Kenya Courtesy Entry Permit- An Official Traveler's Guide
Kenya has always been a proponent of merry international relations, and the government has thought of it as a part of its official duties. Thus, to facilitate that, the government officials have developed a special kind of travel authorization which we call the Courtesy Visa.
However, you should know that it is quite different from common tourist visa or even the very newly developed Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization. It is one meant specifically for foreign officials.
Who is qualified to receive the courtesy visa?
Courtesy Visa is a type of entry visa. Only a select few kinds of travelers who are in the nation for the representation of their government. Additionally, such party can also represent some international bodies.
Eligibility
Such people who qualify for this visa are often holders of a Diplomatic, Official, or Service passport. So, an official mission has to be present for one to be qualified under this visa.
Purpose
Remember that such person should only be using the visa to carry out their official government duties in Kenya. Additionally, if they are making a transit through the Kenyan airport and travelling to another nation for the purpose of official duties, this Visa shall apply.
However, if you are visiting under the Kenya Courtesy Entry Permit, you cannot carry out paid work, unpaid work, business activities or any other similar related activities other than the purpose of this visa.
Cost
Being an act of courtesy, this visa is free of charge-gratis-to foreign officials and dignitaries. If they would instead prefer to get the Kenya eTA, then those holding Official, Diplomatic, or Service passports are also exempt from paying the usual charge.
Key Application Requirements
If you want to apply for this Courtesy Visa, these are the documents that you will require.
Passport Requirement
To apply for the Courtesy Visa, you should hold some kind of Service, Diplomatic, or Official passport. Such passport has a validity of six months that starts from the date they enter the country. Additionally, the passport should also have two blank pages for the entry purposes.
Official Letter
A supporting document that is very important is an official letter from either the applicant's country of origin or an international organization. This is a required document; it should clearly state the purpose of visit and, precisely, the nature of the official duty to be undertaken in Kenya.
Transit Proof
Transit passengers should provide an onward ticket or boarding pass showing travel to a third country.
Digital Submission
A recent, sharp, color photograph taken within the last six months against an all-white background and a clear copy of the passport bio-data page. Supporting documents should be in English and have to be uploaded only in JPG or PDF format.
Other Possible Documents
Even though the above-mentioned are the more essential documents, tourists should be prepared to present others, if these are requested: a complete program of travels or evidence of accommodation.
The Application Process and Final Caveats
Application is simple, yet it does require careful attention to detail:
Documents
Make sure all the necessary and supporting documents, as required, are valid, correctly prepared, and in the correct electronic format.
Online Submission
Access the official online portal or website and, after selecting the appropriate Courtesy Visa category, fill out an application form with particulars, making sure it is quite accurate.
Upload and Submission
Attach the necessary document copies and submit the filled-in application form. As the visa is free, there is no charge for it.
Processing Time
The usual processing time is two to three working days; however, it is strongly recommended that you allow three to four days in advance of when you plan to travel, in case some delays occur in the process. Not all entries will be guaranteed, and it is important to note this.
Even with an approved Courtesy Visa in your possession, entry is still at the discretion of the immigration officers present at the port of entry. They have the authority to deny entry upon arrival if all immigration requirements are not met. Once approved, travelers should make sure they print out the visa for presentation upon arrival.
READ MORE:
The Kenya eTA offers a streamlined online application process, allowing travellers to apply comfortably from home without visiting an embassy or consulate. Learn more at Guide to The Kenya Tourist Visa.