Kenya has introduced an exciting new electronic travel authorisation (eTA) system that makes visiting the country easier than ever before.
As of January 2024, Kenya now allows visa-free entry for travelers from all countries, as long as they obtain an eTA before arrival.
This article provides a step-by-step guide to understanding and applying for the Kenyan eTA.
What is a Kenyan eTA?
The Kenyan eTA is an electronic travel authorization that allows foreign nationals to enter and travel within Kenya. It is a digital alternative to traditional visas, offering a more streamlined application process.
Who Needs a Kenyan eTA?
The eTA requirement applies to all foreign nationals except citizens of Kenya and the East African Community. EAC nationals can continue crossing borders using national IDs or passports.
All other nationalities must get approved for an eTA before traveling to Kenya.
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Do Children or Infants Also Require an eTA?
Yes, all foreign visitors must apply for an eTA. For children under the age of 18, the legal guardian, parent, or accompanying adult is responsible for filling out the application.
Families are also highly recommended to apply as a group.
Applying for Your eTA to Kenya
Applications can only be submitted through the official government website at www.etakenya.go.ke. Any third-party services are unauthorized and will lead to automatic denial. For minor travelers under 18, a parent or guardian must complete the online eTA application.
The easy step-by-step process is as follows:
- Visit www.etakenya.go.ke
- Click “Apply Now” and enter the required details
- Choose individual or group application as suitable
- Carefully enter accurate data
- Complete payment to submit the form
- Await application status updates via email
- If approved, download eTA and have it accessible when traveling
Documents Required for Kenya eTA Application
To successfully get approved for an eTA, travelers need to provide the following documents:
- Valid passport
- A recent passport picture OR a selfie taken during application process
- Contact details (home address, telephone, email)
- Travel information and flight itinerary (arrival flight number, date of departure of initial flight in case of connecting flights)
- Proof of booking for the hotel you will be staying at (if staying with friends, a letter of invitation is accepted)
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate if coming from endemic countries (please check the WHO website for the updated list of countries)
- Credit or debit card information for payment, if applicable
Some countries may require extra documents as proof of finances, health status, and return travel. Applicants should also submit any relevant letters based on their visit purpose, such as medical referral letters.
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What to Do If Your Kenyan eTA is Denied
Applicants whose eTAs get denied should immediately contact the support team at [email protected] for assistance.
Check your application status anytime on the official eTA website. Without an approved electronic travel authorization, travel to Kenya is strictly prohibited.
Kenya eTA Validity and Processing Timeframe
Standard eTA processing takes around 3 working days. There is a premium option for faster processing, if required.
For How Long is The eTA valid? Does it Expire?
The eTA is valid for one journey (single entry) only and must be redone for each additional journey. It expires once you exit the country.
Things to Note Before Applying For Your Kenyan eTA
- eTA approval does not guarantee entry permission to Kenya
- Airlines can refuse boarding without complete documentation, i.e, if you fail to present other required documents such as your passport and/or boarding pass.
- Make all bookings before submitting the eTA form
- Immediately address any payment issues to avoid processing delay
The introduction of the eTA system makes Kenya more easily accessible for global travelers while still maintaining efficient security protocols. With these simple requirements, tourists and business travelers can look forward to an easy visa-free visit to Kenya!
