Arrival Card
Definition
An arrival card is a short immigration form that many countries, including Kenya, require travelers to complete when entering the country. It typically asks for basic personal details, passport information, flight numbers, and where you will be staying. Filling it out accurately and keeping it ready with your passport helps speed up the immigration process and reduces delays at the border.
Before you travel, check whether you need to complete the arrival card online in advance, on the plane, or upon landing. Note exactly which details are required, such as your first night’s address, contact information, and onward travel plans, so you can have them to hand. Preparing this information ahead of time makes it easier to pass through immigration, proceed to baggage collection, and continue to your connecting flight, transfer vehicle, or hotel check‑in.
Since the arrival card is part of your travel documentation, keep it with your passport, visa confirmation, and other key papers in your carry‑on rather than your checked luggage. A simple folder or document wallet helps keep everything organized and protected. Pack a pen in your hand luggage so you can complete any forms distributed during the flight, and consider keeping a small list of important details—such as your accommodation names and contact numbers—in both digital and printed formats.
Allow extra time in your itinerary for completing and presenting your arrival card, particularly if you are landing at peak hours, traveling with a group, or connecting to domestic flights shortly after arrival. Make sure that the information you provide matches your other travel documents to avoid unnecessary questions or delays. If any entry requirements change close to your departure, update your paperwork and confirm the latest process with your airline or safari operator. For families, fill in children’s cards in advance where allowed, keep documents together but clearly labeled, and store emergency contacts in your phone and in your document folder so they are easy to access if needed.