🇿🇦 South African passport → Kenya
Do South African citizens need a visa for Kenya?
South African passport holders have strong intra-Africa access through SADC and the AU, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry to most of the continent.
No — South African citizens do not need a visa for Kenya.
No advance visa needed. An entry stamp is issued at the border or airport on arrival. Visa-free for most African nationals but everyone now needs the eTA — including visa-free travelers.
- Stay length
- Up to 90 days
- Cost
- Free (eTA still required)
- Processing
- On arrival
- Where to apply
- Nothing to apply for
What else you need
Common entry requirements that catch travelers out — verify each before you fly.
What to know about Kenya. Kenya replaced its traditional visa with an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) in January 2024. Apply at least 72 hours before travel; approvals usually arrive within three days. The East Africa Tourist Visa (USD 100) is a useful upgrade if combining with Uganda and Rwanda.
Notes for South African travelers
Currency tip
You’ll likely pay Kenya visa fees in USD or local currency, not ZAR. Bring clean, post-2009 USD notes in mixed denominations — they’re the most useful currency for visas on arrival and border fees across Africa.
Health prep
Required if arriving from a yellow fever country Check the latest CDC/UK government travel health advice for Kenya before you fly — recommended vaccinations and antimalarial guidance change.
FAQ
- Do South African citizens need a visa for Kenya?
- No. South African passport holders do not need a visa for Kenya for stays up to up to 90 days.
- How much does a Kenya visa cost for South African citizens?
- Free (eTA still required). Apply at https://www.etakenya.go.ke.
- How long can South African citizens stay in Kenya?
- Up to 90 days is the standard tourist entry. Extensions are usually possible through the destination's immigration office; some countries allow border-hop renewals.
- Can South African citizens get a Kenya visa on arrival?
- You don't need a visa at all — just present your passport on arrival.
Check another combination
Keep planning your Kenya trip
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Then
Best time to visit
Seasonal guides for when to go, what to see, and what to skip.
Then
Packing for East Africa
Trip-by-trip lists for safari, coast, cities and high-altitude treks.