Electronic Travel Authorisation ( eTA )
Kenya eTA Application Guide
The Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is a mandatory digital entry requirement for most international travelers visiting Kenya. Introduced to streamline the entry process and enhance border security, the eTA replaces traditional visa applications for the majority of visitors. Whether you are traveling for tourism, business, transit, attending meetings or conferences, or engaging in short-term professional activities, obtaining an approved Kenya eTA before departure is essential to avoid boarding denial or entry refusal upon arrival.
The application process is completed online and requires travelers to submit personal information, travel details, and supporting documents for review. While the process is generally straightforward, understanding the eligibility criteria, required documentation, processing times, and applicable fees can help prevent unnecessary delays or application rejections.
What Is the Kenya eTA?
The Kenya eTA is an online travel authorization introduced by the Government of Kenya in 2023 to replace traditional visas. It allows eligible foreign nationals to obtain permission to enter Kenya without visiting an embassy or consulate. The system improves border security, reduces processing times, and simplifies entry for short-term visitors. Once approved, the eTA is electronically linked to your passport. Even travelers who previously entered Kenya visa-free must now apply for an eTA before travel.
Who Needs a Kenya eTA?
A Kenya eTA is required for travelers entering Kenya for short stays. Tourists visiting Kenya for holidays, safaris, sightseeing, or leisure must apply for a Tourist eTA and provide proof of accommodation. Business travelers attending meetings, site visits, trade fairs, or consultations must apply for a Business eTA and submit a formal invitation from a Kenyan company. Passengers transiting through Kenya and leaving the airport or staying overnight require a Transit eTA along with an onward ticket. Travelers visiting relatives or friends must provide an invitation letter and proof of the host’s legal status in Kenya. Patients seeking medical treatment must submit referral and appointment letters from both their home country and the receiving medical facility in Kenya.
Referred Visa Nationalities
Citizens of certain countries are not eligible to apply for a Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) online. Instead, they must obtain a referred visa from the Director of Immigration Services before travelling to Kenya. The referred visa process involves additional security and administrative checks, resulting in longer processing times than standard visa applications. Applicants are advised not to book or commence travel until official visa approval has been granted.
The referred visa requirement applies to nationals of Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Cameroon, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Eritrea, Iraq, Kosovo, Lebanon, Libya, Mali, Palestine, Senegal, Somalia, Syria, and Tajikistan.
Greentod Expats provides professional guidance throughout the referred visa application process, including document preparation, application review, and submission support to help ensure a smooth and compliant application.
Kenya eTA Key Information
The Kenya eTA application is completed entirely online through the official portal or approved platforms. No embassy visits or physical paperwork are required. Standard processing takes up to three business days, though delays may occur if documents are missing or unclear. The eTA is issued as a single-entry authorization and allows a stay of up to ninety days from the date of entry.
Common Kenya eTA Application Mistakes
Entering incorrect or mismatched passport details
Uploading outdated or non-compliant photographs
Failing to upload all required supporting documents
Selecting the incorrect travel purpose
Applying too close to the intended travel date
Kenya eTA Requirements
Valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity
Minimum one blank page in the passport
Passports close to expiry may result in application refusal
Recent passport-style photograph:
Taken within the last 6 months
Full-face, color photo
Plain white or off-white background
No hats, uniforms, or dark/tinted glasses
Incorrect or non-compliant photos are a common cause of rejection
Confirmed travel itinerary including:
Arrival and departure dates
Flight numbers
Return or onward ticket
Proof of accommodation:
Hotel booking confirmation or
Invitation letter from a host in Kenya
Valid yellow fever vaccination certificate (required for travelers from risk countries
ETA validity starts from the date of issuance unless otherwise stated by the relevant immigration authority.
Kenya eTA Processing Fees:
| eTA Type | Normal Processing | Expedited Processing |
|---|---|---|
| Transit eTA | US$20 | US$120 |
| Standard eTA | US$30 | US$130 |
| One-Year Multi-Entry eTA | US$300 | US$400 |
| Five-Year Multi-Entry eTA (U.S. nationals only) | US$185 | US$285 |
Kenya eTA Application Fee
Get Professional support for your Kenya eTA application at a fair and transparent fee.
from USD 90
- ~ Ksh. 11,700
- 90 Day Visa
- Full Trip itinerary
- Cover letter templates
- Consultation / Advisory
- Online form filling
- Hotel reservations
- Visa Fees
- Consular liason
Visa Fees Inclusive
Disclaimer
Greentod Visas & Travel Solutions is a Kenyan-based visas and Immigration consultancy dedicated to supporting clients through every step of their visa application & Immigration journey. While we work independently and are not affiliated with any embassy, our role is to provide guidance, document support, and application assistance. Visa issuance is solely at the discretion of the relevant embassy or immigration authority, and we do not guarantee approval or denial of any application.