A Kenya Student Pass is immigration authorization for a foreign national who has been accepted into a recognized
education or training institution in Kenya. It is processed online via eFNS and issued after approval and payment (where applicable).
Quick facts (read this first)
- Where to apply: eFNS portal (Government of Kenya SSO → eFNS → Student Pass application).
- Government fees (issuance): USD 100 per year for non-EAC nationals; EAC member states: gratis (fee-free). Always confirm the invoice shown on eFNS.
- Work/business: Student Pass is not authority to work or engage in business/trade.
- Timing: processing varies; many institutions recommend applying ~3 months before course start.
Who qualifies for a Student Pass in Kenya?
- Foreign nationals with an admission/acceptance from a recognized Kenyan institution (primary, secondary, college, university, vocational).
- Applicants undertaking internship/research may fall under Student/Research/Internship pass category (documents overlap, but requirements can differ).
Requirements for Student Pass application (official checklist, organized)
A) Required for all applicants
- Form 30 duly filled, signed and stamped by the institution’s authorized signatory.
- Cover letter from the institution addressed to the Director General/Director of Immigration Services stating the course and duration.
- Applicant passport bio-data page copy.
- Current immigration status (if applicant is already in Kenya).
- Two (2) recent passport-size color photos.
- Certified academic certificates (especially for tertiary/university entry where applicable).
- Police clearance certificate (commonly required for adults; provide from country of origin or Kenya if resident).
- Institution registration certificate (proof the institution is recognized/registered).
- Translations: any non-English documents translated by an Embassy/Public Notary/authorized institution.
B) Sponsorship / funds
- Commitment letter from sponsor/guardian (where sponsored).
- Sponsor passport bio-data page copy.
- Proof of funds for self-sponsored students (bank statements/scholarship evidence as applicable).
C) If the applicant is a minor
- Parental consent letter.
- Parent/guardian passport copy.
- Birth certificate (proof of relationship).
D) Special categories (only if applicable)
- Refugees: Clearance letter from the relevant refugee authority/department (if applicable).
- Renewals: Copy of the student pass previously held + updated institution letter + current enrollment/progress evidence if requested.
- Nigerian nationals: NDLEA clearance may be required (per official checklist note).
Pro tip (reduces delays):
Ensure names match across passport, admission letter, sponsor letter, and uploaded documents. Use clear color scans (not photos of paper) and keep file sizes reasonable.
How to apply on eFNS (step-by-step)
- Create / access your Government of Kenya Single Sign-On (SSO) account.
- Login to eFNS and select Submit Applications → Student Pass.
- Complete the online form and upload all required documents.
- Submit and monitor notifications on email/eFNS dashboard.
- Once approved, an invoice is generated under Dashboard → Payments.
- Pay online using the available payment modes (or print invoice and follow the alternative payment option where applicable).
- Download/print the issued e-pass and follow any instructions to present application printouts at Immigration HQ if required.
How much does a Student Pass cost in Kenya?
Official issuance fees: USD 100 per year for non-EAC nationals. EAC member states: gratis (fee-free).
Note: fees can be reflected on your eFNS invoice; always follow the invoice displayed after approval.
How long does Student Pass processing take?
Processing times vary depending on document completeness and internal verification. To avoid missing intake dates,
many institutions advise submitting the application about three months before commencement of studies.
Common reasons for delays (and how to avoid them)
- Form 30 not stamped/signed by institution authority.
- Cover letter missing course duration or addressed incorrectly.
- Unreadable scans, expired passport, or mismatched names.
- Missing police clearance (or wrong jurisdiction).
- Missing translation for non-English documents.
- Institution recognition/registration proof not provided.
FAQs — Student Pass Kenya
Can I work in Kenya on a Student Pass?
No. Student Pass holders are not allowed to engage in employment, trade, or business activities.
Can a Student Pass holder own shares in a Kenyan company?
Shareholding is separate from immigration status, but active work/management is not allowed on a Student Pass.
If you need to work or run a business, you typically need the appropriate permit.
Can my spouse/children stay with me in Kenya while I study?
A Student Pass is for the student. Dependants generally need their own lawful status. Kenya’s Dependant Pass is issued to dependants of
Kenyan citizens, permit holders, exempted persons, or permanent residents (eligibility depends on the sponsor category).
Can I renew my Student Pass?
Yes. Renewals are done through eFNS before expiry and usually require updated institution letters/enrollment evidence and prior pass details.