Kenya entry requirements for Colombia 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
Colombian passport holders need a visa to enter Kenya. Apply online for an eVisa before you travel — it's straightforward and usually processed within a few days. Plan ahead to avoid last-minute stress.
Apply for Kenya eVisaElectronic Travel Authorization — replaced visa on arrival in 2024.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Kenya eVisasYou need to get this online approval before you fly – it's not available on arrival. Apply online before travel | Colombian citizens must obtain an eVisas before traveling to Kenya. Apply through the official eVisa portal at https://etakenya.go.ke/ well in advance of your departure. The eVisa is typically valid for a single entry and allows a stay of up to 90 days, but the exact duration is determined by the immigration officer at the port of entry. | Required |
| Passport validityCheck your passport's expiry date – if it's less than 6 months away, renew it before you go. At least 6 months | Your Colombian passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of entry into Kenya. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesKenyan immigration will stamp your passport on arrival – you need a clean page for that. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least one blank page for the entry stamp. It is recommended to have two or more blank pages to avoid issues. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketIt's a good idea to have your departure flight booked – they might ask to see it. Proof of departure | Although not explicitly stated in the database, Kenyan immigration commonly requires visitors to show proof of a return or onward ticket. Ensure you have a confirmed ticket out of Kenya before your arrival. | Recommended |
| Proof of sufficient fundsHave some proof that you have money to cover your trip – just in case they ask. Financial evidence | While not explicitly listed in the database, Kenyan immigration may ask for evidence that you can support yourself during your stay. Carry bank statements or a credit card as proof. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou don't need to fill out any extra online forms before you go. Not required | Kenya does not require a separate arrival declaration form for Colombian citizens. The eVisa and passport are sufficient for entry. | Not required |
Yellow fever vaccine required if coming from Colombia
If you're flying directly from Colombia or have been there recently, you must show a yellow fever vaccination certificate. Get the shot at least 10 days before travel and carry the certificate with your passport.
eVisa is the way to go
Applying online at etakenya.go.ke is faster, cheaper, and less stressful than a visa on arrival. Do it at least a week before you fly.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the eVisa online
Go to etakenya.go.ke and fill out the application. You'll need your passport details, travel dates, and accommodation info. Pay the fee (around $51 USD total for a single-entry tourist visa) with a credit card. Processing usually takes 2–3 business days, but apply at least a week before your trip.
2
Receive and print your eVisa
Once approved, you'll get an eVisa by email. Print a copy and keep a digital version on your phone. You'll show it at check-in and on arrival in Kenya.
3
Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) or Moi International Airport (MBA)
At immigration, present your passport, printed eVisa, and return ticket. The officer will stamp your passport. The process is usually quick — 10–15 minutes if you have all documents ready.
4
Collect your luggage and exit
After immigration, pick up your bags from the carousel and proceed through customs. You're free to go.
Download Kenya Entry Checklist
PDF · Colombia Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 5, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Multiple-entry eVisa
Max stay90 days per visit
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$101
Allows multiple entries; good for regional travel.
Business eVisa
Max stay90 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$101
For business meetings, conferences, or trade activities.
Special pass (e.g., work or residence)
Max stayVaries
ValidityUp to 1 year
CostVaries (approx. $200+)
Requires sponsorship and in-country application; not a simple eVisa.
work visa
Work Permit (Class D)
Up to 2 years, renewable
$500–$1,000 USD (approx. 65,000–130,000 KES)
For foreign nationals employed by a Kenyan company. Requires employer sponsorship and proof of qualifications. Allows multiple entries.
student visa
Student Pass (Class M)
Duration of course, up to 4 years
$150 USD (approx. 19,500 KES) per year
For enrolled students at recognized Kenyan institutions. Requires admission letter and proof of financial support.
investor visa
Investor Permit (Class I)
Up to 3 years, renewable
$2,000 USD (approx. 260,000 KES)
For individuals investing at least $100,000 USD in Kenya. Requires business plan and proof of funds. Includes family dependents.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Kenya eVisa (single entry, tourist)Standard fee for most nationalities; payable online. | $51 |
| Kenya eVisa (transit)For transit through Kenya to a third country. | $21 |
| Kenya eVisa (multiple entry)For frequent visitors; valid for 3 months. | $101 |
| Visa extension (in-country)Apply at immigration office in Nairobi; max stay extension up to 6 months. | Approx. $50 |
| Exit feeNo separate airport exit fee for most travelers. | Included in airfare |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete visa application20%
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
Colombian passport holders transiting through Kenya require a transit eVisa unless they remain airside and do not pass immigration. However, even airside transit may require a visa if you need to change terminals or stay overnight.
Exceptions & conditions
- Diplomatic or official passport holders
- Holders of a valid Kenyan residence permit or work permit
- Passengers with a confirmed onward ticket and staying airside for less than 24 hours at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) may be exempt, but it is safer to obtain a transit visa.
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 yellow fever risk (e.g., Colombia). Must present a valid certificate.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio)EssentialRabiesConsiderCholeraConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Present throughout the country, especially in rural areas; prophylaxis recommended.
Dengue feverModerate risk
Occurs in urban and rural areas; mosquito avoidance is key.
ChikungunyaModerate risk
Transmitted by mosquitoes; symptoms include fever and joint pain.
Malaria risk: high
Risk is high throughout Kenya, including Nairobi and coastal areas. Prophylaxis (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline) is strongly recommended.
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; arrive early to avoid long queues.
Mombasa
Mombasa Regional Immigration Office
Moi Avenue, Mombasa
Mon–Fri 08:00–17:00
Handles visa issues for coastal region; bring all original documents.
Practical information for CO 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
Getting to Kenya
Nearby destinations you can also visit
Countries close to Kenya — with your same passport.
Frequently asked questions
Usually 2–3 business days, but it can take up to a week during peak times. Apply at least 7 days before your trip to be safe.
A single-entry tourist eVisa costs about $51 USD total — that's the $30 USD visa fee plus a $30 USD processing fee. You pay online with a credit card. There are also transit and multiple-entry options.
Technically yes, but it's not recommended. The online eVisa is faster, cheaper, and avoids long queues. If you do get a visa on arrival, expect to pay $50 USD and wait longer.
Yes, if you're arriving from a country with yellow fever risk (including Colombia). You'll need to show a yellow fever vaccination certificate at immigration. Get the vaccine at least 10 days before travel.
Yes, you can apply for an extension at the Department of Immigration in Nairobi (Nyayo House, Kenyatta Avenue). Extensions are usually granted for up to 3 months. The cost is around $50 USD. Apply before your current visa expires.
You'll be denied entry. Kenya strictly requires 6 months of validity from your date of entry. Renew your passport before applying for the eVisa.
It's not a formal requirement, but immigration officers may ask how you'll support yourself. Having a credit card or a few hundred dollars in cash is a good idea.
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.