Kenya Student Pass (Class M Study Permit)
Category: Student · Processing time: 2-6 weeks (Highly dependent on institutional vetting queues and eFNS processing backlogs).
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Apply through official authority
Department of Immigration Services
Always submit applications through the official source. Last verified 2026-10-03.
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
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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
- Secure formal admission to a registered Kenyan school and obtain an admission letter alongside a cover letter from the institution.
- Have the school fill out, stamp, and sign the official Immigration Form 30.
- Create or log into an account on the Government of Kenya Single Sign-On system to access the eFNS portal.
- Submit the Student Pass application online, uploading all identity, financial, and institutional documents.
- Apply for and obtain an electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) for USD 34.09 to facilitate physical travel into Kenya.
- Upon approval of the pass on eFNS, pay the required USD 100 annual fee.
- 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 →
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 →Browse foreign embassies in Kenya (MigrantIQ directory) →
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
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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.
Relevant laws
- 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
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
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
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,…
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…
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…
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.
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
Official source for forms, appointments, fees, and final requirements.
- MigrantIQ visa record
Summary record maintained for planning and source verification.
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Frequently Asked Questions
This visa is designed for applicants matching Student pathway criteria.
Typical processing time is 2-6 weeks (Highly dependent on institutional vetting queues and eFNS processing backlogs)., subject to documentation quality and application volume.
Start with eligibility evidence, document checklists, and proof of funds before submitting.