Student Pass

The Kenya Student Pass is a type of visa that allows foreign students to study in Kenya. It is issued by the Kenyan government and is required for all non-Kenyan students who wish to pursue their education in the country.

The pass is typically valid for the duration of the student's course or program and can be obtained through an application process that involves providing relevant documents such as;

•  An acceptance letter from a recognized Kenyan educational institution,
• Proof of financial capability, and 
• A valid passport.

The Kenya Student Pass offers an opportunity for international students to experience education and cultural exchange in Kenya while ensuring compliance with immigration regulations.

To obtain a Kenya Student Pass, there are certain eligibility criteria that need to be met. These include:-

• The applicant need to be enrolled in a recognized educational institution in Kenya, having a valid admission letter from the institution, and demonstrating proof of financial capability to cover tuition fees and living expenses.
• The applicant (foreign student) must have a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining and provide evidence of academic qualifications while studying in Kenya.

1. Application Form 30 : Fill out the application Form 30. This form must be duly signed and stamped by an authorized personnel from the educational or training institution. You can print out the form at the end of your application process.

2. Cover Letter : Include a detailed, signed cover letter addressed to the Director of Immigration Services for both new and renewal cases. The letter should specify the course to be pursued and its duration.

3. Sponser Commitment Letter : Obtain a signed commitment letter from your sponsor and a copy of the sponsor's national passport.This applies to both new and renewal cases.

4. Proof of Funds : If you’re a self-sponsored student, provide proof of funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Kenya

5. Parental Consent (for Minors)

• If you’re a minor, include a consent letter from your parent.
• Attach a copy of your parent’s national passport and your birth certificate as proof of relationship

6. Passport and Immigration Status:

• Submit a copy of your valid national passport (the bio-data page).
• Provide information about your current immigration status if you’re already in the country.

7. Passport Photos : Include two recent passport-size color photos.

8. Academic Certificates :  Provide duly certified copies of your basic academic certificates if you’re joining tertiary institutions or universities (applies also to new cases).

9. Translation of Foreign Documents : If any of your documents are in a foreign language, have them translated into English by an embassy, public notary, or authorized/recognized institution.

10. School/College Registration Certificate : Attach a copy of the school’s or college’s registration certificate from the Ministry of Education (applies to new cases).

11. Refugee Clearance (if applicable) : If you’re a refugee, obtain a clearance letter from the Department of Refugee Affairs.

12. Progress Reports/Transcripts (for Renewal) : Include certified copies of progress reports or transcripts obtained from the issuing institution (applies to renewal cases).

13. Previous Student Pass (for Renewal) : If you’ve held a student pass previously, provide a copy of it (applies to renewal cases).

14. Police Clearance Certificate :Obtain a Police Clearance Certificate from your country of origin. If you are a resident of Kenya, you can obtain it from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations.

NOTE : Nigerian citizens must furnish an authentic National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Clearance Certificate.

To ensure a smooth process, it is recommended to submit the application for the study program 3 months in advance of the intended start date. This timeline allows ample time for review and processing of your application.

Application procedure for student pass

To begin the application process, applicants should visit the official website of the Kenya Foreign Nationals Service Portal (eFNS). Here, they will find detailed information about the requirements and procedures for obtaining an internship or research pass.

The online application procedure typically involves creating an account on the immigration department's website and filling out a designated application form.

Applicants will be required to provide personal details, such as their full name, passport information, contact details,sponsor or parents details and education institution details.

After successfully submitting your online application, it is necessary to present printed copies of the application documents at either the Immigration headquarters or the Kenyan mission abroad.

This requirement is in place to facilitate the verification and review of your application, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in the processing.

Application Fees

Non-East Africans - $ 100 per year .

East Africa Community Member States – Gratis (No Charge).

Processing Time

The processing time for a student pass applications can vary but generally takes several weeks. Applicants are advised to regularly check their email for updates on their application status.

The duration of a Kenyan student pass can vary depending on several factors, including the length of the academic program or course that the student is enrolled in. Typically, a student can only stay in Kenya for a maximum duration of 12 months.

To renew your student pass, you will need to gather certain documents such as a valid passport, a letter of acceptance from your educational institution, proof of financial support, and a copy of the student's previously held pass. Additionally, you may also be required to provide evidence of satisfactory academic progress reports or transcripts.

Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you should visit the official website of the Kenya Foreign Nationals Service Portal (eFNS) and submit your application for renewal. It is advisable to start this process well before the expiration date of your current student pass to avoid any issues or interruptions in your studies.

If you wish to extend your stay as a student beyond the initial duration granted by your student pass, you will need to follow similar procedures. You must provide relevant documentation such as an updated letter of acceptance from your educational institution and proof of financial capability to support yourself during the extended period.

When it comes to immigration regulations, it is crucial for students holding a Kenya Student Pass to understand their responsibilities. This includes abiding by the conditions stated in their pass regarding study duration and enrollment status. It is important not to overstay or engage in any activities that violate immigration laws.

While studying in Kenya, some students may also wish to work part-time for financial reasons or gaining work experience. However, it is essential to note that there are restrictions for international students who hold a Kenyan student pass. It is important for students to familiarize themselves with these regulations and obtain any necessary permits before engaging in any employment.

In conclusion, the Kenya Student Pass offers an exciting educational journey for students seeking to study in Kenya. With its streamlined application process and benefits such as discounted fees and access to various educational institutions, this pass opens doors to a world of opportunities.

Overall, the Kenya Student Pass is a valuable tool for international students looking to embark on an exciting educational journey. It provides a gateway to academic excellence, cultural immersion, and personal growth.