single or multiple entry visa directly online with the e-visa procedure.
This is the easiest and fastest way to apply for a visa as you only need to fill in an online application form in a few minutes and pay the visa fee on the dedicated website. The documents you need to have in your possession at the time of application are your passport and your bank card.
Once you have applied, you will receive your visa within 8 working days. You can then take it with you on your trip to Kenya.
The choice between a single-entry and multiple-entry visa for Kenya depends on your needs and the reason for your trip. It is important to think carefully before making your choice to avoid any problems during your stay.
A single-entry visa is an ideal option if you are travelling for tourism or business reasons and do not intend to leave and return to Kenya several times during your stay. This type of visa allows you to stay in the country for a set period of time and only one entry is allowed. It is a simple and affordable option for people who do not plan to leave the country during their stay.
However, if you plan to leave and return to Kenya several times for business or other reasons, a multiple entry visa may be more appropriate. This type of visa allows you to leave and return to Kenya several times during the validity of your visa. It is important to note that multiple-entry visas are usually only available for longer periods of time and may cost more than a single-entry visa. However, they can be more convenient for people who need to leave and return to Kenya several times during their stay.
It is also important to consider the time it takes to obtain a visa. Multiple-entry visas can take longer to be approved and issued than single-entry visas, so it is important to apply for them well in advance to avoid any problems during your trip.
Adeline HARMANT
As a web writer and globetrotter with a passion for travel and tourism, I have acquired in-depth knowledge of the procedures that are essential for travellers. I help travellers to complete all the formalities required for a successful trip, particularly when it comes to obtaining a visa online. With several years' experience in this field, I'd like to offer you some valuable advice to help you discover the world with complete peace of mind.
The multiple entry visa for Kenya does not define a specific number of entries or exits from Kenya. The only rule is that the visa must be used within 3 months of issue, i.e. 90 days. During this period, you will be able to enter and leave Kenya as many times as you wish.
It is strongly recommended that you apply for a multiple-entry visa for Kenya if you wish to make a trip that includes several visits to neighbouring countries, and therefore wish to visit several countries close to Kenya. This type of visa is also recommended if you plan to make several trips to Kenya within a 3-month period, even if you return to your country of origin between each trip.
There are many websites offering online Kenya visa application forms. However, it is advisable to carefully choose the partner through which you are going to apply for a visa, particularly by assessing the speed with which the application is processed, as well as any advice and guidance given to travellers wishing to complete the application correctly and quickly.
