Overview

The Kenya eTA is an official electronic travel authorization for foreign nationals wishing to visit Kenya for tourism, business, transit, or family visits. The process is fully online and designed to be accessible for travelers worldwide. This guide covers every aspect of the application, from eligibility to troubleshooting.

Who Needs a Kenya eTA?

Most foreign nationals require an eTA to enter Kenya. The eTA is available for tourism, business, transit, and family visits. Some nationalities are eTA-exempt or must apply at a Kenyan embassy—check the official requirements page for your country.

eTA-Exempt Countries:

• East African Community (EAC) member states (e.g., Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Burundi, South Sudan)
• Citizens of select Caribbean and Pacific countries
• Diplomatic and official passport holders (see official list)

Embassy-Only Countries:

• Afghanistan
• Iraq
• North Korea
• Somalia
• Syria
• Yemen
• Stateless persons

Eligibility by Nationality

• eTA Eligible: Most countries in Europe, Asia, the Americas, Africa, and Oceania
• eTA-Exempt: See above
• Embassy-Only: See above

Types of Kenya eTAs

• Tourist eTA (Single entry, 90 days)
• Business eTA (Single entry, 90 days)
• Transit eTA (Single entry, 7 days)
• East Africa Tourist eTA (for travel to Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda)

Required Documents for All Applicants

1. Valid Passport: At least 6 months validity from arrival date
2. Recent Passport Photo: Color, clear background
3. Travel Itinerary: Flight details, accommodation booking
4. Email Address: For eTA approval and updates
5. Payment Method: Credit/debit card
6. Supporting Documents: Depending on eTA type (see below)

Special Requirements by eTA Type

• Business eTA: Invitation letter from Kenyan company, business registration, and supporting documents
• Transit eTA: Proof of onward travel (ticket to third country)
• East Africa Tourist eTA: Proof of travel to Rwanda/Uganda, multi-country itinerary
• Minors: Birth certificate, parental consent letter if traveling with one parent/guardian
• Family Visit: Invitation letter from host in Kenya, copy of host's ID
• Medical Treatment: Medical certificate, hospital invitation

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Check Eligibility: Use the requirements tool
2. Prepare Documents: Passport, photo, itinerary, and any special documents
3. Apply Online: Complete the application at Kenya eTA portal
4. Upload Documents: Attach all required files
5. Pay Fees: Pay government and service fees
6. Track Status: Use your reference number to check progress
7. Receive eTA: Approval sent by email (usually within 1-7 business days)
8. Print eTA: Bring a printed copy for border control

Photo & Document Guidelines

• Photo: Color, recent, no hats/glasses, white background
• Passport Scan: Clear, full page, no glare
• File Types: JPG, PNG, or PDF
• File Size: Under 2MB per file
• Translations: Non-English documents must be translated

Real-World Scenarios & Edge Cases

Scenario 1: Family of Four (Two Adults, Two Children)

• Each person must apply separately
• Children need birth certificates and parental consent
• All documents must be uploaded for each applicant

Scenario 2: Business Traveler

• Invitation letter from Kenyan company
• Business registration documents

Scenario 3: Transit Traveler

• Proof of onward ticket
• Stay limited to 7 days

Scenario 4: Medical Emergency

• Medical certificate and hospital invitation
• Expedited processing may be possible

Scenario 5: Passport Expiring Soon

• Application denied; must renew passport before applying

Scenario 6: Name Mismatch

• Provide legal documents to explain discrepancies

Troubleshooting & Common Mistakes

• Photo Rejected: Use a recent, clear photo
• Passport Expiring Soon: Renew before applying
• Missing Documents: Double-check all uploads
• Wrong Email: Double-check for typos
• Payment Declined: Try another card or contact your bank
• Slow Processing: Apply at least 2 weeks before travel
• File Size Too Large: Compress files before uploading
• Untranslated Documents: Provide certified translations
• Application Denied: Review reasons, correct, and reapply

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for a Kenya eTA from any country?
Yes, if your nationality is eligible. Check the requirements page.

What if I am from an eTA-exempt country?
You do not need an eTA, but bring your passport and proof of onward travel.

Can I apply for my family/group together?
Yes, up to 15 travelers per group application.

What if my application is denied?
You will be notified by email. You may reapply or contact support for help.

How long does it take to get a Kenya eTA?
Standard processing is 1-7 business days, but apply early.

Can I extend my eTA?
Extensions are not guaranteed; contact immigration in Kenya.

What if I lose my eTA approval?
Contact support to have it resent to your email.

Can I enter Mombasa or Kisumu with a Kenya eTA?
Yes, the eTA is valid for all entry points, including Mombasa and Kisumu.

What if my passport is lost or stolen after approval?
You must reapply with your new passport.

Can I work or study on a tourist eTA?
No, you must apply for the appropriate visa type.

What if my travel dates change?
Contact support to update your application if possible.

Are there special requirements for minors?
Yes, see the children's eTA guide.

Summary & Checklist

• Check your eligibility
• Prepare all required documents
• Apply online at the official portal
• Upload clear, correct files
• Pay fees promptly
• Track your application
• Print your eTA before travel
• Bring all documents to the border
• Apply early to avoid delays

The Kenya eTA process is designed to be accessible and efficient. For the latest updates, always check the official Kenya Immigration website or contact your nearest Kenyan embassy.