Do South Africans need a visa for Kenya?
No visa needed
No. South African passport holders don't need a visa for Kenya.
Before you go: Nothing to apply for, but get a yellow fever vaccination at least 10 days before you fly.
For South African passport holders travelling as tourists. Checked Sep 2026.
Reconfirm before you book. This rule relies on secondary sources or changed recently. Check the official source.
The rules at a glance
| Document | Visa and travel-authorisation exemption |
|---|---|
| Stay allowed | Up to 90 days (some sources say 60) |
| When to apply | Nothing to apply for, but get a yellow fever vaccination at least 10 days before you fly |
| Fee | None |
| Passport | Valid 6+ months from the date you arrive, with blank pages for stamps. |
South Africans were exempted from Kenya's electronic travel authorisation in July 2025. A rule requiring US$50,000 of travel health cover (gazetted July 2026) was suspended by the High Court in late August 2026; carry at least that level of cover anyway.
Health rules that affect entry
Yellow fever: South Africa requires a vaccination certificate when you return from Kenya, and airlines may check it at check-in. Malaria prophylaxis is advised for the Mara and the coast.
Trips to Kenya on Passport Fund
Quick answers
Do South Africans need a visa for Kenya?
No. South African passport holders don't need a visa for Kenya. Nothing to apply for, but get a yellow fever vaccination at least 10 days before you fly.
How long can South Africans stay in Kenya?
Up to 90 days (some sources say 60).
How much does it cost?
None.
Sources
Checked Sep 2026.
Visa rules change without notice. Always confirm with the embassy or the official portal before booking non-refundable travel.