Kenya eTA guide: what international visitors need to know

Since January 2024 Kenya no longer issues traditional visas for most visitors. Instead, travellers apply online for an electronic travel authorisation, or eTA, before they fly. It is a simple process, but we see the same mistakes every week, so here is a plain-language guide.

Who needs it

Almost everyone who is not a Kenyan citizen, including children on a parent’s passport. Citizens of the East African Community partner states are exempt, and there are exemptions for certain other African countries; the rules do change, so check the official portal or ask us before you travel.

How to apply

1. Apply only at the official government portal (etakenya.go.ke). Third-party sites charge extra and sometimes get the details wrong.
2. Have ready: a passport valid for at least six months, a clear passport photo, your flight booking, your accommodation details and a credit or debit card for the fee.
3. Apply at least three working days before you travel. Most approvals come back within 72 hours, but we recommend applying two weeks ahead to be safe.
4. Print or save the approval; you will show it at check-in and at immigration.

Common mistakes

• Using a passport with less than six months’ validity.
• Uploading a photo with glasses, a hat or a busy background.
• Entering a name that does not match the passport exactly.
• Forgetting that each child needs their own application.

Yellow fever

A yellow fever certificate is required if you are arriving from a country with a risk of transmission. If you are flying from Europe, North America or the Gulf directly, it is usually not required, but it is a sensible vaccination to have for East Africa anyway.

How we help

Every international safari we sell includes a document checklist and a reminder schedule for the eTA. If you prefer, we can complete the application with you over a call. Get in touch when you book.

eTA Kenya travel visa