Kenya Evisa / ETA Fees & Information
Apply for your Kenya ETA securely online
and get it within 3 days!
All visitors to Kenya including infants and children who intend to travel to the Republic of Kenya must have an approved Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before the start of their journey.
Please note that the official ETA application website is www.etakenya.go.ke
Apply for your your Kenya eTA / Evisa
It is mandatory to use the Government’s official website to submit your application. Applications submitted via third party websites will be automatically denied. For children under the age of 18, the legal guardian, parent or accompanying adult is responsible for filling the application.
Processing time is three (3) working days but in some cases it may take longer. If you need your application processed faster, you can choose expedited processing to receive priority service.
If you need any assistance regarding your application, please email Kenya Immigration department on etakenya@ecitizen.go.ke , or WhatsApp +254 110 922 064.
APPLY FOR YOUR KENYA EVISA/ETA
Please have the following documents ready before starting your application.
For all travellers
- Valid passport for at least six (6) months after your planned date of arrival into Kenya, with at least one blank page
- Selfie or passport-type photo
- Contact information, email address and phone number
- Details of your arrival and departure itinerary
- Accommodation booking confirmation(s)
- Credit card, debit card or other means of payment
Based on your country of residence and citizenships the following may also be required:
- Financial assets / banks letter(s)
Based on your purpose of visit the following may also be required:
- Letter and/or appointment letter from the referring doctor/hospital
- Conference invitation/participation letter
- Employment contract
- Supporting documents for resettlement
- Vaccination(s) or test results certificates
For travellers arriving for business
- Invitation letter from company
- Copy of registration of the company
For travellers visiting family
- Invitation letter from family/host
- Identity card/Passport/Alien card/Entry permit of the family member/host
For Diplomatic travel
- A Diplomatic, Official and Service passport
- An official letter from the Country of Origin/Organisation/ Foreign Affairs.
Application Steps for Your Convenience:
- Upload the information page of your passport.
- Capture a selfie using your webcam.
- Fill in your contact details.
- Provide your arrival, departure, and accommodation details in Kenya.
- Complete the general information section.
- Make a customs declaration.
- Complete the health declaration.
- Provide your travel insurance information.
- Upload your accommodation booking confirmation and flight ticket/confirmation.
- Add any additional documents if required.
- Agree to the terms and conditions.
Total Cost: The standard processing fee is $32.50, plus a bank fee of $1.59, totaling $34.09.
Remember, Kenya is waiting for you with open arms and a heart full of adventure. If you have any questions or need assistance, we are always here to help make your African safari dream a reality!
Persons who are exempt from obtaining the Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA)
- Holders of valid Kenya Passports or one-way Emergency Certificate issued by Kenya Missions abroad.
- Holders of Kenya Permanent Residence, valid Work Permits and Passes.
- Holders of valid Kenya eVISAs
- Holders of valid United Nation Conventional Travel Document issued by the Government of Kenya.
- Members of the Diplomatic Missions and International Organisations Accredited to Kenya (exempt from payment only).
- Citizens of the East African Partner States; These countries include Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda. (Exempted for Six (6) months)
- All passengers in transit through Kenya arriving and leaving by the same aircraft or transferring to another aircraft and who do not leave the precincts of Airports in Kenya.
- All passengers arriving and leaving by the same ship, and who do not leave the ship.
- Members of crew of any ship, aircraft, train, vehicle or carrier; whose name and particulars are included in the crew manifest of the ship, aircraft, train, vehicle or carrier; and who is proceeding in such ship, aircraft, train, vehicle or carrier to a destination outside Kenya.
- Owners of private aircraft stopping over for refuelling in Kenya and who do not leave the precincts of the airport.
Benefits of Kenya eTA system
- Kenya eTA enables travellers to submit all relevant information and documentation from the comfort of their homes before starting their trip. Travellers can enjoy peace of mind knowing that they meet the requirements for travel to Kenya.
- Travellers do not need to fill out forms on the plane or upon arrival.
- Transport carriers can easily verify that travellers have been authorised to travel by the Government of the Republic of Kenya and are in possession of an approved eTA.
- Kenya eTA will improve arrival processes into the Republic of Kenya by reducing the queues on arrival for health, customs, and immigration inspections.
- Kenya eTA supports the efforts of the Republic of Kenya to digitise its government processes.
