By Salma Mohamed
Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA)
All travelers must apply for a Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before entering the country. Your eTA is a mandatory online entry requirement that replaces traditional visas and must be approved before departure. Applying for an eTA is quick and easy through the official portal. Without a valid eTA, you won’t be allowed to board your flight or enter Kenya.
What is Kenya’s eTA?
The (eTA) is an online entry requirement introduced by the Kenyan government to streamline and secure border control. It replaces the old visa-on-arrival and eVisa systems. You apply through the official eTA portal get approval, and receive a digital document you’ll present on arrival.
Who needs the eTA
All travelers to Kenya, regardless of age, must obtain an approved Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before beginning their journey. This includes tourists, business travelers, and those transiting through Kenya.
However, specific individuals are exempt from this requirement. You do not need to apply for an eTA if you fall under any of the following categories:
- You hold a valid Kenyan passport or a one-way Emergency Certificate from a Kenyan mission abroad.
- You are a holder of Kenyan permanent residency, a valid work permit, or a pass.
- You already have a valid Kenya eVisa.
- You possess a valid United Nations Conventional Travel Document issued by the Government of Kenya.
- You are a diplomat or part of an international organization accredited to Kenya.
- You are a citizen of an East African Community Partner State: Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, or Uganda.
- You are transiting through Kenya and will not leave the airport premises.
- You are a passenger on a ship that arrives and departs on the same vessel without disembarking.
- You are a crew member of a ship, aircraft, train, or vehicle listed in the manifest and continuing travel.
- You own a private aircraft that is refueling without leaving the airport precincts.
If none of the above applies, you must apply for an eTA before traveling to Kenya.
Required Documents
Before you begin your eTA application, make sure you have the following:
- A valid passport, 6 months validity, and at least one blank page
- A recent selfie or passport-style photo (digital format)
- Your contact details, including a working email address and phone number
- Travel itinerary, showing your arrival and departure details
- Proof of accommodation, hotel booking, or invitation letter from your host
- Payment method: credit/debit card, for the application fee
Having these documents ready will help you complete the application smoothly and avoid delays. If you’re traveling with children, each child, even infants, will need their Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) application.
Additional Documents (Depending on Your Travel Purpose)
Depending on why you’re traveling to Kenya, you may also need to upload extra documents:
- Medical travel: Referral letter from a hospital
- Conference attendance: Invitation or participation letter
- Employment: Employment contract or related documents
- Resettlement: Supporting legal or immigration documents
- Health: Vaccination or test result certificates
For Business Travelers
- Invitation letter from the company you’re visiting
- A copy of the company’s registration certificate
For Family Visits
- Invitation letter from your host
- A copy of your host’s ID, passport, alien card, or entry permit
For Diplomatic Travel
- A diplomatic, official, or service passport
- An official letter from your government or organization
Processing usually takes about three (3) working days, but it’s wise to apply early in case of delays.
How to apply for the eTA
Here’s a step-by-step overview to help you apply without confusion:
Visit the official portal. Go to www.etakenya.go.ke. Always use the official site to avoid third-party scams.
- Create an Account: Start by registering with your email address. After verification, you’ll be ready to begin your application.
- Fill Out the Application Form: Once you’re logged in, you’ll be guided through the application form. Take your time and enter everything accurately.
- Upload Documents: Attach your passport bio page, recent photo, and other required documents. Make sure everything is clear and legible.
- Pay the Application Fee: The fee is USD 34.09, payable online via credit or debit card. The platform supports international cards.
- Submit and wait for Approval: After submission, you’ll receive an email confirming that your application has been successfully received. Approval typically takes three working days.
- Receive and download your eTA: Once approved, you will receive a PDF of your eTA via email. Print it and keep a copy on your phone. Immigration will check it when you arrive.
Important Tips
- Double-check your info before submitting. Errors can delay approval or cause denial.
- Apply early. Don’t wait until the last minute.
- If traveling in a group or with family, submit each person’s application separately, even kids.
What Happens at the Airport?
When you arrive, present your printed eTA along with your passport. Immigration officers might ask about your stay, so keep your accommodation details and return ticket accessible.
No visa stickers. No on-arrival fees. Just your passport and your approved eTA.
FAQ
- Can I still get a visa on arrival? No. Kenya phased out the visa-on-arrival. You must apply online and receive your eTA before boarding your flight.
- How long can I stay? The eTA typically allows a single entry and a stay of up to 90 days. Extensions can be requested through the immigration offices in Kenya.
- Is the eTA the same as a visa? Not exactly. It’s a pre-screening system for travelers, not a traditional visa. It permits you to enter the country just like a visa.
Avoid Travel Delays. Apply for Your eTA Today.
Kenya’s eTA system is here to make your journey easier, but it only works if you act early. Don’t wait until the last minute. Take 15–30 minutes to gather your documents and complete your application. A smooth arrival starts with early preparation.
Visit the official portal to apply: www.etakenya.go.ke
