--- title: Student Visa — Kenya (2026) description: Free complete guide to the Student Visa visa for Kenya. Eligibility, costs, documents, process, and FAQ. Updated 2026. image: https://migrantiq.com/og/default.png --- Skip to content Kenya flag [/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fflagcdn.com%2Fw80%2Fke.png&w=3840&q=75]KENYA STUDENT PASS (CLASS M STUDY PERMIT) Category: Student · Processing time: 2-6 weeks (Highly dependent on institutional vetting queues and eFNS processing backlogs). Editorially reviewedLast updated 2026-10-04Reviewed by MigrantIQ Editorial TeamOfficial visa portal ↗ [https://www.immigration.go.ke/] Recently verified 3 min readCommunity feedback: open Save visa to plan Visa decisions require official verification MigrantIQ provides general migration information, not legal advice. Always verify critical steps with official government sources or a licensed advisor before paying fees or submitting documents. Terms [/terms/]Privacy [/privacy/]Report an issue [/contact/] AI-assisted. Parts of this page may be drafted with AI and editor-reviewed. Always confirm rules, fees, and hours on official government sources before you act. How we use AI [/about/ai/] · Editorial standards [/about/editorial-standards/] Apply through official authority Department of Immigration Services Always submit applications through the official source. Last verified 2026-10-03. Apply on official site → [https://www.immigration.go.ke/] Visa type Student Processing time 2-6 weeks (Highly dependent on institutional vetting queues and eFNS processing backlogs). Fees Non_EAC_National_Pass_Fee: USD 100 per year Validity Typically issued for 1 to 2 years initially, directly tied to the duration of the current academic cycle. Stay duration Long-term (renewable sequentially for the remaining duration of the academic study program). Entry type Confirm single/multiple entry rules Insurance Confirm if required Bookmark Save this visa to My Plan OVERVIEW The Kenya Student Visa allows international students to enter and reside in Kenya for the purpose of full-time educational study. This visa does not provide a path to permanent residency. * Leads to permanent residency: No * Requires job offer: No * Language required: No * Minimum education: Completion of primary or secondary education contextually relevant to the admitting course level. * Financial requirement: Must provide a commitment/sponsorship letter alongside 3 months of certified bank statements showing sufficient personal or guardian liquid assets to cover tuition and local room/board. * Accommodation proof: Yes (The host institution's physical location and the student's intended residential address must be documented on Form 30). ESTIMATED COSTS * - Non_EAC_National_Pass_Fee: USD 100 per year * - EAC_National_Pass_Fee: Gratis (Fee-exempt) * - Pre_Travel_eTA_Fee: USD 34.09 * - Annual_Alien_Card_Fee: KES 5,000 * - Alien_Card_Non_Compliance_Fine: KES 10,000 REQUIRED DOCUMENTS * - Valid National Passport (with at least 6 months validity remaining and blank pages) * - Duly completed, signed, and institution-stamped Immigration Form 30 * - Official Admission Letter from the registered Kenyan institution * - Detailed cover letter from the institution addressed to the Director of Immigration Services * - Certified copies of basic academic certificates matching entry eligibility * - Two recent passport-size colored photographs * - Sponsor commitment letter alongside accompanying financial proof (bank statements) * - Valid Police Clearance Certificate from the home country (for adult applicants) APPLICATION STEPS 1. Secure formal admission to a registered Kenyan school and obtain an admission letter alongside a cover letter from the institution. 2. Have the school fill out, stamp, and sign the official Immigration Form 30. 3. Create or log into an account on the Government of Kenya Single Sign-On system to access the eFNS portal. 4. Submit the Student Pass application online, uploading all identity, financial, and institutional documents. 5. Apply for and obtain an electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) for USD 34.09 to facilitate physical travel into Kenya. 6. Upon approval of the pass on eFNS, pay the required USD 100 annual fee. 7. Present your passport at the Department of Immigration headquarters (Nyayo House, Nairobi) for physical pass endorsement, and apply for your mandatory KES 5,000 Alien Card if staying past 90 days. Always confirm the latest steps and forms on the official portal: Department of Immigration Services → [https://www.immigration.go.ke/] TRAVEL INSURANCE REQUIREMENT * Mandatory: Confirm with official source * Minimum coverage: Confirm current coverage rules * Valid regions: Confirm accepted regions * Approved providers: Use providers accepted by the official authority EMBASSY, CONSULATE & APPOINTMENTS Embassy, consulate, jurisdiction, and appointment details vary by applicant location. Confirm the correct office before booking travel or paying fees. Open appointment or official portal → [https://www.immigration.go.ke/] Browse foreign embassies in Kenya (MigrantIQ directory) → [/embassies/in/kenya/] Directory listings are for planning only — not legal advice. Confirm jurisdiction and appointment rules on the official portal. Application checklist TRACK YOUR STUDENT VISA PREPARATION Check items off as you prepare. Progress is saved in this browser and can be synced from My Plan. 0 / 16 complete * Confirm Student Visa requirements on the official Kenya immigration