Single-Entry Visa Transit Visa Process on e-Citizen

ByWavelink

Kenya’s e-Citizen platform simplifies Single-Entry Visa and Transit Visa applications for travelers worldwide, replacing paperwork with a fully digital process. These visas suit tourists, business visitors, or those transiting through Kenya (e.g., JKIA layovers), processed via immigration.ecitizen.go.ke with approvals in 2-7 days.

Key Differences: Single-Entry vs. Transit Visa

Single-Entry Visa (KES 6,599/USD 50) allows one stay up to 90 days for tourism, business, or visits—ideal for safaris or conferences. Requires itinerary proof. Transit Visa (KES 3,000/USD 30) permits 7-day layovers without entering Kenya proper, mandatory for visa nationals changing flights. Both need passports valid 6+ months, photos, and payments via card. Exemptions apply to EAC citizens and select nationalities.

Prerequisites and Documents

Prepare:

  • Passport scan (bio-data page).

  • Passport photo (500x500px, white background).

  • Email/phone for OTP.

  • Travel itinerary (flights/hotels).

  • Invitation letter (business/transit).

  • Payment card (Visa/Mastercard—no M-Pesa for visitors).

Register as “Visitor” on ecitizen.go.ke first.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

Step 1: Create e-Citizen Account

Go to ecitizen.go.ke > “Register” > “Visitor.” Enter passport number, name, DOB, email. Verify via email link. Upload photo.

Step 2: Access Immigration Services

Log in > Department of Immigration > “Submit Application.” Select “Kenyan Visa” > Choose Single Entry or Transit. Read instructions—reject incomplete apps.​

Step 3: Fill Application Form

Enter personal details, travel purpose, Kenyan address (hotel/host). Upload passport scan, photo, itinerary. For transit: specify flight details, layover <7 days. Parents apply for minors.

Step 4: Review and Pay

Preview form. Pay online (USD non-refundable). Standard: 2-3 days; expedited USD 130 (24 hours). Track status in dashboard.​​

Step 5: Download and Print e-Visa

Approval emails (check spam). Log in > Download PDF. Print colored copy for immigration at JKIA/Jomo Kenyatta or borders. Present with passport—digital scans accepted post-scan.

Visa Type Validity Cost (USD) Processing Best For ​
Single-Entry 90 days 50 2-7 days Tourism/Business
Transit 7 days 30 2-3 days Airport layovers

Common Challenges and Solutions

Rejections: Incomplete docs—double-check uploads (<5MB). Payment fails: Use stable Wi-Fi, non-VPN. Delays: Peak seasons (July-Dec)—apply 14 days early. No status update? Email eta@immigration.go.ke. Transit without visa risks denial at entry.

Post-Approval Tips

Carry printed e-Visa + return ticket. Overstay fines: USD 30/day. Extend via e-Citizen if needed. ETA replaced old e-Visa in 2024—same portal.

Why e-Citizen Beats Embassies

Zero queues, global access, 90% approval rate. Nairobi arrivals scan seamlessly. Track via app for real-time alerts.

Master the Single-Entry Visa Transit Visa process on e-Citizen for hassle-free Kenya entry. Start today—your adventure awaits!

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