Kenya Visa For Indians

Kenya, also known as a Safari Lover’s Paradise, is an East African gem that attracts Indian tourists all year round. From stunning landscapes, vibrant culture and breathtaking views to an unforgettable safari experience and iconic wildlife, Kenya has a lot to offer.

To visit and explore Kenya's beauty and wildlife diversity, you must apply for and obtain a valid Kenya tourist visa from India to embark on this memorable journey. In addition to tourism, you can also visit the country for work, education and business activities by applying for a Kenya visa for Indian citizens in the right category.

For added peace of mind, secure your trip with comprehensive travel insurance for Kenya from Reliance General Insurance. In this guide, we will explore the different visa categories and application processes to help you plan your next trip.

Is a Kenya Visa for Indians Mandatory?

No, to enter and explore this beautiful country, travellers do not have to obtain a valid visa for Indians in Kenya. However, you must apply for an eTA prior to your travel dates. So, if you’re asking, “Is Kenya visa-free for Indians?” – It isn’t, you still need some form of travel authorisation to visit.

You can visit Kenya for different purposes. If you want to visit Kenya for a longer duration for any purpose other than tourism, you must assess and apply for the right kind of visa to ensure you get permission to enter the country without any hassle.

Remember that the duration of your stay and the purpose of your visit are the only ways to determine which visa time you must apply for in Kenya.

Is There a Kenya Visa-On-Arrival for Indians?

No, at present, there is no Kenya Indian visa on arrival. If you wish to visit the country, you must apply for a Kenya visit visa from India. This visa will allow you to enjoy the breathtaking sights without any hassle.

However, if you wish to study or work in Kenya, you must apply for a work or study visa and ensure you meet the Kenya work visa requirements for Indian citizens. Any gap in your application can result in instant visa rejection.

Types of Kenya Visas for Indians

Need for Reliance Travel Insurance for Kenya Visa

Highly Recommended by Immigration Authorities:

Travel insurance is not a strict requirement for Kenya. Thus, when applying for a Kenya visa for Indians, you do not have to submit proof of travel insurance to be eligible.

However, even without this mandate, you are advised to secure your trip to Kenya with this financial safety net for added peace of mind. Reliance General offers comprehensive travel insurance for Kenya.

Extensive Travel Coverage

Our travel plans offer extensive coverage for a wide range of unforeseen circumstances that can otherwise leave you with a significant financial burden. In addition to this financial protection, here are some other reasons why you must buy insurance for Kenya travel from Reliance General.

• Support for loss of baggage.
• Financial assistance to cover legal and compensatory expenses in case of any third-party liability when in Kenya.
• Necessary support to obtain a duplicate passport if you lose your passport in Kenya.

Quick and Simple Online Services

Buy and claim travel plans online at affordable rates from Reliance General Insurance. We offer an easy policy extension that will cover you until the end of your trip, even if you plan to extend it. Other services we offer include –

• Cashless hospitalisation with a 100% claim settlement ratio*.
• 24/7 customer support for extensive medical coverage in case of emergencies and accidents.

Features of Kenya Visa for Indians

• E-Visa- Kenya e-visa is a semi-automated system that allows Indian visitors to explore Kenya. It is called an eTA and is mandatory for all travellers. It has a quick and straightforward online process for maximum convenience.
• Easy Tracking- You can easily track your visa application status for eTA on the official website to get a real-time update on your visa. This will allow you to plan your trip accordingly.
• Mandatory Requirements- You must comply with the mandatory Kenya visa requirements for Indian citizens to be eligible. The list includes a valid passport, return ticket, proof of accommodation, passport-size photographs, and proof of funds.
• Visa Entries- The eTA allows a single entry to Kenya. If you wish to visit Kenya for business purposes, you can also obtain a multi-entry visa. However, before you apply, check the additional visa requirements to submit the right application.
• Processing Time- The processing time to obtain an eTA is only 3-5 days, making it a quick and easy way to obtain the visa and plan your trip to Kenya.
• Visa Fees- The fee to obtain an eTA is US$30. However, other application or visa-related fees may be combined with it for the final payment. Make sure you pay the visa fee on time while filing the visa application.