source.Department of Immigration Services * Review the eligibility rules and note anything that needs evidence.Check whether this pathway accepts self-sponsored applicants. * Book or gather language test evidence.Destination-recognised English/local language test * Prepare document: Valid National Passport (with at least 6 months validity remaining and blank pages)Check whether translation, notarization, apostille, or certified copies are required. * Prepare document: Duly completed, signed, and institution-stamped Immigration Form 30Check whether translation, notarization, apostille, or certified copies are required. * Prepare document: Official Admission Letter from the registered Kenyan institutionCheck whether translation, notarization, apostille, or certified copies are required. * Prepare document: Detailed cover letter from the institution addressed to the Director of Immigration ServicesCheck whether translation, notarization, apostille, or certified copies are required. * Prepare document: Certified copies of basic academic certificates matching entry eligibilityCheck whether translation, notarization, apostille, or certified copies are required. * Prepare document: Two recent passport-size colored photographsCheck whether translation, notarization, apostille, or certified copies are required. * Complete step: Secure formal admission to a registered Kenyan school and obtain an admission letter alongside a cover letter from the institution. * Complete step: Have the school fill out, stamp, and sign the official Immigration Form 30. * Complete step: Create or log into an account on the Government of Kenya Single Sign-On system to access the eFNS portal. * Complete step: Submit the Student Pass application online, uploading all identity, financial, and institutional documents. * Complete step: Apply for and obtain an electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) for USD 34.09 to facilitate physical travel into Kenya. * Pay only through official channels and save receipts.Avoid bank transfers to personal accounts or agents promising guaranteed approval. * Save a full copy of forms, uploads, payment receipts, and appointment confirmations. Clear checklistSync checklist in My Plan → [/plan/] GET VISA CHECKLIST UPDATES Receive relevant reminders and source updates for Student Visa in Kenya. Get reminders BENEFITS & WHAT THIS VISA ALLOWS * - Long-stay permission tied to course duration * - Often allows limited part-time work * - Pathways to post-study work permits in many destinations * - Family / dependant accompaniment available in many countries Trust & safety BEFORE YOU PAY OR SUBMIT DOCUMENTS Use the official portal for applications and payments. Be careful with agents who guarantee approval, ask for personal-account transfers, or pressure you to send originals before a written contract. Official portal → [https://www.immigration.go.ke/] RELEVANT LAWS * Work Authorisation Rules [/laws/kenya/work-authorisation-rules/] Employment · Severity: Critical In Kenya, obtaining the right work authorization is essential for anyone looking to engage in employment activities. A visa that permits entry into the country does not automatically grant the holder the right to work.… * Immigration Status and Overstay Rules [/laws/kenya/immigration-status-and-overstay-rules/] Immigration · Severity: Critical In Kenya, your right to remain in the country is determined by the type of visa, residence permit, entry stamp, or visa-free allowance you possess. You should understand that holding a pending application, job offer,… * Tax Residency and Income Reporting [/laws/kenya/tax-residency-and-income-reporting/] Tax · Severity: High Tax residency in Kenya is determined by the duration of your stay and your income sources. If you live in Kenya for at least 183 days in a year or have a permanent home in the country, you are considered a tax… ACTIVE SCAM ALERTS * Document Translation, Notary, or Apostille Overcharge [/scam-alerts/kenya/document-translation-notary-overcharge/]Medium In Kenya, some agents exploit newcomers by charging excessive fees for essential services like document translation, notarisation, and obtaining an apostille. This scam primarily targets visa applicants, families,… * Fake Border, Airport, or Fast-Track Assistance Fee [/scam-alerts/kenya/fake-border-airport-assistance-fee/]Medium In Kenya, a common scam targets tourists, first-time travelers, workers, and students. Scammers impersonate airport staff, immigration officers, or travel agents, claiming that you must pay a special fee to enter the… * Fake University or Scholarship Letter [/scam-alerts/kenya/fake-university-or-scholarship-letter/]Medium In Kenya, a growing number of students and their parents are falling victim to scams involving fake university admissions and scholarship offers. Fraudsters often pose as unofficial agents, claiming to provide… * Rental Deposit Before Viewing or Contract [/scam-alerts/kenya/rental-deposit-before-viewing/]Medium Scammers are increasingly targeting newcomers in Kenya with rental scams that involve requesting a deposit before any viewing or signing of a contract. Typically, scammers advertise fake apartments on various online… QUICK ELIGIBILITY CHECK Use this self-check for Student Visa. It does not replace official legal assessment. I have a qualifying job offerI have required language test evidence Education LevelHigh schoolDiplomaBachelor or higher Result: Likely eligible baseline COMMON REJECTION REASONS * - Incomplete or improperly filled out Immigration