Quick answer: Since January 2024, Kenya no longer issues visas on arrival. Every visitor (with a short list of exemptions) must apply online for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before boarding their flight. Apply at least 7 days before departure at etakenya.go.ke, pay the USD 30 fee, and print or save the approved PDF to show at check-in and immigration.
● System: Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) — replaced visa-on-arrival and the old eVisa
● Where to apply: etakenya.go.ke (the only official portal — avoid third-party sites)
● Cost: USD 30 for a single-entry eTA (a multiple-entry option is also available for frequent travelers)
● Processing time: Typically 2–5 business days; up to 7 during peak season (July–October, December–January)
● Stay allowed: Up to 90 days per entry for tourism
1. Who Needs a Kenya eTA
Most international visitors need an approved eTA before they travel, including tourists, business travelers, and transit passengers who plan to leave the airport during a layover.
A few groups are exempt:
Citizens of Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, DRC, and Somalia can enter with a national ID or passport under East African Community rules
Citizens of many African Union member states can now enter visa-free for short stays
Travelers only transiting airside, with a connection within a few hours, may not need a transit eTA — check with your airline first
Everyone else, including children and infants, needs their own approved eTA and must pay the fee separately.
2. Documents You’ll Need
Before you start the application, have these ready as digital files:
Passport bio-data page — a clear scan or photo, with at least 6 months’ validity remaining beyond your planned stay
Passport-style photo — recent, plain white background, JPEG format
Travel details — flight dates, arrival airport, and full itinerary
Proof of accommodation — hotel booking, safari itinerary, or host details for your first night
Yellow Fever certificate — only if arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic country (not required for direct flights from places like the UK, US, or most of Europe)
3. Step-by-Step Application Process
Go to ETA online. This is the only legitimate site. Third-party services often charge far more than the official fee for the same application.
Register with a valid email address and create a password. Check your spam folder for the verification link if it doesn’t arrive quickly.
Fill in the form with your legal name exactly as it appears on your passport, passport number, nationality, date of birth, travel dates, entry point, and Kenya accommodation address.
Upload your documents — passport bio-data page, photo, and proof of accommodation.
Pay the fee (USD 30) by Visa, Mastercard, or American Express.
Wait for approval, which typically arrives by email as a PDF within 2–5 business days.
Print or save the approved eTA to present alongside your passport at check-in and at the immigration counter in Kenya.
4. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Name mismatches. Enter your name, including middle names, in exactly the same order and spelling as your passport. Even a single character difference can trigger a manual review.
Applying too late. Submit at least 2–3 weeks before departure, and earlier during peak safari season, when processing can take up to 7 business days.
Using third-party websites. These often charge significantly above the USD 30 government fee for a service you can complete yourself in under 20 minutes.
Skipping the accommodation field. Have your first night’s hotel or safari lodge address ready — a placeholder or blank entry can delay approval.
5. What to Expect on Arrival
Bring a printed or digital copy of your approved eTA along with your passport. Immigration officers at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (or your port of entry) will cross-check the eTA against your passport details, so make sure the two match exactly. As of 2026, Kenya has no COVID-19 testing, vaccination, or quarantine requirements for entry.
FAQs
Can I get a Kenya visa on arrival?
No. Kenya discontinued visa-on-arrival in January 2024 when the eTA system launched.
How much does the Kenya eTA cost?
USD 30 for a single-entry eTA. This fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied.
How long before my trip should I apply?
At least 7 days is the stated minimum, but applying 2–3 weeks ahead gives you a buffer, especially during peak safari season (July–October, December–January).
Can I extend my stay beyond 90 days?
Yes. Apply at the Department of Immigration Services (Nyayo House, Nairobi) before your 90 days expire. Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration officers, generally up to a maximum of 6 months total.
Do children need their own eTA?
Yes. Every traveler, including infants, needs a separate application and the USD 30 fee.
Requirements and fees can change — always confirm the latest details at the official portal, etakenya.go.ke, before you apply.