Who Should Apply for a Kenya Visa for Indians?

• Tourists- Indians who want to visit Kenya for tourism or other short-trip purposes must apply for a valid Kenya tourist visa from India.
• Students- Indians who want to pursue higher education in Kenya must apply for a valid student visa from India.
• Skilled Workers- Skilled Indians who want to work with a Kenyan employer must apply for a valid Kenya work visa for Indian citizens.
• Business Activities- Indians who want to conduct short-term business activities such as meetings, conferences, etc., must apply for a Kenya visit visa from India.

Factors You Must Know When Applying for a Kenya Visa for Indians

• Type of Visa- To increase your chances of visa approval, you must check the different types of visas to find the right Kenya visa for Indians and assess the specific Kenya e-visa requirements for Indian citizens.
• Validity of the Passport- You must have a valid passport with a validity of at least 6 months and 2 blank pages. This is a mandatory requirement for all types of visa applications.
• Visa Extension and Validity- An eTA is valid for 30 days for a single entry. Depending on the type of visa you apply for, you might be eligible for a visa extension. However, check for the same beforehand to plan your trip better.
• Bank Balance- You must have sufficient funds in your bank account to cover all your day-to-day expenses when in Kenya. This is also one of the crucial Kenya visa requirements for Indians.
• Accommodation- Proof of accommodation via confirmed hotel, Airbnb or hostel bookings is mandatory. If you plan to stay at a friend’s or relative’s house, you need to submit an invitation letter from them to get visa approval.
• Visa Fee Refunds- Once you pay the Kenya visa cost for Indians, the fee is not refundable, regardless of whether your visa is approved or not. Thus, you must prepare well and provide accurate information in your visa application.
• Confirmed Tickets- A return ticket is an important criterion for your Kenya visa application. You must have a confirmed return ticket when applying for the visa, as it informs the authorities about your intent to leave the country after your trip.

Eligibility Criteria for Kenya Visa for Indians

• The applicant must be an Indian national only.
• The applicant must have a valid passport.
• The applicant must have proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses in Kenya.
• The applicant must be medically fit to travel.
• The applicant must have all the necessary supporting documents to obtain the required visa.
• The applicant must have a clear itinerary.
• The applicant must present a confirmed return ticket.

How to Apply for a Kenya Visa for Indians?

• Step 1 - Visit the official Kenya eTA website.
• Step 2 - On the homepage, select “Apply Now”.
• Step 3 - Next, click on “My Device” and then select “Tourists and Visitors”.
• Step 4 - To proceed, cross-check all required documents and then select “Continue”.
• Step 5 - On the next page, agree to the terms and conditions and select “Continue”.
• Step 6 - Next, choose the “Individual” or “Group” application option and add your country of residence as “India” before clicking on “Continue.”
  
• Step 7 - Upload all the requested documents in PDF one by one, and then click “Confirm” to proceed to payment.
• Step 8 - Make the payment for submission. Upon approval, you will receive your eTA at your registered email address.  

Kenya Visa Fees for Indians

*Note: The Kenya visa price for Indians is subject to change at the embassy’s discretion. These fees are as of November 2024. To get the latest information about the fee structure, visit the official website.

Kenya Visa for Indians Documents Required 

For eTA

• A valid passport
• Proof of accommodation
• 1 clear passport-size photograph
• Complete contact details
• Trip dates - arrival and departure
• Cards for payment

Kenya Tourist Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens

• A completed and processed eTA
• A valid passport with a validity of at least six months from the date of departure from Kenya
• 2 blank pages on your current passport
• A clear travel itinerary highlighting your planned trip and places you wish to explore
• Proof of accommodation - hotel bookings, Airbnb receipts, hostel bookings, etc.
• Confirmed return ticket from Kenya
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate

Additional Kenya Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens (Purpose-Based)

• A confirmed appointment letter from a Kenyan employer (work)
• An admission letter (student)
• Proof of funds - payslips, bank statements, ITR for the last 3 years, etc. (work)
• Business registration letter (business/visit)
• Invitation letter from Kenyan citizens (visiting family)
• Conference or meeting invitation (short visit)
• Government IDs of the traveller(s) (short visit/visiting family)

Covid-19 Guidelines for Kenya Travel Visa from India

Currently, Kenya has no strict COVID-19 guidelines and regulations. However, you must obtain a yellow fever vaccination certificate at least four weeks before your travel dates. In addition, follow these simple tips to ensure a safe trip.

