The Philippines is a tropical haven, consisting of more than 7,000 islands, breathtaking lagoons, and bustling cities. For Kenyan tourists, the idea of visiting Palawan or the lively streets of Manila is now easier with the simplified online application process to apply for Philippines e-visa from Kenya. Whether you are visiting the Philippines for tourism, business, or transit, learning about the Philippines online visa application from Kenya is the starting point of your journey.

This complete guide includes everything you need to know, from requirements to processing time, to ensure that your application is approved on the first try.
Do Kenyan Citizens Need a Visa to Visit the Philippines?
Yes, Kenyan citizens must have a valid visa in order to enter the Philippines for tourism or business. Unlike some citizens who are granted visa-free entry into the Philippines, Kenyan citizens must apply for their visas through the proper channels, either through the Philippine Embassy in Nairobi or through the new Philippine e-Visa system.
What are the Different Types of Philippines Visas for Kenyans?
Selecting the correct visa is very important for your travel arrangements:
| Visa Type | Number of Entries | Max. Stay | Validity |
| Temporary Visitors Visa | Single Entry | 30 Days | 90 Days |
| Temporary Visitors Visa | Multiple Entry | 30 Days | 180 Days |
| Temporary Visitors Visa | Multiple Entry | 30 Days | 1 Year |
When Do I Need a Philippines Transit Visa?
In case the Philippines is only a transit country on your way to another country, you will need a Philippines Transit Visa.
- Requirement: This is required if your layover is more than 24 hours or if you have to leave the airport transit area to check into a hotel or switch terminals.
- Validity: The stay is only for a maximum of 72 hours.
- Requirements: You will need to show a confirmed flight ticket to your final destination and a valid visa for that country.
How Do I Apply for a Philippines Visa Online from Kenya?
This shift to an online platform has made it easier for many. Here’s how you can apply for a Philippines e-visa from Kenya:
- Fill the Application: Fill in your personal information, passport details, and travel dates.
- Upload Documents: Scan and upload the necessary documents (see the list below).
- Pay the Fees: Pay the processing fee using a credit/debit card.
- Track and Receive: After approval, your e-Visa will be delivered to your registered email address.
How Can I Apply for Philippines Immigrant Visas?
For Kenyan citizens wishing to relocate to the country for a longer period, the government has different Philippines Immigrant Visas available.
- Quotas: These are "Quota Visas" that are granted to a select few applicants annually.
- Family-Based Immigrant Visas: These are non-quota immigrant visas that are available to Kenyan citizens who are married to Filipino citizens.
- Application Process: Unlike the e-Visa, the application process for an immigrant visa involves a personal appearance at the Philippine Embassy in Nairobi.
What Documents Are Required for a Philippines Visa for Kenyans?

To prevent any delays or disqualifications, make sure you have the following documents ready in electronic form:
- Passport Bio Page: A scanned copy of your passport (valid for at least 6 months after your stay in the Philippines).
- Passport Photo: A colored photo with a white background.
- Accommodation: Hotel reservations or an invitation letter from a host in the Philippines.
- Travel Itinerary: Flight reservations indicating your entry and exit from the Philippines.
- Proof of Funds: Bank statements for the past 6 months to demonstrate your financial ability.
What are the Bank Statement Requirements for Kenyan Applicants?
The Philippine Embassy in Nairobi and various online sources ask for a Certified True Copy of your bank statements. To qualify for the requirement:
- Duration: The bank statement should cover a period of 6 months.
- Authentication: It must be stamped and signed by an authorized bank officer.
- Balance: There is no "fixed" amount, but it must show sufficient funds to cover $50-$100 per day of stay and your airfare.
- Income Evidence: Regular and steady deposits are preferred over a large "lump sum" deposited just before applying.
How Long Does the Philippines Visa Processing Take in Kenya?
- Standard Processing: 10 - 17 Working Days.
- Rush Processing: 7 - 15 Working Days.
- Super Rush Processing: 5 - 7 Working Days.
How Soon Can I Arrive in the Philippines After Visa Approval?
After your visa has been approved, the Arrival Date must be within the "Visa Validity" period. For single-entry visas, this is usually 90 days from the date of issuance. You don’t have to arrive on the "intended date" of arrival that you have indicated in your application, but you must arrive before the visa expires. If your plans have changed, make sure that your new date of arrival will enable you to finish your stay within the visa validity period.
Why Should I Use a Professional Visa Consultant?
Embassy regulations can be intimidating. This is why some travelers choose to consult professional visa consultants to avoid the chances of being rejected. Visa-philippines.info is one such platform that offers professional help in the following ways:
- 24/7 Live Chat & WhatsApp Support: Get immediate solutions to tricky queries through special support services.
- Professional Document Review: Make sure your bank statements and photos are up to the strict government requirements.
- Easy-to-Use Forms: Stay away from technical issues that may exist on official government websites.
Can I Drive in the Philippines with a Kenyan License or IDP?

If you are going to rent a car in Boracay or Palawan:
- Kenyan License: You can use your valid Kenyan driver’s license for up to 90 days from the date of your arrival, as long as it is written in English.
- International Driving Permit (IDP): It is highly recommended that you bring an IDP along with your Kenyan license. This is required by most car rental companies and insurance companies in case of an accident.
Can I Use GPay (Google Pay) for Payments in the Philippines?
Yes, Google Pay (Google Wallet) is gaining popularity in the Philippines, particularly in the larger cities of Manila, Cebu, and Boracay.
- Merchants: Large malls (SM, Robinsons), 7-Eleven convenience stores, and large restaurants accept NFC/Contactless payments.
- Kenya Link: Make sure your Kenyan bank card is supported by Google Wallet before you leave. But it is always best to have a card and PHP (Philippine Pesos) with you since some merchants will only accept cash.
Are There Special Rules for Minors on a Transit Visa?
For minors (under 18 years old) transiting the Philippines:
- Accompanied: When accompanied by a parent, a birth certificate is required.
- Unaccompanied: When alone or with someone other than a parent, an Affidavit of Support and Consent is required.
- Transit Stay: Transit visas are valid for stays of less than 72 hours. Even for transit, the Bureau of Immigration may require a Waiver of Exclusion Ground (WEG) for unaccompanied minors.
How Do I Register the Digital Arrival Card (eTravel) Before Flying?
In addition to the visa, all travelers need to register on the eTravel website.
- When: This needs to be done within 72 hours of arrival.
- How Much: The digital arrival card is FREE. Be careful of scam websites that charge for the QR code.
- What You Need to Do: After registering your flight and health information, you will be issued a Green or Red QR code to present during boarding and arrival.
Is the Philippines e-Visa Fee Refundable if Denied?
- Non-Approval: If the application is denied by the immigration authorities, the visa fee is non-refundable.
- Cancellation: If the application is cancelled before the processing begins, there is a possibility of getting a partial refund, but after the application status is marked "In Progress," the fees are non-refundable.
Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)
Q: Can I get a visa on arrival in the Philippines as a Kenyan?
No, Kenyans need to apply for a visa in advance. There is no visa on arrival for Kenyan citizens.
Q: Is the e-Visa the same as the e-Travel QR code?
No. The e-Visa is your visa, while the e-Travel is a required health/arrival declaration form submitted just before departure.
Conclusion: Is It Easy for Kenyans to Visit the Philippines?
The Philippines is a country with a unique blend of Asian and Spanish cultures, which will surely fascinate Kenyans. By using this Philippines online visa application guide, you can be sure that your trip will start smoothly. Just don’t forget to check your documents twice and have a digital copy of your e-Visa.your tropical adventure.
Comments