Kenya entry requirements for China passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed August 5, 2026·View sources
eVisa 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.
Apply for Kenya eVisaElectronic Travel Authorization — replaced visa on arrival in 2024.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Kenya e-VisaYou must have an approved e-Visa before boarding your flight to Kenya. Apply online before travel | Chinese passport holders must obtain an e-Visa prior to arrival. Apply through the official Kenya e-Visa portal at https://etakenya.go.ke/. The visa is typically valid for 90 days from issue, but the allowed duration of stay is determined at the port of entry. | Required |
| Passport validityEnsure your passport does not expire within six months of your arrival date. At least 6 months | Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of entry into Kenya. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesKenyan immigration officials will stamp your passport upon arrival and departure. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must contain at least one blank page for entry and exit stamps. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketHaving a confirmed onward ticket helps demonstrate your intention to leave Kenya. May be requested | Although not always required, immigration officials may ask for proof of a return or onward ticket. It is strongly recommended to have one ready. | Recommended |
| Proof of sufficient fundsBe prepared to show you can support yourself financially during your visit. May be requested | You may be asked to show evidence of sufficient funds for your stay. The amount is not fixed, but carrying cash or a credit card is advisable. | Recommended |
| Visa fee paymentYou must pay the visa fee when submitting your online application. Paid online | The e-Visa application fee must be paid online via the e-Visa portal. The exact amount depends on the visa type and is displayed during the application process. | Required |
| Visa processing timeSubmit your application early to ensure you receive approval before departure. Apply in advance | e-Visa processing typically takes a few business days. Apply well ahead of your travel date to avoid delays. | Required |
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 (approx. $30 USD) and submit. Approval usually takes 2–3 business 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 August 5, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Kenya eTA – multiple entry (1 year)
Max stay90 days per visit
Validity12 months from issue
Cost$60
Best for repeat visitors; allows multiple entries.
Kenya eTA – single entry (standard)
Max stay90 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$34
Standard option for tourism or business visits.
Visa extension (in-country)
Max stayUp to 6 months total (initial 90 days + extensions)
ValidityGranted in 3-month increments
CostApprox. $50 per extension
Apply at the Department of Immigration in Nairobi; must have valid passport and proof of funds.
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 |
|---|---|
| Kenya eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) – single entryMandatory for all Chinese passport holders; apply online before travel. | $34 (approx. KES 4,400) |
| Kenya eTA – transit (airside, up to 72 hours)For passengers transiting through Kenyan airports without entering the country. | $20 (approx. KES 2,600) |
| Kenya eTA – multiple entry (valid 1 year)For frequent travelers; allows multiple entries within 12 months. | $60 (approx. KES 7,800) |
| Visa extension (in-country, at immigration office)Extensions are granted in 3-month increments; apply before current visa expires. | Approx. $50 (KES 6,500) per extension |
| Exit fee / airport departure taxNo separate payment required at the airport. | Included in airfare |
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
Transit visa required
Chinese passport holders transiting through Kenya (even airside) must obtain a transit eTA before travel. The transit eTA is valid for 72 hours and allows you to stay in the airport transit area only.
Exceptions & conditions
- Diplomatic or official passport holders may be exempt; check with the nearest Kenyan embassy.
- Passengers with confirmed onward tickets and who remain airside for less than 24 hours may still need the transit eTA – no exemption for Chinese nationals.
Transit hubsJomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) · Moi International Airport (MBA) · Eldoret International Airport (EDL)
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 = 129.25 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 August 5, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.