• Keep your surroundings clean.
• Avoid crowded places to reduce the risk of airborne diseases.
• Do not leave your food and drinks unattended.
• Avoid eating and drinking from local vendors that look unhygienic.
• Before your travel dates, check for any new guidelines to ensure compliance.
• Get all the required vaccination certificates ready.
• Secure your medical health and wellness with travel insurance for Kenya.

What is the Kenya Visa Processing Time for Indian Citizens?

The processing time for a Kenya visa for Indians is 3-5 days maximum. However, it is recommended that you apply for your Kenya e-visa for Indian citizens called eTA at least 1-2 months in advance.

Another important thing to remember is that obtaining an eTA does not guarantee your entry to Kenya. You must obtain an eTA as a prerequisite for your entry. After you arrive at the Kenya airport, your eligibility will be evaluated, and your entry will be granted.

How to Track a Kenya Visa for an Indian Passport?

To track your Kenya visa for Indians, here is a simple process to follow.

• Step 1 - Visit the official Kenya eTA website.
• Step 2 - On the home page, find and select “Check your Application”.
• Step 3 - Add your passport number, date of birth, and visa application reference number.
• Step 4 - Once done, click on “Check Status”.
• Step 5 - Your Kenya e-visa for Indians application status will appear on your screen.

Common Reasons for Kenya Visa Rejections and How to Avoid Them

List of Common Reasons for Rejection

• Incomplete or incorrect information on the application form.
• Incorrect or incomplete submission of necessary supporting documents.
• Non-payment of visa fee.
• No confirmation of return flight booking.
• No proof of accommodation.
• Insufficient funds in your bank account.
• Past criminal history in India.
• Application submission for the wrong visa.
• Applying for the visa on time.

Tips to Avoid Rejections

• Assess the right type of visa category based on the duration of your trip and the purpose of your visit.
• Enter the right information in your visa application form.
• Collect all the necessary visa application-related documents beforehand to ensure timely submission without any gaps.
• Maintain sufficient funds in your bank account to cover your expenses throughout your stay in Kenya.
• Book your accommodation in Kenya before applying for the required Kenya visa for Indians.
• Apply for the visa at least 2 months before your planned dates to have ample Kenya visa processing time for Indian citizens.
• Ensure you pay the visa fee on time to avoid unexpected delays and rejections.

What is the Validity of a Kenya Visa for Indians?

Kenya Visa Renewal Process for Indian Citizens 

Indians who have a Kenya tourist visa from India via an eTA get a visitor’s pass issued when they arrive in Kenya. If you wish to extend your stay beyond the permitted 90 days, you need to follow the steps below -

• Step 1 - Visit the official website ​of the Government of Kenya Single Sign On Portal.
• Step 2 - Create an account and use the same credentials to log in to the eFNS portal.
• Step 3 - Once you log in, go to “Apply Now” and then select “Submit Applications”.
• Step 4 - Next, click on the “Foreign National” tab.
• Step 5 - Complete the application and present it at the Immigration Counter at Nyayo House in Nairobi for final processing.
• Step 6 - Your application will be reviewed, and you will receive an email about the progress of your extension application.

Things To Know About Kenya

Best Time to Visit 

The best time to visit Kenya depends on your purpose of visit and the sights to see in Kenya on your list.

• If you are planning a trip to explore wildlife safaris, December until March is a great time to book.
• For proper animal sightings, January and February are the perfect months to book your trip, as they are hot and dry.
• The best time to visit Ken is July to October if you want to witness the Great Migration of wildlife.
• If you are looking for the cheapest time to visit Kenya, March to May is the best month. It is less crowded, so you’ll have an easier time navigating places worth visiting in Kenya. Also, prices for flights and accommodations are very low.

