ESSENTIAL TRAVEL INFO

Kenya E-Visa Guide

All You Need to Know About the Kenya E-Visa 

All You Need to Know About the Kenya E-Visa 

All travelers, including minors and infants, must secure an approved Kenya e-visa before departing for the country. Please ensure you only apply through the official government portal: www.etakenya.go.ke. Applications sent through unofficial third-party services will be rejected. For travelers under 18, parents or legal guardians are responsible for completing the application.

Standard processing takes up to three (3) business days, though delays may occur. If you need faster service, you can request priority processing for expedited approval. For help with your application, contact the Kenya Immigration Department by email at etakenya@ecitizen.go.ke or via WhatsApp at +254 110 922 064

Required Documents

Gather the following documents before you start your application for your Kenya e-visa:

All Travelers:

  • Passport valid for at least six (6) months beyond your arrival date, with at least one blank page
  • A passport-style photo or selfie
  • Email address and phone number
  • Details of your travel plans (arrival/departure)
  • Proof of accommodations
  • Payment method (credit or debit card)

Additional Documents Depending on Your Nationality and Residence:

  • Proof of financial means (bank statement or official letter)

Depending on Your Purpose of Travel:

  • Medical referral letter if seeking treatment
  • Conference or event invitation
  • Employment contract if relocating for work
  • Resettlement documentation
  • Vaccination certificates or test results

If Traveling for Business:

  • Company invitation letter
  • Copy of the company’s registration certificate

If Visiting Friends or Family:

  • Invitation letter from your host
  • Host’s ID, passport, or residence permit copy

Diplomatic Travel:

  • Diplomatic, service, or official passport
  • Official letter from your government or organization


Application Steps

Follow these steps to complete your Kenya e-visa application:

  1. Upload the passport bio page
  2. Take and submit a selfie using your device
  3. Fill in your contact information
  4. Enter your travel and accommodation details
  5. Complete general personal information
  6. Make any required customs declarations
  7. Provide health details
  8. Share travel insurance information
  9. Upload supporting documents 
  10. Review and agree to terms and conditions

Total Cost:

The application fee is $32.50 USD, plus a bank fee of $1.59 USD (total $34.09 USD). [*subject to terms & conditions]

Types of Kenya e-Visas

Kenya offers several categories of e-Visas to suit different travel purposes:

  • Single-Entry Visa
  • For tourism, business, or medical visits
  • Valid for up to 90 days from the date of issue

Transit Visa

  • For travelers connecting through Kenya to another country
  • Valid for up to 72 hours (3 days)
  • Not required if you remain in the airport transit area

Courtesy Visa

  • For holders of diplomatic, official, or service passports traveling for official duties or transit
  • Issued free of charge

East Africa Tourist Visa

  • Joint visa allowing travel between Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda
  • Valid for 90 days and multiple entries within the three countries
  • Must be applied for in the country of first entry

Important:

Kenya discontinued the standard eVisa in January 2024 and replaced it with the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for most travelers.

However, the East Africa Tourist Visa remains available for eligible applicants. Be sure to confirm which authorization you require before applying.

Who Is Exempt From a Kenya e-visa?

The following individuals are not required to obtain an eTA:

  • Kenyan passport holders or those with a Kenyan Emergency Certificate
  • Permanent residents and holders of valid work permits or passes
  • Holders of valid Kenya eVisas
  • Individuals with UN Travel Documents issued by Kenya
  • Accredited diplomats and staff of international organizations (exempt from payment)
  • Citizens of East African Community countries (Burundi, DR Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda) – exempt for up to six (6) months
  • Travelers transiting without leaving the airport or ship
  • Crew members listed on official manifests
  • Private aircraft owners stopping only for refueling without exiting the airport

Benefits of the Kenya e-visa

  • Apply securely online from anywhere before your trip
  • Avoid completing paperwork on arrival or in transit
  • Airlines and transport providers can confirm your authorization before departure
  • Streamlined arrival process, reducing queues and wait times
  • Part of Kenya’s nationwide initiative to digitize travel processes

Terms & Conditions

Non-Refundable Fees

Once your application is submitted and payment has been processed, the eTA fee is non-refundable and non-transferable, regardless of the outcome of your application or any changes in your travel plans, including force majeure events.

