South Africa Visa RequirementsFor Kenya passport holders
Kenyan citizens require a visa to visit South Africa, which must be obtained in advance from the South African High Commission in Nairobi. The visa costs approximately $60 and allows stays of up to 90 days. Kenya Airways operates direct flights between Nairobi and Johannesburg.
Kenya passport holders require a visa to enter South Africa.
Apply at the South African High Commission in Nairobi (Lenana Road, Kilimani) by booking an appointment through VFS Global. Required documents: completed visa application form (BI-84), two passport-sized photos, passport with at least 30 days validity beyond return date and 2 blank pages, bank statements for the last 3 months, proof of accommodation, return flight booking, yellow fever vaccination certificate (required for travelers from Kenya), employment letter, and proof of sufficient funds. Fee: approximately $60 USD. Processing: 5 to 10 business days.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Allowed
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
Completed visa application form (BI-84)
Passport with at least 30 days validity beyond return date and 2 blank pages
Two recent passport-sized photos
Bank statements for the last 3 months
Return or onward flight booking
Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host letter)
Yellow fever vaccination certificate
Employment letter or proof of occupation
Unabridged birth certificate (travelers under 18)
Current Travel Situation
Kenya to South Africa: What You Need to Know
Despite being neighbouring African nations, Kenyan citizens require a visa to enter South Africa. South Africa is one of Africa's most popular destinations for Kenyan travelers, particularly for tourism, medical services, education, and business. The South African High Commission in Nairobi processes visa applications on an appointment basis.
How to Get There
Kenya Airways operates direct flights from Nairobi (NBO) to Johannesburg O.R. Tambo (JNB), typically around 4.5 hours. South African Airways and Ethiopian Airlines also serve this route. Cape Town (CPT) can be reached directly from Nairobi on some schedules or via Johannesburg. South Africa has excellent internal flight connections between Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban (DUR).
Money & Banking
South Africa uses the South African Rand (ZAR). ATMs (Absa, FNB, Standard Bank) are widely available and accept Visa and Mastercard. Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shopping centres. South Africa is moderately expensive but significantly cheaper than Europe. Cape Town and the Winelands are pricier; Johannesburg and inland areas offer better value.
Practical Tips
Yellow fever vaccination and certificate are required for travelers arriving from Kenya (a yellow fever endemic country); bring your yellow card. Book safari activities well in advance for popular parks like Kruger. South Africa has a high crime rate in urban areas; take normal precautions, avoid displaying valuables, and use reliable transport (Uber is widely available). Driving is on the left. Cape Town is best visited from November to March.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Kenyan citizens need a visa for South Africa?
Yes. Kenyan citizens require a visa to enter South Africa applied for in advance at the South African High Commission in Nairobi or through VFS Global Kenya. The fee is approximately $60.
Do I need a yellow fever certificate to enter South Africa from Kenya?
Yes. Travelers arriving in South Africa from Kenya (a yellow fever endemic country) must present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. Without it, you may be denied entry.
Is there a direct flight from Nairobi to Johannesburg?
Yes. Kenya Airways operates direct flights from Nairobi (NBO) to Johannesburg O.R. Tambo (JNB), taking approximately 4.5 hours.