By using our services, you agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions (“Terms”). Please read these terms carefully.
Your eTA application fee is non-refundable
Once you submit your eTA application, the fee is non-refundable, and you cannot transfer it to another person. This is also true if your eTA is denied or if for any reason, including a force majeure, there are deviations to your planned journey.
Disclaimer
We have taken all reasonable care to ensure that the information provided to you is adequate. We disclaim and exclude all liability for any claim, loss, demand, or damage of any kind arising out of or in connection with this website. All risks associated with the use of this website are assumed by the user.
Accuracy of content
To our best knowledge and intentions, the information on this website is continuously updated and true.
Minors
Parents, legal guardians, or accompanying adults are responsible for information submitted when applying for the Republic of Kenya eTA.
Privacy policy
The Government of the Republic of Kenya uses third parties to process the data it collects. One of its processors is Travizory Border Security SA. Its use of the information that you provide to the Government of the Republic of Kenya is governed by its privacy policy.
Links to third party websites
We are not responsible for the content, reliability, and accuracy of third-party websites found through links on this website.
Links from third party websites to this one
If you create links from other websites to this one, do not use them in any context that implies an association, affiliation, or endorsement of your website, product, or service.
Copyright
You may not reproduce materials on this website for commercial reasons without prior permission from Travizory Border Security SA.
Provision of information
By providing personal information, you agree that your information will be used for the purpose of determining your eligibility to travel, being able to contact you prior to travelling, while in the country, and post travel. If you do not provide the requested information the Government of the Republic of Kenya will not be able to process your request, and you will be prohibited from travelling to the Republic of Kenya.
Your eTA application can be modified prior to submission.
Prior to submitting an application with the required payment information, you can correct all application data fields. If an applicant applied with mistakes, he or she might need to submit a new application. The associated fee will be charged for each new application submitted.
KENYA EVISA/ETA FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA)?
Kenya eTA is a semi-automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to Kenya. An eTA offers permission to travel and is authorised by the Government of the Republic of Kenya. An eTA does not determine whether a traveller is admissible to enter Kenya. Immigration officers will determine admissibility upon travellers’ arrival.
The eTA application collects biographic information and answers to eligibility questions from the traveller. Applications are usually processed within 3 days, but in some cases it may take longer. You can also choose the expedited processing if you need your application processed faster. We recommend applying for your eTA 2 weeks prior to travel. Travellers can submit their applications up to 3 months prior to travel. It is highly recommended that travellers apply as soon as they have booked their accommodations and transport tickets.
How long is the eTA valid for?
Your eTA is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance and you must travel during this period. It is only required for entry into Kenya and can only be used once. There is no need to re-apply for an eTA if it expires whilst you are in Kenya.
Does the eTA allow for multiple entries to Kenya?
Your eTA is valid for a single entry into Kenya. However, there are some exceptions to this.
Your eTA remains valid for more than one entry if:
- You visit one of the following EAC Partner States: Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda, AND;
- You don’t visit any other country, AND;
- Your eTA has not expired (90 days from issuance)
You can also apply for a multiple entry eTA based on your nationality. Currently, the multiple entry eTA is valid for 1 or 5 years.
I will not be staying in a hotel during my trip, how do I complete my eTA?
Every traveller to Kenya must have valid accommodation for their stay. This can be a hotel booking or, if you are staying with friends and family, a letter of invitiation from the host.
Who owns the eTA platform?
The Kenya eTA is owned by the Government of the Republic of Kenya. It is a semi-automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to Kenya. An eTA offers permission to travel and is authorised by the Government of the Republic of Kenya. An eTA does not determine whether a traveller is admissible to enter Kenya. Immigration officers will determine admissibility upon travellers’ arrival.
The eTA application collects biographic information and answers to eligibility questions from the traveller. eTA applications for Kenya should be submitted at least 3 days prior to travel to ensure adequate time for authorisation. Travellers can submit their applications up to 3 months prior to travel. It is highly recommended that travellers apply as soon as they have booked their accommodations and transport tickets.
What do I do if I am refused the eTA?
If your application has been denied, you will not be allowed to travel at this moment. Contact etakenya@immigration.go.ke to report your situation and obtain further details.
I am a resident of an EAC country, am I exempt from the eTA?
