Visa and Immigration Process for Ethiopian Students Studying in Kenya 🇪🇹✈️🇰🇪

Thinking about studying in Nairobi or another Kenyan city? Good news—Ethiopian students enjoy a relatively smooth immigration process thanks to strong Ethiopia–Kenya relations and East African cooperation. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you navigate your journey with confidence.

✅ 1. No Visa Required for Entry (Short-Term)

Ethiopian passport holders do not need a visa to enter Kenya for up to 90 days. This means:

• You can travel to Nairobi without applying for a visa beforehand
• It’s perfect for college visits, short courses, or entrance exams

However, if you’re enrolling in a longer academic program, you’ll need a Student Pass.

🎓 2. Applying for a Kenyan Student Pass

A Student Pass is an official permit that allows foreign nationals to study in Kenya. Here’s how to apply:

Step-by-Step:

1. Get Admission
   First, apply and get your admission letter from your chosen institution (e.g., Delight Technical College).
2. Gather Documents
   You’ll need:
   • A copy of your valid passport
   • Passport-size photos
   • A copy of the admission letter
   • Proof of payment for tuition
   • A filled student pass application form (usually provided by the institution)
3. Submit via the eCitizen Portal
   • Go to eCitizen
   • Create an account and select Department of Immigration Services
   • Apply for a Student Pass
   • Pay the applicable fee (approx. USD 50–100 depending on duration)
4. Wait for Approval
   Processing can take 2–4 weeks, so apply early.

🛬 3. Arriving in Nairobi

At the airport:

• Show your passport, admission letter, and explain your study purpose
• If your Student Pass is still processing, carry a copy of the receipt or tracking info

💡 4. Helpful Tips

• Apply for the Student Pass as soon as you receive your admission letter
• Most institutions (like Delight) will guide you through the process
• Always keep multiple copies of your documents with you
• Once approved, the Student Pass is usually valid for 1 year and can be renewed

📍 Bonus: What Else You Might Need

• Kenyan SIM card (for local communication & M-Pesa payments)
• Student accommodation (your college can help)
• A bank account (optional, but useful if staying long-term)

🗣️ Need Help?

If you’re applying to Delight Technical College, they offer student visa support services for Ethiopian students. They’ll help with:

• Document preparation
• eCitizen registration
• Follow-ups with immigration

In short:
✅ You don’t need a visa to enter Kenya for short stays
📄 But for full-time study, a Student Pass is essential
🤝 Your college can help you get it easily