Kenya has recently implemented a historic visa-free travel policy for international visitors along with a new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of who needs a Kenya ETA, the application requirements, step-by-step instructions, and other key details every traveler should know.
Background on Kenya’s Visa-Free Travel and ETA
In December 2023, Kenya announced that all foreign nationals can now visit without a tourist or business visa for stays up to 90 days. This groundbreaking move aims to boost tourism and make Kenya a more welcoming destination.
However, an online Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is mandatory for non-East African Community nationals visiting visa-free. Similar to the electronic systems in the USA, Canada, or Europe, the Kenya ETA allows pre-screening of travelers for security while facilitating easy entry.
Citizens of EAC member countries like Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda are exempt from the ETA requirement thanks to regional agreements.
Also check out: (Application Guide) How to Apply for a Singapore Visa as a Nigerian Citizen in 2023
Who Needs a Kenya ETA?
All international visitors to Kenya require an ETA, except citizens of the following East African Community member states:
- Kenya
- Tanzania
- Uganda
- Rwanda
- Burundi
- South Sudan
Once approved, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Somalia will also be exempt when they join the EAC.
All non-EAC citizens need to apply online for the Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization before traveling if visiting visa-free.
Kenya ETA Application Requirements
When applying for the new Kenya ETA, you’ll need to provide:
- Valid passport – must be valid for at least 6 months from date of entry with one blank page
- Digital passport photo – a scanned picture taken recently
- Confirmed hotel booking or accommodation details
- Round-trip ticket or detailed itinerary
- Yellow fever certificate – if required for your nationality
- Other health certificates – additional vaccination/test results if applicable
The Kenya ETA application form also asks for basic details like names, date of birth, travel dates, etc.
If visiting for business, you may need to provide additional documents like:
- Company invitation letter
- Company registration certificate
Be sure to check if any specific requirements apply based on your country of citizenship. For example, some nationalities need pre-travel COVID-19 testing.
Step-by-Step Kenya ETA Application
Applying for the Kenya ETA takes just 15-20 minutes online. Follow these steps:
- Go to the official ETA website at https://www.etakenya.go.ke/en
- Create an account with your email address and password
- Complete the Kenya ETA form with your details and trip information
- Upload supporting documents like passport, hotel booking, etc.
- Pay the $30 USD fee via credit/debit card or PayPal
- Check your email for ETA approval within 1-3 business days
Once approved, print or download your Kenya Travel Authorization as you’ll need to show this electronic receipt when you land in Kenya.
Also, don’t forget to pack the usual travel essentials like your passport, travel confirmations, accommodations voucher, etc.
estimating processing time
After submitting the Kenya ETA application and documents, approval usually takes 1-3 business days. However, specific nationalities may face additional screening which can prolong the process.
If you need faster authorization, expedited ETA processing is available for $50 USD. This grants approval guaranteed within 24 hours.
After Approval: Next Steps for Entry
Once you receive the official email that your Electronic Travel Authorization was issued, here’s what to do next:
- Print out the ETA approval receipt or have it accessible offline on your phone as immigration officers will check it.
- Pack your passport and other documents like tickets, hotel bookings.
- When you arrive at a Kenyan airport, head to the foreign nationals/visitors lane.
- Present your passport and ETA receipt to the immigration inspector.
- After verifying your documents you’ll receive a visa-free entry stamp granting access to Kenya for up to 90 days.
Be sure to save a copy of your ETA approval externally in case of any connectivity issues upon landing.
Other Key Kenya ETA Details
Here are some other important notes regarding Kenya’s Electronic Travel Authorization system:
- The Kenya ETA is valid for a single entry only. You must apply for a new ETA each trip.
- Length of stay allowed is 90 days maximum from date of entry.
- To extend beyond 90 days, apply for an extension locally at the Immigration Bureau in Nairobi before expiration.
- The Kenya ETA application system will grant authorizations for tourism, business, family visits, transit travel, and medical trips.
By streamlining the entry process with Electronic Travel Authorizations, Kenya is set to welcome more international visitors than ever before. Apply for your ETA as soon as you confirm travel plans for stress-free approval.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kenya ETAs
1. How early should I apply for the Kenya eVisa?
It’s recommended to complete your ETA application at least 3-5 days before departure to allow sufficient processing time. Applying 2-3 months in advance is fine too.
Last-minute applications 1-2 days before travel often face delays or denials. Apply early for peace of mind!
2. How long can I stay in Kenya with the ETA?
The maximum length of stay is 90 days from when you first enter Kenya. To extend beyond three months, you must visit an Immigration Bureau office. Citizens of certain countries cannot extend and must depart after 90 days.
3. Can I enter Kenya multiple times with one ETA?
No, the Kenya ETA is valid for one single entry only. You must apply for a brand new travel authorization each trip you take to Kenya, even if it’s just a few months apart.
4. Is the Kenya ETA available online?
Yes, the ETA for Kenya is a fully digital and online application system. There is no way to apply in-person or by mail. All travelers must use the government’s www.eta.go.ke website.
5. What happens if my ETA is denied? Can I appeal?
If your Kenya ETA application is denied, usually you will receive an email outlining the reason, for example due to passport validity or pending criminal charges. Appeals can be submitted via email but approvals cannot be guaranteed.
Apply for Your Kenya ETA Stress-Free
With Kenya’s game-changing adoption of visa-free travel access to over 100 nationalities, visiting this diverse country is easier than ever. Don’t let the ETA application deter you, just be sure to apply in advance online.
Follow our detailed guide for how to apply for Kenya’s Electronic Travel Authorization, check the entry requirements for your nationality, and enjoy a streamlined visit to this captivating destination!
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