Kenya entry requirements for China passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 20, 2026·View sources
Visa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Chinese passport holders need a visa to enter Kenya. Apply online for an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) before you travel. This rule applies from 2026.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Apply online before travel | Apply for a Kenya eVisa at the official eTA portal. Processing takes 2–5 business days, so apply at least a week before departure. The eVisa is valid for single entry and allows up to 90 days stay.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Must have at least 6 months validity | Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Kenya. Airlines check this at check-in — if your passport expires sooner, you will be denied boarding. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of onward travel | Immigration officers at JKIA routinely ask for a return or onward ticket. Have a printed or digital copy of your flight itinerary ready. Without one, you may be refused entry. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host letter | Carry a printed hotel reservation or a letter from your host with their address and phone number. Immigration may ask for it, especially if you arrive without a clear itinerary. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Show you can support yourself | Have bank statements or a credit card showing at least $500 USD available for your stay. Officers rarely ask, but if you look underprepared, they can deny entry. | Recommended |
Apply for eTA Well in Advance
Processing times can vary. Do not wait until the last minute. Apply at least 7 days before your departure to avoid delays.
Keep Your Documents Handy
Immigration officers at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport may ask to see your return ticket and hotel booking. Have them ready on your phone or printed.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for eTA Online
Go to the official eTA Kenya website (etakenya.go.ke) and complete the online application. You'll need your passport details, travel dates, and accommodation info. Pay the fee and submit. Approval usually takes a few days.
2
Pack Your Documents
Print or save digital copies of your eTA approval, passport, return ticket, and hotel booking. Keep them easily accessible in your carry-on.
3
Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO)
At immigration, present your passport and eTA approval. The officer may ask for your return ticket and hotel booking. Answer questions clearly. The process usually takes 15-30 minutes.
4
Collect Your Luggage and Exit
After immigration, proceed to baggage claim, then customs. If you have nothing to declare, use the green channel. Exit into the arrivals hall.
Download Kenya Entry Checklist
PDF · China Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 20, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa single entry
Max stay90 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$50 USD
Standard visa for tourism; apply online or on arrival.
Tourist visa multiple entry
Max stay90 days per visit
Validity6 months from issue
Cost$100 USD
Ideal for multiple trips; must be used within validity.
Long-stay visa (e.g., work or student)
Max stayVaries by permit
ValidityUp to 2 years
CostVaries (e.g., work permit ~$500 USD)
Requires employer or school sponsorship; apply through Kenyan embassy.
work visa
Work Permit (Class D)
Up to 2 years, renewable
~$500 USD application fee
For foreign nationals employed by a Kenyan company. Requires employer sponsorship and proof of qualifications. Allows long-term stay and work.
student visa
Student Pass
Duration of course, renewable
~$150 USD
For enrolled students at recognized Kenyan institutions. Requires admission letter and proof of funds. Allows part-time work with permission.
investor visa
Investor Permit (Class I)
Up to 3 years, renewable
~$2,000 USD
For individuals investing at least $100,000 in Kenya. Requires business plan and proof of investment. Allows residence and business activities.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tourist visa (single entry)Standard fee for single-entry tourist visa, payable online or on arrival. | $50 USD (approx. 6,500 KES) |
| Tourist visa (multiple entry)Allows multiple entries within validity period. | $100 USD (approx. 13,000 KES) |
| Overstay fine per dayNo maximum cap specified; avoid overstay. | $50 USD per day (approx. 6,500 KES) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete documents20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Kenya
No transit visa needed
China passport holders transiting through Kenya do not need a transit visa if staying airside and not passing through immigration. However, if leaving the airport or staying overnight, a visa is required.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of a valid visa for Kenya or a third country may transit without visa for up to 24 hours airside.
Transit hubsJomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) · Moi International Airport (MBA)
Health & vaccines for Kenya
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission; certificate must be presented.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio, etc.)EssentialRabiesConsiderCholeraConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
High risk throughout Kenya, especially in rural areas; prophylaxis recommended.
Dengue feverModerate risk
Occurs in urban and semi-urban areas; mosquito avoidance advised.
ChikungunyaModerate risk
Transmitted by mosquitoes; outbreaks occur sporadically.
Malaria risk: high
High risk nationwide, especially in rural areas. Prophylaxis (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline) recommended for all travellers.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Nairobi
Department of Immigration Services Headquarters
Nyayo House, Kenyatta Avenue, Nairobi
Mon–Fri 08:00–17:00
Main office for visa extensions and permits; bring passport, photos, and fee.
Mombasa
Mombasa Immigration Office
Mombasa Immigration Office, Mombasa
Mon–Fri 08:00–17:00
Handles extensions for coastal visitors; arrive early to avoid queues.
Practical information for CN travellers
Country basics
CapitalNairobi
LanguageSwahili, English
Driving sideLeft-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS license valid for up to 90 days with IDP.
Money
CurrencyKenyan Shilling (KES)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 129.33 KES
Time zone
Local timeUTC+3
vs New York+8h (EST) / +7h (EDT)
vs Los Angeles+11h (PST) / +10h (PDT)
Electricity
Voltage240V / 50Hz
Plug types
GType G (UK-style) — US plugs do not fit. Bring a UK/universal adapter.
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Do not drink tap water. Use sealed bottled water.
Emergency numbers
Nearby destinations you can also visit
Countries close to Kenya — with your same passport.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Chinese passport holders must obtain an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) before traveling to Kenya. Apply online at etakenya.go.ke.
Processing typically takes 2-3 business days, but can take longer during peak periods. Apply at least a week before your trip to be safe.
The eTA fee is approximately $30 USD (around 3,900 KES). Payment is made online during the application process.
No, the eTA does not allow extensions. You must leave Kenya before your authorized stay expires. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a different visa type before your current one expires.
You will likely be denied boarding by your airline. Kenya does not offer visa on arrival for Chinese passport holders. You must have an approved eTA before you fly.
Kenya requires proof of yellow fever vaccination if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. Check the latest health requirements before travel.
Yes, a digital copy on your phone is accepted. However, having a printed backup is recommended in case your phone battery dies or you have connectivity issues.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 20, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.