Form 30. * - Lack of sufficient financial proof to cover study and living expenses. * - Failure to provide required academic certificates or admission letters. APPLICATION TIPS * - Ensure all documents are complete and properly signed to avoid delays. * - Contact the educational institution for assistance in obtaining necessary letters and forms. * - Check the official immigration website for the most current forms and requirements. SOURCES & REFERENCES Use these references for verification. Official government and appointment portals override summary guidance on MigrantIQ. * Department of Immigration Services [https://www.immigration.go.ke/] Official source for forms, appointments, fees, and final requirements. * MigrantIQ visa record Summary record maintained for planning and source verification. Feedback Was this guide helpful? Your answer helps us improve guides and update priority. YesNo PLAN YOUR NEXT STEPS * All visas · KenyaIndex [/visas/kenya/] * KenyaCountry [/countries/kenya/] * Arrival checklistChecklist [/checklist/kenya/] * Eligibility quizTool [/tools/eligibility/] * Pick a corridor calculatorCalculator [/calculator/] * Immigration Q&AQ&A [/qa/] * People storiesStories [/stories/?corridor=kenya] * Save to My PlanPlan [/plan/] Summarize this page with AI Opens your assistant with a pre-filled prompt (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude). Gemini uses Google AI Mode. Ask AI ↗ Not affiliated with any AI platform. Always verify immigration rules on official government sites. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS WHO IS STUDENT VISA FOR? This visa is designed for applicants matching Student pathway criteria. HOW LONG DOES PROCESSING TAKE? Typical processing time is 2-6 weeks (Highly dependent on institutional vetting queues and eFNS processing backlogs)., subject to documentation quality and application volume. WHAT SHOULD I PREPARE FIRST? Start with eligibility evidence, document checklists, and proof of funds before submitting. LANGUAGE TESTS * - Destination-recognised English/local language test CONTINUE PLANNING * All visas for Kenya [/visas/kenya/] * Kenya laws hub [/laws/kenya/] * Kenya scam alerts [/scam-alerts/kenya/] Plan smarter Save countries, compare destinations, track visa checklists, and sync your migration plan across devices. Open My Plan [/plan/]Account Dashboard [/account/] Free resources TOOLS & GUIDES Full sitemap → [/sitemap/] PLAN YOUR MOVE * Eligibility quiz [/tools/eligibility/] * Tax calculator [/tools/tax-calculator/] * Tax compare [/tools/tax-compare/] * Tax guides [/tools/tax-guides/] * Points calculator [/tools/points-calculator/] * Cost calculator [/calculator/] * Move planner [/tools/planner/] * Best country [/tools/best-country/] * Pathway finder [/tools/pathway-finder/] * Corridor fit [/tools/corridor-fit/] * Compare 3 countries [/tools/compare-three/] * Job → visa matcher [/tools/job-visa-match/] * Scam checker [/tools/scam-check/] * All tools [/tools/] GUIDES & SAFETY * Visa guides [/visas/] * Scholarships [/scholarships/] * Government jobs [/government-jobs/] * Immigration updates [/countries/canada/immigration-updates/] * Embassies [/embassies/] * Laws [/laws/] * Scam alerts [/scam-alerts/] * Checklists [/checklist/] * Country profiles [/countries/] COMMUNITY * Q&A [/qa/] * People stories [/stories/] * Blog [/blog/] * Android app (Google Play) [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.migrantiq.app&hl=en] * Write for us [/write-for-us/] * Experts [/experts/] * Apply for expert listing [/experts/apply/] * Documentation [/documentation/] * Employers (HR) [/employers/] ```json {"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://migrantiq.com/#organization","name":"MigrantIQ","url":"https://migrantiq.com","logo":"https://migrantiq.com/logo.png","description":"MigrantIQ publishes free migration guides covering visas, laws, costs, culture, banking, healthcare, scam alerts, and moving checklists for 220 countries.","knowsAbout":["immigration","visa requirements","moving abroad","cost of living","immigrant laws","scam protection","arrival checklists"],"sameAs":["https://www.facebook.com/migrantiq/","https://x.com/MigrantIQ","https://www.instagram.com/migrantiqorg/","https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.migrantiq.app&hl=en"],"contactPoint":[{"@type":"ContactPoint","contactType":"customer support","email":"Info@MigrantIQ.com","url":"https://migrantiq.com/contact/","availableLanguage":["English"]}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https://migrantiq.com/#website","name":"MigrantIQ","url":"https://migrantiq.com","publisher":{"@id":"https://migrantiq.com/#organization"},"inLanguage":"en","potentialAction":{"@type":"SearchAction","target":"https://migrantiq.com/search/?q={search_term_string}","query-input":"required name=search_term_string"}}]} {"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"BreadcrumbList","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https://migrantiq.com/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Visas","item":"https://migrantiq.com/visas/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Kenya","item":"https://migrantiq.com/visas/kenya/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":4,"name":"Student Visa","item":"https://migrantiq.com/visas/kenya/student/"}]} {"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https://migrantiq.com/visas/kenya/student/#article","headline":"Kenya Student Pass (Class M Study Permit) in Kenya: Complete Guide","description":"Who is the Student Visa for in Kenya?