How to Apply for Visa Extension in Kenya Online

Kenyan Visa is one of the easiest visas to obtain, and like most African countries, the process of application for an extension can be done fully online. So, if your stay in the country is gradually winding up and you intend to extend your stay, you must be familiar with how to apply for visa extension in Kenya online.

The Kenya visa (Visitors Pass) extension starts at the official eCitizen (eFNS ) portal, where the applicants can apply and pay conveniently online and then finalize the process at an immigration office in Nairobi or Mombasa. These extensions have to be done while the initial visa is still in operation and this has to be done by submitting the necessary documents and fees before the expiration.

This writing will explore in detail how to apply for a visa extension in Kenya online, the requirements and fees needed for a Kenya visa extension online, and other important information you will need to carry out a smooth application process.

1Can I do a visa extension online?

2How long does it take for a visa extension to be approved?

3What documents are needed to apply for a visa extension?

4Kenya visa extension fees

5What are the requirements for applying for an extension visa in Kenya?

6How to Apply for Visa Extension in Kenya Online

Can I do a visa extension online?

Yes. Kenya provides an online portal for visa services, so foreigners can initiate a visa extension application through the eCitizen platform (sometimes referred to as the eFNS portal). On the portal’s Immigration Services section, one can select Visitor’s Pass Extension and fill out the form with personal details and travel document information.

In fact, the Directorate’s website emphasizes that you can “apply and pay for services conveniently through your eCitizen account”. Once the form has been filled out online, the form should be printed and presented in the Immigration Headquarters or any of the immigration offices with supporting documents.

(This two-step procedure will give the form its authenticity; the online form generates a Visitor Pass Extension form, but you will deliver the hardcopy with your passport and your original visa copy in person to have them verified).

Therefore, although much of the process is done over the internet, expect that once the form is completed and ready, you will have to present it in person at a Kenyan immigration counter.

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How long does it take for a visa extension to be approved?

Visa extension process is usually very fast if you have your documentation in place. Most applications submitted to the Directorate of Immigration are approved on the same day or within 1–2 business days.

In most cases, visa extensions are processed on the same day if all documents are in order. However, allow for additional time in case there are any discrepancies or if volume is high – generally 2–3 working days is a safe estimate.

To prevent the inconveniences, one should apply at least several days before their current visa runs out. Once approved, the extension is normally written in your passport (either a stamp or a printed slip) that increases your period of stay.

What documents are needed to apply for a visa extension?

To apply online, you must upload or present several key documents:

Valid Passport and Current Visa: Your passport must be valid (usually at least 6 months from now) and must contain the current Kenyan visa or Visitor’s Pass. You’ll need a copy of the passport biodata page and a copy of the valid visa/entry stamp.

Passport Photos: Typically two recent, colored passport-size photos on plain background. (The eFNS form may prompt you to upload digital photos.)

Filled Application Form (Form 22): This form is generated online after you submit your eCitizen application. You have to print out and sign the original, and hand it over.
Supporting Letter/Reason: You are possibly expected to provide a written letter as to why you would need an extension (e.g., tourism, medical reasons, etc.).
Proof of sufficient funds: Bank statements or any other evidence that you can sustain yourself throughout the long term stay.
Return Ticket or Travel Itinerary: these are the signs that you are going to leave Kenya (ticket booking or itinerary).
Application Fee Receipt: After paying the extension fee online (KSh 1,000 per extension month, include proof of payment. The current fee is KSh 1,000 per month of extension (about USD 10).

Additional Identifications: A copy of any Kenyan ID or residence permit if applicable.

All scans (passport, visa) are uploaded when applying online, while the printed form and originals are handed in at the office. The passport bio-page and visa copy must be clear; the online system will review these.

According to Kenya immigration instructions, the requirements for extending a Visitor’s Pass include “a duly filled, signed online application, print-out of the extension form, original and copy of the Visitors Pass (current visa), and a copy of the valid passport”.

Kenya visa extension fees

Kenya’s extension fees are quite affordable. Currently, the fee for each one-month extension is KSh 1,000 (approximately USD 10). You may extend up to three months beyond your initial visa (for a total of six months in the country), but each month incurs the same KSh 1,000 charge.

For example, Travel.gc.ca notes “Kenyan Immigration authorities may extend your visa for one month at a time, for a maximum of three months, and each extension costs KSh 1,000”. If you require 90 additional days, you would thus pay KSh 3,000 in total at time of application.

