Student Pass application Process on e-Citizen

ByWavelink

The Student Pass, Kenya’s student visa for international students, enables legal study at accredited institutions like universities and TVET colleges. Applied via the eFNS portal (fns.immigration.go.ke) integrated with e-Citizen, this digital process simplifies submissions for new, renewal, research, or internship passes, cutting processing to 2-3 months.

Who Needs a Student Pass?

Non-Kenyans aged 18+ pursuing full-time courses require it—under 18s need parental consent. Covers degree, diploma, certificate programs, or research. Self-sponsored or institution-backed applicants must prove funds and enrollment. Nairobi hosts most applicants at Nyayo House for endorsement.

Key Requirements

Gather these before starting:

  • Valid passport (6+ months validity).

  • Form 30 (filled online, stamped by institution).

  • Institution cover letter detailing course/duration.

  • Sponsor commitment letter + passport copy.

  • Proof of funds (bank statements).

  • Police clearance (18+ from origin country).

  • Two passport photos.

  • Academic certificates/transcripts.

  • For minors: Birth certificate, parental consent.

Renewals add prior pass copy and progress reports. Translate foreign docs to English.​

Step-by-Step Application Guide

Step 1: Create e-Citizen/eFNS Account

Visit ecitizen.go.ke or fns.immigration.go.ke. Register with email, phone, ID/passport. Verify OTP. Log in under Immigration Services > Student Pass.

Step 2: Fill Form 30 Online

Select “New/Renewal Student Pass.” Enter biodata, course details, sponsor info. Institution authorizes via login. Generate printable Form 30.

Step 3: Upload Documents

Scan/upload all requirements (PDF/JPG, <5MB each). Checklist auto-generates—download. Pay fees: KES 100,000 new (1 year), KES 50,000 renewal.​

Step 4: Submit and Track

Review, submit. Receive approval email (2-4 weeks minors; 1-3 months adults). Pay via M-Pesa within 30 days. Print pass.​

Requirement New Application Renewal Notes ​
Form 30 Required Required Institution-stamped
Cover Letter Course/duration Progress report From school
Police Clearance 18+ only If expired Country of origin
Fees KES 100,500 KES 50,500 e-Citizen/M-Pesa
Processing 2-12 weeks 4-8 weeks Varies by verification

Post-Approval Steps

Enter Kenya on eTA (etakenya.go.ke). Visit Nyayo House, Nairobi with printed pass, passport, photos for endorsement (5-10 days). Collect stamped passport. Report address changes within 7 days.​

Common Challenges and Solutions

Rejections? Incomplete docs—resubmit via portal. Delays? Track status online; email support. No institution login? Contact registrar. Minors need guardian in Kenya.​

Tips for Success

  • Start 3 months pre-intake.

  • Use Chrome; stable internet.

  • Self-sponsor: 3-month bank statements >KES 200,000.

  • Institutions: Pre-verify on eFNS.

  • Avoid agents—direct saves KES 20,000.

Master these Student Pass application steps on e-Citizen for seamless study in Kenya. Enroll worry-free!

RELATED UPDATES