Effective from 1 January 2024, Kenya introduced the Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) to simplify the entry process for foreign travellers. This system requires travellers to obtain online travel authorisation before departure, replacing the previous visa system and helping streamline border procedures upon arrival.
Types of Kenya eTAs
The following are the types of Kenya eTA:
- Tourist eTA: It permits travellers to explore tourist places in the country.
- Business eTA: It permits travellers to attend international business meetings in Kenya.
- Transit eTA: For travellers passing through Kenya towards their final destination.
- Medical eTA: For travellers entering the country for medical care.
- Family Visit: Allows meeting family members and friends in Kenya.
- Religious eTA: Allows travelling to the country for attending religious events or ceremonies.
- Conference eTA: Travellers going to attend any kind of conference or seminar in Kenya.
- Student eTA: Travellers who plan to study in a recognised Kenyan education institution.
- Work eTA: Allows travellers to take up employment or to work in the country.
- Crew eTA: Allows airline and maritime crew members to travel to Kenya for official duties.
- Positioning Crew eTA: Allows positioning crews to travel to Kenya to join their assigned duty.
- Seaman eTA: Allows seafarers and maritime crew to travel to Kenya to join or leave a vessel.
What happens if my eTA application is denied?
If the application is denied, the applicant will be notified. Depending on the reason for the
decision, you may submit a new application with the correct information or seek guidance on other
available entry options.
Application Process for the Kenya eTA
Complete the Kenya eTA Application Form
Fill out the Kenya eTA application form with your travel and general details.
Upload Documents and Pay
Upload the required documents and pay the applicable fee using an accepted payment method.
Receive the Kenya eTA
Once your application is processed, the approved eTA will be sent to your registered email address.
Can I change my eTA details after approval?
No. Once the eTA has been approved, the information cannot be changed. A new application is required
if any details need to be updated.
How will I know if my eTA application was submitted successfully?
A confirmation email is sent after the application is submitted. If not received
within a few hours, check the spam folder or contact the Kenya eTA support to
confirm the submission.
Kenya eTA Validity and Stay Duration
All Kenya eTAs except transit eTAs allow following validity and stay duration.
- eTA (90 Days): Single-entry, staying period of 90 days.
- eTA (1 Year): Multiple-entry, staying period of 90 days per visit.
US Citizens are not eligible to apply for 1 year valid eTA instead they can apply for: - eTA (5 years): Multiple entry, staying period of 90 days per visit.
Kenya Transit eTA
- eTA (90 days): Single entry, staying period of 3 days (72 hours).
- eTA (1 Year): Multiple entry, staying period of 90 days per visit.
Processing Options for the Kenya eTA
Standard Processing: 3-5 Days
- For travellers who have plenty of time
Rush Processing: 2 - 3 Days
- For those who need to leave quickly
Super Rush Processing: 1 - 2 Days
- For those who need to leave immediately
Requirements for the Kenya eTA
The Kenya eTA requirements include the following documents:
- A scanned copy of the passport bio page.
- A recent photograph
- Proof of booking confirmation
- Round trip travel ticket
Any additional supporting documents as specified during the application process. Applicants should ensure that all required documents are prepared in advance to facilitate a smooth submission.
Why Apply for a Kenya eTA?
- Seamless Online Process: The entire application is completed online, eliminating the need to fill out manual forms upon arrival.
- Advance Travel Approval: Travellers must apply for the Kenya eTA at least 5 days before departure and obtain approval prior to travel.
- Streamlined Entry Experience: The system improves border processing, helping reduce waiting times and enhancing overall airport efficiency.
- Single Application, Multiple Submission: The system also allows applicants to add multiple travellers within a single application using the “Add Applicant” option.
Content Disclaimer: Information on this page is current as of August 2026. Applicants should verify all travel and entry requirements with the relevant authorities and carriers before travelling.