(These rates apply to most nationals; diplomats and some others may have different arrangements.) There are no other hidden charges at the immigration office, apart from a penalty if you overstay before obtaining an extension. But as long as you apply on time, you only pay the standard KSh 1,000 monthly fee.

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What are the requirements for applying for an extension visa in Kenya?

In summary, the main requirements are:

Valid Visa/Passport: You must currently be in Kenya on a valid visa or Visitors Pass. Extensions are only granted to those already legally present.
Sufficient Validity: Your passport should be valid for at least 6 more months from the date you apply.
Complete Application: You need to fill out and sign the official extension form online, then print it (Form 22).
Submission in Time: Submit the extension before your current visa expires – ideally at least a few days prior.
Supporting Documentation: Present funds, plans to fly back home, and why you will not leave after a long time.
Fee Payment: Pay KSh 1,000 per month of extension (e.g. 3 months = KSh 3,000) before submission.
Personal Presentation: Once you have applied online, you usually have to be physically present at the immigration office in Nairobi or Mombasa, where they require you to present documents and have the extension done.

There is no particular educational or additional paperwork required besides the one above. The most notable items among are the copy of a valid passport, as well as the original and copy of the Visitors Pass and signature on the application form, as given by the immigration directive.

Ensure that your travel history is clean (no overstays) and that your application is reasonable (e.g., tourism, medical, family reasons).

Visa extension officers may ask questions or request proof on arrival (such as showing you were not working illegally). As long as you meet the standard criteria and pay the fee, an extension is routinely granted for the requested period.

The process is very similar to a fresh visa application but specifically selects the “extension” option online. Because Kenya has moved to e-filing, most paperwork is done electronically first. The key document generated (Form 22) ensures the application is formalized when you meet the officer in person.

To apply for a visa extension in Kenya online, follow these steps:

1. Create/Log into eCitizen

If you don’t have one, register for a Government of Kenya eCitizen account on the immigration portal. If you do, log in. (The Directorate’s instructions explicitly say all immigration services, including visa extensions, are handled via eCitizen.)

2. Select the Service

Navigate to Apply for a Visitor’s Pass Extension under Immigration Services. Start a new application and fill in personal details as it is on your passport (name, Nationality, passport number, visa number, and so on).

3. Upload Documents

Scan and upload readable copies of your passport biodata page, your present visa page (Visitors Pass), and any pictures or letters of explanation that is required.

4. Complete the Form

The system will compile these into an “Extension of Pass” form (Form 22). Review carefully and digitally sign it.

5. Pay the Fee Online

You will be prompted to pay the extension fee. For example, KSh 1,000 for one month. Pay via credit card, M-Pesa, or other available methods.

6. Print Application Package

After payment and submission, the portal allows you to print a completed set of forms and the payment receipt. You must take these to the immigration office.

7. Visit the Immigration Office

Visit Immigration Headquarters (Nyayo House, Nairobi) or visit the Mombasa Immigration office. Place your original passport, current visa /Visitors Pass, the printed application, receipt of fee, and supporting documentation.

8. Get Confirmation

You will be checked at the counter. The officials will inspect your papers, and you may need to answer some questions. As soon as they do it, they will stamp your passport (or add a slip) with the new extended expiry date. You will be notified (often by email) when the extension is granted.

Note that some travel forums confirm this sequence: apply on the eCitizen portal and then physically submit at the immigration offices (Nairobi/Mombasa). If your application is complete, expect the extension to be stamped within a day or two.

Finally, always double-check that the new visa’s expiry is recorded correctly – the immigration officer should enter the new date (up to 90 days beyond your old expiry).

FAQs

How can I extend my visa in Kenya?

To extend your visa in Kenya, you must apply for a Visitor’s Pass extension before your current visa expires via the Kenya Foreign Nationals Service Portal or in person at the Directorate of Immigration Services in Nairobi.

Can I do a visa extension online?

Foreigners can apply through online.vfsevisa.com/

Can I work while my visa extension is pending?

You can continue working & travel

Conclusion

Extending your visa in Kenya is a straightforward process thanks to the government’s online system. With the correct preparation and timely application, most visitors to Kenya obtain their visitor’s pass extension without difficulty, extending their stay up to the full permitted six months.

Always use the official eCitizen portal to ensure a smooth, official process, and double-check you meet all listed requirements (valid passport, reasons for stay, etc.) before applying.