Further to our earlier advice reported, the official online visa application website for Kenya https://evisa.go.ke is now accessible and as such effective immediately, the Visa on Arrival is no longer permitted for entry into Kenya.
Smartraveller has updated their advice on their website to the following:
COVID-19 Entry Requirements
The Government of Kenya no longer requires proof of either COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID-19 PCR test for entry into Kenya.
Only passengers arriving at any port of entry into Kenya with flu-like symptoms will be required to fill the passenger locator form on the ‘jitenge platform’ and take a COVID-19 antigen test upon arrival at their own cost. Those who test positive on a COVID-19 antigen test will be required to take a PCR test at their own cost and self-isolate as per Ministry of Health guidance on isolation.
Full details of the Government of Kenya’s entry requirements in relation to coronavirus can be found on the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority Website here.
General Travel Advice
Kenyan entry visas are exclusively issued electronically, with passengers required to obtain their e-visas before departure. Those travelling can apply for single entry and transit visas on the e-visas website. For more information, see the website of the Embassy of Kenya in Ireland .
A valid passport is required for travel to Kenya. Irish passports should have a minimum validity of 6 months and have at least 2 blank pages. Passport cards cannot be used.
Safety
There is currently increased concern around the possibility of a terrorist attack in Kenya. In February 2023, the US Embassy in Kenya issued a security alert urging the exercise of vigilance at locations frequented by tourists/foreigners, and the British High Commission in Nairobi issued a similar alert.
The terrorist group Al Shabaab has carried out attacks across Kenya in the past, including in Nairobi, and has threatened further attacks.
As a result, Irish citizens in Kenya are urged to exercise extreme vigilance and caution, particularly in public places including hotels, bars and restaurants, sporting events, supermarkets and shopping centres, beach resorts, government buildings, international schools, buses, trains and other transport hubs including airports. There is a heightened risk of terrorist incidents during public and religious holidays.
Citizens should also note:
Avoid non-essential travel within 75km of the Kenya-Somalia border due to the very high risk of terrorist activity and kidnapping in the region.
There is an increased risk of terrorist attacks in Naivasha, Nanyuki, Meru, Narok and in coastal areas such as Lamu county and coastal areas of Tana River and Kilifi counties.
If travelling to Lamu Island or Manda Island, you should do so by air to Lamu Airport and not via road.
The Government of Kenya is concerned about escalating insecurity in Laikipia West. It has intensified security operations the Olmoran and Laikipia Nature Conservancy following attacks by armed bandits.
The Nairobi suburbs of Buruburu, Eastleigh, Kasarani, Kibera, Mathare, Pangani, South B and South C have high rates of crime.
Incidents of violent crime are high throughout Kenya, including robberies, carjacking, and kidnapping. We advise Irish citizens travelling to large cities such as Nairobi or Mombasa to be extra vigilant. Ask the Irish Embassy be informed if involved in any incident where a police response is required.
The Department of Foreign Affairs advises citizens travelling to Kenya to register with the Embassy and exercise a high degree of caution while in Kenya.
Law requires carrying ID at all times and police may request evidence of this.
Citizens can also follow the Irish Embassy in Kenya on Twitter to ensure access to relevant updates and alerts.
Emergency Assistance
The best help is often close at hand so if you have problems, try talking to your local contacts, tour operator representative or hotel management.
You can contact the emergency services in Kenya by dialling 999.