\n\nTo apply for a Kenya Student Visa, you need to be admitted to an approved educational institution. What documents are required? You must submit sever","url":"https://migrantiq.com/visas/kenya/student/","dateModified":"2026-10-03T13:50:02.000Z","author":{"@type":"Organization","name":"MigrantIQ","url":"https://migrantiq.com"},"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"MigrantIQ","url":"https://migrantiq.com"},"about":[{"@type":"Country","name":"Kenya"},{"@id":"https://www.immigration.go.ke/#service"}],"mainEntityOfPage":{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https://migrantiq.com/visas/kenya/student/"}},{"@type":"HowTo","@id":"https://migrantiq.com/visas/kenya/student/#application-process","name":"How to apply for Kenya Student Pass (Class M Study Permit) in Kenya","description":"Who is the Student Visa for in Kenya?\n\nTo apply for a Kenya Student Visa, you need to be admitted to an approved educational institution. What documents are required? You must submit sever","totalTime":"2-6 weeks (Highly dependent on institutional vetting queues and eFNS processing backlogs).","step":[{"@type":"HowToStep","position":1,"name":"Secure formal admission to a registered Kenyan school and obtain an admission letter alongside a cover letter from the institution.","text":"Secure formal admission to a registered Kenyan school and obtain an admission letter alongside a cover letter from the institution."},{"@type":"HowToStep","position":2,"name":"Have the school fill out, stamp, and sign the official Immigration Form 30.","text":"Have the school fill out, stamp, and sign the official Immigration Form 30."},{"@type":"HowToStep","position":3,"name":"Create or log into an account on the Government of Kenya Single Sign-On system to access the eFNS portal.","text":"Create or log into an account on the Government of Kenya Single Sign-On system to access the eFNS portal."},{"@type":"HowToStep","position":4,"name":"Submit the Student Pass application online, uploading all identity, financial, and institutional documents.","text":"Submit the Student Pass application online, uploading all identity, financial, and institutional documents."},{"@type":"HowToStep","position":5,"name":"Apply for and obtain an electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) for USD 34.09 to facilitate physical travel into Kenya.","text":"Apply for and obtain an electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) for USD 34.09 to facilitate physical travel into Kenya."},{"@type":"HowToStep","position":6,"name":"Upon approval of the pass on eFNS, pay the required USD 100 annual fee.","text":"Upon approval of the pass on eFNS, pay the required USD 100 annual fee."},{"@type":"HowToStep","position":7,"name":"Present your passport at the Department of Immigration headquarters (Nyayo House, Nairobi) for physical pass endorsement, and apply for your mandatory KES 5,000 Alien Card if staying past 90 days.","text":"Present your passport at the Department of Immigration headquarters (Nyayo House, Nairobi) for physical pass endorsement, and apply for your mandatory KES 5,000 Alien Card if staying past 90 days."}]},{"@type":"ItemList","@id":"https://migrantiq.com/visas/kenya/student/#required-documents","name":"Kenya Student Pass (Class M Study Permit) required documents","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Valid National Passport (with at least 6 months validity remaining and blank pages)"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Duly completed, signed, and institution-stamped Immigration Form 30"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Official Admission Letter from the registered Kenyan institution"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":4,"name":"Detailed cover letter from the institution addressed to the Director of Immigration Services"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":5,"name":"Certified copies of basic academic certificates matching entry eligibility"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":6,"name":"Two recent passport-size colored photographs"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":7,"name":"Sponsor commitment letter alongside accompanying financial proof (bank statements)"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":8,"name":"Valid Police Clearance Certificate from the home country (for adult applicants)"}]},{"@type":"GovernmentService","@id":"https://www.immigration.go.ke/#service","name":"Kenya Student Pass (Class M Study Permit)","serviceType":"Student","provider":{"@type":"GovernmentOrganization","name":"Department of Immigration Services"},"areaServed":{"@type":"Country","name":"Kenya"},"url":"https://www.immigration.go.ke/"}]} {"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"FAQPage","mainEntity":[{"@type":"Question","name":"Who is Student Visa for?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"This visa is designed for applicants matching Student pathway criteria."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How long does processing take?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Typical processing time is 2-6 weeks (Highly dependent on institutional vetting queues and eFNS processing backlogs)., subject to documentation quality and application volume."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What should I prepare first?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Start with eligibility evidence, document checklists, and proof of funds before submitting."}}]} ```