If you are a resident but not a passport holder of the following EAC countries, you are still required to complete an eTA: Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda.
There are other websites offering faster processing, shall I use it
This is the official government website (https://etakenya.go.ke) for the Kenya eTA.
We do not recommend using any third party websites to apply for your eTA. These websites will charge you significantly more money and they cannot guarantee faster processing.
Is my credit card information safe?
Yes. The Kenya eTA system is PCI compliant, encrypts all data transmission and does not store your credit card or payment information. Kenya eTA uses Stripe.com, one of the world leading and most secure payment gateway. The account holder of the Stripe payment implementation is Travizory Border Security SA, Avenue de la Gare 24, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland.
How does the Government protect the privacy of the eTA data, and who has access to it?
The Republic of Kenya has taken all the necessary steps to protect your data. Please refer to the Government’s Privacy Policy to get more information.
Do you have an urgent application process?
If you need your application approved urgently, you can have your application processed faster by selecting Urgent processing.
I cannot find my occupation in the list, how can I proceed?
If you cannot find your occupation in the list, please select the closest option that relates to your current profession.
Do I need to pay for my eTA as a diplomat, UN or Laissez Passer holder?
If you are a diplomat, foreign delegate (including UN officials) or a Laissez Passer document holder, you are not required to pay for your standard eTA, but you may wish to pay for a faster service.
Can I apply for my eTA using my national ID card?
To apply for the eTA, you must have a valid passport. You cannot apply using a national ID card.
Who must obtain the eTA?
The eTA is mandatory for all foreign visitors. Passport holders from the following EAC countries are exempted from applying to an eTA: Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda.
Each eligible traveller is required to apply for an eTA before starting travel. It is mandatory to use the Government’s official website to submit your application. Applications submitted via third party websites will be automatically denied. For children under the age of 18, the legal guardian, parent or accompanying adult is responsible for filling the application.
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 in the application. We highly recommend that families apply as a group.
Can I cancel my eTA application?
Unfortunately, there is no way to cancel your eTA application once it has been submitted.
I'm at the airport, can you approve my application urgently?
If you are at the airport and need your eTA approved urgently, you can have your application processed faster by selecting Urgent processing.
My name is incorrect on my eTA, how can I change it?
We capture your name as it’s written in your passport. Where names are long in length, some of the characters might be cut off or omitted. In these cases, your eTA will remain valid.
If you notice there are incorrect letters in your name, please contact etakenya@immigration.go.ke for further assistance.
I can't find my home address when filling in the application, how can I proceed?
If you cannot find your home address when completing the application, please ensure that you have selected the correct Country of Residence when starting the application.
Do I need any vaccinations to enter the country?
There are currently no vaccination requirements to enter Kenya.
What information is required to apply for an eTA?
Before you apply your eTA, you will be required to have the following information and documentation:
- Valid passport
- Recent passport style picture OR a selfie picture 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)
- Host ID, if applicable
- Credit/Debit card information for payment, if applicable
How can I contact someone about my application?
If you need any assistance regarding your application, please email us at etakenya@immigration.go.ke or call us on +254 202 222 022. For urgent queries, please use our live chat to be connected to a Customer Support Agent.
Does an eTA guarantee permission to travel?
No. An eTA is permission from the Government to travel to the Republic of Kenya and it is obligatory to present a valid eTA during the check-in and boarding process. However, you may still be denied boarding by your carrier if you fail to present other required documents such as your passport and/or boarding pass.
In addition, you might be subjected to questioning at the point of departure or arrival. This might result in you being denied access to the means of transport.
My selfie is in black and white, will that cause a problem with my application?
Black and white photos are acceptable and will not cause issues with your application.
My eTA has been approved but my details are incorrect, how can I change it?
If there are details that are incorrect or wrong on your valid eTA, such as your name or passport information, please contact us via live chat.
Do I have to apply for an eTA if I am a foreign citizen but my spouse is Kenyan?
Yes. All foreign visitors must apply for an eTA unless they are holders of valid Kenya Permanent Residence, Work Permits and Passes.
For how long is my application data stored?
Please refer to the Government’s Privacy Policy to get more information.
How do I apply for the eTA?
