Visa requirements

Kenya

General visa requirements for travelling to Kenya. These policies apply to all nationalities unless a country-specific policy exists.

Have a specific passport country? Check your specific route.

Student visa (Student Pass)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

• Maximum stay: 365 days
• Processing time: 14-30 business days
• Fee: $100 USD (KES 5,000)
• Validity: Duration of study program (renewable)
• Entry: Multiple entry

Eligibility

• Purpose of visit

  Must be admitted to an accredited educational or training institution in Kenya.

  Includes

  • Study at accredited Kenyan institution
• Criminal record

  Applicants over 18 years must provide a police clearance certificate from their country of origin or from the Kenya Police Service if already resident in Kenya.

Documents you need

• Passport

  Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6

• Photo

  Count: 2; Specifications: Recent passport-size colour photographs

• Admission letter

  Must be notarized: No; Must be original: Yes; Must show program dates: Yes

• Police clearance

  Countries required: Country of origin (for applicants over 18 years); Validity months: 6

• Application form

  Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

  Form name: Form 30 - Student Pass Application; Form url: https://fns.immigration.go.ke

• Cover letter

  Explain the purpose of travel, travel dates, who will pay, and why you will leave before the visa or permission expires.

• Academic transcript

  Provide academic records for the course, qualification or training route.

  Must be notarized: Yes; Must be translated: No

How to apply

1. Online application

   Create an account on the Government of Kenya single sign-in portal (ecitizen.go.ke) to access the eFNS Portal. Complete Form 30 which must be filled, signed, and stamped by the institution's authorized personnel.

2. Document gathering

   Gather required documents: valid passport, 2 passport photos, admission letter from institution, police clearance certificate (if over 18), certified academic certificates, and a cover letter from the institution addressed to the Director of Immigration Services.

3. Fee payment

   Pay the student pass fee of KES 5,000 (approximately $100 USD). EAC nationals are exempt from this fee.

4. Document submission

   Submit the completed application with all supporting documents through the eFNS online portal.

5. Processing wait

   Wait for the student pass to be processed. Processing typically takes 14-30 business days.

6. Visa collection

   Once approved, collect the student pass from the Directorate of Immigration Services or receive it electronically.

• Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

This information is provided for general guidance only. Visa requirements can change frequently and may vary by nationality. Always verify with the official embassy or consulate before making travel plans. Contact [email protected] for assistance.