If you are planning to travel to Kenya, you may need to obtain a Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before starting your journey. Kenya has replaced traditional visa requirements for most foreign visitors with the eTA system.
The application is completed online through the official Kenya eTA platform.
What is a Kenya eTA?
The Kenya eTA is an electronic travel authorisation required for most foreign visitors travelling to Kenya.
Each traveller must have an approved eTA before travelling. This includes children and infants who require an eTA.
An approved eTA allows a traveller to proceed with their journey to Kenya. However, final admission into the country is determined by an immigration officer at the point of entry.
Kenya Visa Application Requirements
For most travellers, you should have the following documents and information ready:
- A valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity from the planned arrival date.
- At least one blank page in the passport.
- A recent selfie or passport-type photograph.
- Valid email address.
- Phone number and contact details.
- Arrival and departure travel details.
- Accommodation booking confirmation.
- A valid payment method, such as a debit or credit card.
Additional documents may be required depending on your reason for travelling to Kenya.
Requirements for Tourists
Tourists should generally prepare:
- Valid passport.
- Passport-type photograph or selfie.
- Travel itinerary.
- Accommodation booking confirmation.
- Email address and telephone number.
- Valid payment method.
The immigration authorities may request additional information depending on the traveller’s nationality and circumstances.
Requirements for Business Travellers
If you are travelling to Kenya for business, you may need:
- Valid passport.
- Passport-type photograph or selfie.
- Travel itinerary.
- Accommodation details.
- Invitation letter from the Kenyan company or organisation.
- Copy of the inviting company’s registration documents.
- Contact details and payment method.
Requirements for Visiting Family or Friends
Travellers visiting family in Kenya may need:
- Valid passport.
- Passport-type photograph or selfie.
- Travel itinerary.
- Accommodation information.
- Invitation letter from the family member or host.
- Copy of the host’s ID, passport, Alien Card or entry permit.
Requirements for Medical Travel
If you are travelling to Kenya for medical treatment, additional documentation may be required.
This can include a referral or appointment letter from the hospital or doctor handling the treatment.
Requirements for Conference Attendance
People travelling to Kenya to attend a conference may be required to provide a conference invitation or participation letter.
Other standard eTA documents, such as a valid passport, travel details and accommodation confirmation, may also be required.
Kenya eTA Application Process
The application is completed online.
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Have your passport, photograph, travel itinerary and accommodation details ready before starting the application.
Step 2: Visit the Official Kenya eTA Website
Use the official Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation website to start the application. The government advises travellers to apply through the official platform.
Step 3: Enter Your Details
Provide the requested personal, passport and travel information.
Check your information carefully before submitting the application.
Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents
Upload the required documents based on your travel purpose.
Step 5: Pay the Applicable Fee
Pay the applicable eTA fee using an accepted payment method.
The official eTA website currently lists the standard eTA at US$30. Other categories have different fees.
Step 6: Submit the Application
After checking your information, submit the application.
You will receive an email confirming receipt of your application and, where applicable, payment.
Step 7: Check Your Approval
Kenya eTA applications are generally processed within three working days, although some applications may take longer.
You should wait for approval before travelling.
If approved, download or print the eTA document and keep it available for your journey.
Kenya Visa Processing Time
The standard Kenya eTA processing time is generally three working days or 72 hours.
Processing may take longer if additional verification is required. An expedited option is also available for eligible applications.
It is advisable to apply well before your travel date rather than waiting until the last minute.
Common Kenya Visa Application Mistakes
Avoid these common mistakes when applying:
- Using a passport that has less than six months’ validity.
- Entering incorrect passport details.
- Providing incorrect travel information.
- Uploading unclear documents.
- Giving incomplete information.
- Applying through an unofficial website.
- Travelling before the eTA has been approved.
False or incomplete information can result in rejection of the travel authorisation.
FAQs
Do I need a visa to travel to Kenya?
For most foreign visitors, the traditional visa has been replaced by the Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA). Whether you need an eTA depends on your nationality and circumstances.
How much is a Kenya eTA?
The official Kenya eTA platform currently lists the standard eTA fee as US$30. Different eTA categories have different fees.
How long does Kenya eTA take?
Standard applications are generally processed within three working days, although some applications may take longer.
Can I apply for a Kenya eTA online?
Yes. Kenya eTA applications are submitted online through the official government eTA platform.
Can someone apply for an eTA on my behalf?
Yes. Another person can submit an application on behalf of a traveller, provided the traveller’s correct information is supplied and the required consent is obtained.
Summary
The main Kenya visa application requirements are a valid passport, recent photograph or selfie, contact details, travel itinerary, accommodation information and a valid payment method.
Additional documents depend on your purpose of travel, such as business invitations, conference letters, medical documents or family invitation letters.
Always check the official Kenya eTA platform before applying because immigration requirements, fees and exemptions can change.
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