Accuracy of Information

All information provided must be accurate and complete. Submitting incorrect or incomplete details may result in denial of your eTA or entry into Kenya.

Limitation of Liability

We strive to provide up-to-date and reliable information; however, we disclaim liability for any loss, damage, or inconvenience arising from use of this website or reliance on its contents. Travelers are responsible for ensuring they meet all entry requirements before departure.

Minors

Parents, legal guardians, or accompanying adults must ensure that all details submitted for minors under 18 are true and complete.

Privacy Policy

Personal data provided through the eTA process will be securely processed by the Government of Kenya and its designated partners, including Travizory Border Security SA, in compliance with applicable data protection regulations.

Provision of Information

By submitting your application, you consent to your personal information being used to assess your eligibility to travel, to contact you before and during your stay, and for official record-keeping purposes. Failure to provide required information will prevent processing of your eTA application.

Application Revisions

You can edit your eTA application prior to final submission. After payment, changes are not possible and a new application (with a new fee) may be necessary.

Kenya e-Visa FAQs

What is the Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)?

The eTA is an online travel permit required for all foreign visitors to enter Kenya.

How long is the eTA valid?

An approved eTA is valid for 90 days from the date of issue.

Does the eTA allow multiple entries?

No, it is generally issued for a single entry. You must apply again for re-entry.

I’m not staying in a hotel. How should I complete the accommodation section?

Provide details of your host and their address. You may need an invitation letter.

Who operates the eTA platform?

The platform is operated by the Government of Kenya in partnership with Travizory Border Security SA.

What if my eTA is refused?

You will be notified with reasons for denial and may reapply after addressing any issues.

I am a citizen of an EAC country. Am I exempt?

Yes, citizens of Burundi, DR Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda are exempt for stays up to six months.

Should I use other websites promising faster processing?

No. Only applications through the official website are valid. Other services are unauthorized.

Is my credit card information secure?

Yes. Payment is processed securely through authorized banking partners.

How does the government protect my data? Who can access it?

Data is stored securely and accessed only by authorized immigration and border control authorities.

Is there an urgent processing option?

Yes, expedited processing is available at an extra fee.

I can’t find my occupation. What should I select?

Choose “Other” and enter a description, or select the closest category.

Do diplomats or UN passport holders need to pay?

Diplomatic and UN passport holders are exempt from payment.

Can I apply using my national ID?

No. A valid passport is required.

Who must obtain an eTA?

All travelers, including infants and children, must have an eTA unless exempt.

Do children need an eTA?

Yes. A separate application is required for each child.

Can I cancel my eTA application?

No. Once submitted and paid, it cannot be canceled or refunded.

I’m already at the airport. Can you process my application immediately?

No. Applications cannot be approved on arrival. You must apply in advance.

My name is spelled incorrectly. How do I correct it?

You’ll need to submit a new application with the correct details.

I can’t find my address. What should I do?

Enter your address manually or use the nearest recognized location.

Do I need vaccinations?

A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate may be required depending on your departure country.

What information is required?

You’ll need passport details, contact info, travel plans, accommodation, and payment information.

How do I contact someone?

Email etakenya@ecitizen.go.ke or WhatsApp +254 110 922 064.

Does an eTA guarantee entry?

No. Final permission is granted by Kenyan immigration officers on arrival.

Can my selfie be black and white?

No. Your photo must be in color.

My eTA has errors. What can I do?

Submit a new application with the correct information.

Do I need an eTA if my spouse is Kenyan?

Yes. All non-citizens must apply unless exempt.

How long is my data stored?

Data is retained as required by Kenyan law.

How do I apply?

Visit etakenya.go.ke, create an account, and follow the prompts.

I need to change my travel dates. What should I do?

You must apply for a new eTA reflecting your updated itinerary.

Can I visit other countries with this eTA?

No. The Kenya eTA is only valid for entry into Kenya.

I’m retired or unemployed. What should I enter as occupation?

Select “Unemployed,” “Retired,” or the closest applicable option.

Can I use an East Africa Tourist Visa instead?

Yes. An East Africa Tourist Visa is valid for Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda.

How do I check my application status?

Log into your account at etakenya.go.ke to track progress.

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