Safety Tips

• Do not travel alone at night to avoid unnecessary attention.
• Keep your belongings, especially cash and passport, in a safe place instead of carrying them everywhere.
• When in crowded places, keep your bag close to you to avoid petty theft.
• Respect the local customs and laws to avoid hefty fines.
• Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
• Flu and viruses are common in Kenya, so stay safe and wear a mask whenever necessary to avoid airborne diseases.

Must-Try Food in Kenya

• Pilau- A rice dish cooked with chicken or meat and a delicious broth.
• Mutura- A sausage made of blood and meat and seasoned with chillies, garlic and ginger.
• Ugali- A dough-like dish made of flour and boiling water to compliment your soups and stews.
• Kuku Paka- A chicken curry.
• Mandazi- An African doughnut made using coconut milk and dough.

Emergency Contacts

Public Transportation

Kenya offers a range of convenient public transportation options. To explore the country on a budget, you can opt for short-trip or long-trip buses, trains, minibuses, motorcycle taxis, or cabs. City buses such as Citi Hoppa and trains like Madaraka Express are very popular among travellers.

Fun Facts

• Hunting is illegal in Kenya.
• The official language of Kenya is Swahili, but there are 68 other languages in the country.
• Kenya is one of the largest coffee exporters in the world.
• Kenya is home to around 43 different tribes, with the Maasai community being the most dominant.
• Kenya is home to the BIG 5 - Cape buffalos, lions, leopards, and African elephants.

Best Places to Visit in Kenya

FAQs About Kenya Visa for Indians

• Is travel insurance for Kenya mandatory?

  No, travel insurance is not mandatory for your trip to Kenya. However, Kenya is prone to different viral infections. Thus, given the country's health risks and the probability of unforeseen health emergencies during your travel, securing your trip with a travel insurance plan is recommended.

  Reliance General offers complete online convenience for buying a policy or filing a claim. Moreover, we have a 100% claim settlement ratio, ensuring you benefit from quick and efficient claims.

• Why is a return ticket compulsory for a Kenya tourist visa for Indians?

  A return ticket is compulsory for any Kenya visa because it highlights your clear intent to leave Kenya once your trip is over. Without a return ticket, the authorities will reject your application and deny entry.

• Are there any photo specifications for the Kenya visa process for Indian citizens?

  Your photograph must be on a white background, with at least 80% of the image covered by your face. Moreover, the size should be 5.5cm x 5.5 cm, reflecting your skin tone. Lastly, the photograph should not be older than 6 months from the date of application submission.

• Can you give me some tips to ensure my visa application is approved?
  • Enter the correct information on your visa application form.
  • Upload the right supporting documents with your form, ensuring all the information on your documents matches the details on your application form.
  • Apply at least a month before your travel dates.
  • Book your accommodation beforehand.
  • Maintain funds in your bank account.
  • Ensure you have no past criminal history in India.
• Can I extend my travel insurance coverage if I extend my trip?

  Yes, if you buy a travel insurance plan from Reliance General, you can easily extend its coverage by submitting an Extension and Good Health Declaration form.

• What can I do if my eTA is denied?

  If your eTA application is denied for some reason, you must write an email to etakenya@immigration.go.ke, clearly mentioning the situation and requesting additional information for denial.

Disclaimers:

*T&C Apply. For more details on risk factors, terms conditions, brochure, and exclusions, please read the policy wording and CIS carefully before concluding a sale.

Details mentioned here are for Reliance Travel Care Policy, UIN: RELTIOP08002V010708.  Sum Insured: The mentioned Sum insured amount is applicable only under Reliance Travel Care Policy – Individual – Platinum Plan. Total loss of checked baggage: Maximum amount payable per checked-in baggage in case more than one bag has been checked in, is 50% (100% for only one checked-in baggage) of applicable sum insured and per item in baggage maximum 10%.

Claim Settlement Ratio: This is the overall claim settlement ratio for FY 2023-24 without claim outstanding at the start of the financial year as per public disclosure of Reliance General Insurance Co. Ltd.

Premium: The premium mentioned is excluding taxes for a medical sum insured of $25,000 for an Individual of 20 years on an Asia trip of 4 days. This is applicable for the Asia plan only.