The Government of Kenya has made this website available as a secure platform for the purpose of allowing visitors to submit information and apply for an eTA. eTA applications must be completed only through this official website or the “Kenya Travel Authorisation” official mobile application and must be done for each individual who intends to travel to Kenya.
Steps:
- Visit www.etakenya.go.ke
- Click “Apply Now” and follow the instructions
- Make sure that all the data has been entered correctly
- Submit the application
- An email confirming receipt of your application will be sent to you
- An email confirming receipt of payment, if applicable, will be sent to you
- Upon decision by Immigration officer, an email confirming Approval / Refusal will be sent to you
- If your application has been approved, please either print the PDF document that has been attached to the email, OR download the document to your mobile device OR save it in the “Kenya Travel Authorisation” mobile app. This is your electronic travel authorisation that needs to be shown at all departure and arrival points.
- If your application has been denied, you will not be able to travel to Kenya for the moment.
- Please contact support@etakenya.go.ke to report your situation and obtain further details.
- You can check the status of your application at any time by visiting the following URL: https://www.etakenya.go.ke
You are only allowed to travel after your application has been approved by the Government of Kenya.
I have a valid eTA but I need to change the dates of my trip, how can I do that?
If you have a valid eTA, but the details of your trip have changed, such as your arrival or departure dates, you can contact us via live chat to update your application.
Can I travel to other countries with my Kenyan eTA?
Currently, your Kenyan eTA is only valid for travel to Kenya. Is it not valid for travel to any other country.
I am unemployed, retired or a pensioner, what do I select as my occupation?
If you are unemployed or retired, you can select “Not Working by Choice” or “Retired” as your occupation.
Can I travel to Kenya with a valid East Africa Tourist Visa?
Yes, you can travel to Kenya with a valid East Africa Tourist Visa and there is no requirement to complete an eTA.
How do I check the status of my eTA application?
You can check the status of your application at any time by visiting the following URL: https://www.etakenya.go.ke
Within minutes after submitting your application, the system will send you an email confirming receipt of your application. This email will contain the reference number assigned to your application. Use this number to check your application status. Do not immediately re-apply for a travel authorisation.
I've made a mistake on my application, how can I change it?
If you have made a mistake or you need to change some details on your application, you can do so by following these steps:
- Find the acknowledgement email (subject is Application Received). This email contains a link to update your submission
- Upon clicking this link, you are presented with options to update your application.
- Select the correct section and change the details accordingly.
If you still require assistance, please contact us via live chat.
What do I do if my means of payment has been refused or declined
For visitors, the system will require a valid credit or debit card to pay and complete the transaction. Cheques and cash are not accepted by the system. If your payment is refused or declined, please wait a few minutes and try again, or check with your bank to ensure the transaction is not blocked.
I have applied for an eTA. How much time will it take to be processed?
Standard eTA applications are usually processed within 3 days, but in some cases it may take longer. If you need your application processed faster, you can choose expedited processing to receive priority service.
Do citizens of Rwanda, Uganda or other East African Community countries have to apply for an eTA?
Passport holders from the following EAC countries are exempted from applying to an eTA: Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda.
I am a Kenyan citizen travelling with my child who has a different citizenship, do I need an eTA?
If you are a Kenyan citizen and are travelling with your child or minor who is does not have a Kenyan citizenship, an eTA is required for the child. When completing your application, please provide a copy of your Kenyan passport along with a letter indicating your relationship and details of where you will be staying during your trip.
How far ahead of my travel should I apply for an eTA?
Submissions for the eTA can be made up to 90 days prior to travel. Applications are usually processed within 3 days, but in some cases it may take longer. If you need your application processed faster, you can choose expedited processing to receive priority service. We recommend applying for your eTA 2 weeks prior to travel.
What nationalities are exempt from payment?
Citizens of certain nationalities are required to complete their eTA, however they are exempt from payment. These nationalities are:
- Botswana
- Eswatini
- Gambia
- Ghana
- Lesotho
- Malawi
- Mauritius
- Sierra Leone
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
- Namibia
- Union of Comoros
- The Republic of Congo (Brazzaville)
- Eritrea
- Ethiopia
- Mozambique
- San Marino
- South Africa
I have a valid eVisa, do I need to apply for an eTA?
If you have a valid eVISA issued by the Republic of Kenya or a valid East African Tourist Visa, you will not be required to complete an eTA.
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