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:
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Valid passport (6+ months validity).
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Form 30 (filled online, stamped by institution).
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Institution cover letter detailing course/duration.
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Sponsor commitment letter + passport copy.
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Proof of funds (bank statements).
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Police clearance (18+ from origin country).
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Two passport photos.
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Academic certificates/transcripts.
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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.
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
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Start 3 months pre-intake.
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Use Chrome; stable internet.
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Self-sponsor: 3-month bank statements >KES 200,000.
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Institutions: Pre-verify on eFNS.
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Avoid agents—direct saves KES 20,000.
Master these Student Pass application steps on e-Citizen for seamless study in Kenya. Enroll worry-free!