Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA)
The Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) is an online travel approval system introduced by the Government of Kenya to facilitate the entry of eligible international visitors into the country. It allows travellers to submit their travel information and supporting documents electronically before departing for Kenya.
Kenya welcomes tourists, business travellers, visitors attending conferences, and people visiting family and friends. Most foreign nationals travelling to Kenya are required to obtain an approved eTA before commencing their journey, although certain nationalities and categories of travellers are exempt under Kenya's immigration regulations.
The eTA application process is completed online through the official government portal. Applicants are generally required to provide a valid passport, personal information, travel itinerary, accommodation details and other supporting documents depending on the purpose of their visit.
Key requirements for Kenya eTA
Applicants may be required to provide:
-
A valid passport with at least six months' validity from the intended date of arrival.
-
A recent passport photograph or selfie.
-
Confirmed travel itinerary or return ticket.
-
Hotel reservation or accommodation address.
-
Contact details, including email address and telephone number.
-
Supporting documents explaining the purpose of travel, where applicable.
-
Additional documentation depending on nationality and travel circumstances.
How to apply for Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation
The application process involves the following steps:
-
Visit the official Kenya eTA website: https://www.etakenya.go.ke/
-
Select the appropriate application category.
-
Enter your personal and passport information.
-
Provide your travel dates, accommodation and intended purpose of visit.
-
Upload the required supporting documents.
-
Pay the applicable application fee.
-
Submit your application for review.
-
Check your email or application portal for the decision.
-
Download or save your approved eTA before travelling.
Processing time and approval
Applicants should apply well in advance of their intended travel dates. Standard processing generally takes approximately three working days, although additional checks may take longer. Approval of an eTA does not automatically guarantee admission into Kenya, as the final entry decision rests with immigration authorities at the point of arrival.
Who needs a Kenya eTA?
The requirement generally applies to foreign visitors travelling to Kenya for tourism, business, family visits and other permitted short-term purposes. However, exemptions apply to certain nationalities, residents and other categories under Kenya's immigration rules.
Travellers should confirm their eligibility before submitting an application.
Important information for tourists visiting Kenya
Visitors should ensure that their passports are valid, their travel documents are complete and their eTA has been approved before departure. Depending on their country of origin, they may also need a yellow fever vaccination certificate.
Tourists are encouraged to familiarise themselves with Kenya's immigration requirements to ensure a smooth arrival and enjoyable stay.
Apply through the official government portal: https://www.etakenya.go.ke/
