Kenya eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) Guide 2026

All visitors to Kenya must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before travel. The eTA replaced the traditional visa system in January 2024. Apply online at the official portal.

African Citizens Exemption

Citizens of most African countries are now exempt from the eTA requirement and can enter Kenya visa-free for up to 2 months. Citizens of Somalia and Libya still require an eTA due to security considerations.

What is the Kenya eTA?

The Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is Kenya's digital entry permit system that replaced the previous visa regime. Key features:

  • Mandatory for all visitors including tourists, business travellers and transit passengers (with exemptions for African citizens)
  • Applied for online at etakenya.go.ke before departure
  • Single entry - valid for one entry into Kenya
  • Up to 90 days stay permitted per entry
  • Non-refundable fee of USD 35
  • Processing time: typically 48-72 hours

How to Apply for a Kenya eTA - Step by Step

  1. Visit the Official Portal

    Go to etakenya.go.ke. This is the only official website - avoid third-party sites that charge extra fees.

  2. Create an Account

    Register with your email address and create a password. You'll receive a verification email.

  3. Complete the Application Form

    Fill in your personal details, passport information, travel itinerary, and accommodation details in Kenya.

  4. Upload Required Documents

    Upload your passport bio-data page, passport-sized photograph, return flight booking, and proof of accommodation.

  5. Pay the Fee (USD 35)

    Pay using Visa, Mastercard, or other accepted payment methods. The fee is non-refundable.

  6. Receive Your eTA

    Your eTA is typically approved within 48-72 hours. You'll receive an email notification. Download and print your eTA approval.

  7. Travel to Kenya

    Present your eTA approval (printed or digital) along with your passport at the Kenya port of entry.

Required Documents

  • Valid passport - with at least 6 months validity beyond your planned arrival date and at least one blank page
  • Passport photo - recent colour photograph (JPEG format, white background)
  • Travel itinerary - confirmed flight booking or travel plans
  • Accommodation proof - hotel booking, invitation letter, or host details
  • Yellow fever certificate - if arriving from a yellow fever endemic country
  • Return/onward ticket - proof of departure from Kenya

eTA Fees

eTA TypeFeeValidityStay
Standard eTAUSD 353 months from issueUp to 90 days
Transit eTAUSD 35Single transitUp to 72 hours
East African Tourist VisaUSD 10090 daysKenya, Uganda, Rwanda

Children including infants also require an eTA. There is no reduced fee for children.

Who is Exempt from the Kenya eTA?

The following groups do not need a Kenya eTA:

  • Kenyan citizens and holders of Kenya passports
  • Citizens of most African countries (exempt since 2025, can enter for up to 2 months)
  • Diplomats and officials travelling on diplomatic/official passports on duty
  • EAC citizens with valid East African Community documents
Exceptions: Citizens of Somalia and Libya still require an eTA despite the African exemption, due to security considerations.

East African Tourist Visa

The East African Tourist Visa allows you to visit Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda on a single visa at USD 100. This is ideal for safari trips that cross borders.

  • Valid for 90 days from date of issue
  • Multiple entries between Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda
  • Apply through any of the three countries' portals
  • Must enter through the country where you applied first

Frequently Asked Questions

The Kenya eTA is typically processed within 48-72 hours. Apply at least one week before your travel date to allow for any delays. In busy periods, processing may take longer.

No. Kenya no longer issues visas on arrival. All visitors must obtain an eTA before departure. Arriving without an approved eTA may result in denied boarding or a penalty fee on arrival.

No. The USD 35 eTA fee is non-refundable, regardless of whether your application is approved or denied. The fee covers processing, not the outcome.

Yes. All visitors including infants and children must have an approved eTA before travelling to Kenya. Each person requires a separate application and payment of the USD 35 fee.

Yes. You can apply for an extension at the Immigration Department in Nairobi (Nyayo House) before your 90-day stay expires. Extensions are granted at the discretion of the Director of Immigration.

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