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Kenya Visa: Requirements, Application Process, Costs—Top Guide 2025

Do I need a visa to enter Kenya, and how do I apply?

Kenya Visa: Planning a Kenya safari or a memorable adventure through iconic destinations like the Masai Mara National Reserve and Nairobi National Park begins with understanding the updated Kenya visa requirements.

Whether you’re dreaming of a classic Kenya wildlife safari, witnessing the Great Migration, or exploring Kenya’s vibrant cities and coastal regions, obtaining the right travel authorization is the first step.

As of September 8, 2025, Kenya has replaced its traditional visa system with a streamlined Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for most international travelers.

This system, introduced on January 1, 2024, simplifies entry into Kenya while enhancing border security and improving the visitor experience.

This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about traveling to Kenya—from visa requirements and application procedures to costs, processing times, and essential travel documents.

It also includes insider tips for travelers planning a Kenya safari, including when to visit the Masai Mara National Reserve, how to combine a Nairobi city tour with a game drive in Nairobi National Park, and the best times to witness wildlife spectacles.

Overview of Kenya’s Entry Requirements

Kenya’s immigration policies have evolved to streamline entry for international visitors while maintaining security and efficiency. Since January 1, 2024, Kenya has abolished visa requirements for all foreign nationals and implemented the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system.

This applies to citizens of all countries except those explicitly exempted from the eTA requirement. The eTA is a digital entry permit that must be obtained before travel, replacing the previous visa-on-arrival and eVisa systems for most travelers. It simplifies the process by allowing online applications, reducing the need for physical paperwork or embassy visits.

The eTA is mandatory for most foreign visitors, including those who were previously visa-exempt, except for citizens of specific East African Community (EAC) countries and a few other exempted groups.

The eTA is designed to pre-screen travelers, ensuring eligibility for entry, and is valid for a single entry (with provisions for re-entry from certain EAC countries within its validity period). Below, I’ll detail who needs an eTA, exemptions, the application process, costs, and other requirements.

Do You Need an eTA to Enter Kenya?

Who Needs an eTA?

As of January 1, 2024, citizens of all countries, except those listed as eTA-exempt, must apply for an eTA before traveling to Kenya.

This includes nationals from countries that previously required a visa (e.g., the United States, United Kingdom, India, Canada, Australia, and most European, Asian, and African nations) and those that were previously visa-exempt (e.g., South Africa, Jamaica, and Singapore). The eTA applies to all travelers, including children under 18, unless they fall under specific exemptions.

Who is Exempt from the eTA Requirement?

The following groups are exempt from obtaining an eTA:

• Citizens of EAC Partner States: Nationals of Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda can enter Kenya without an eTA or visa.
• Holders of Kenyan Permanent Residence, Work Permits, or Passes: Individuals with valid Kenyan residency or work authorization.
• Holders of Valid Kenyan Re-entry Passes: Those with specific re-entry permissions.
• Transit Passengers: Passengers transiting through Kenya without leaving the airport precincts, arriving and departing on the same aircraft or transferring to another without exiting the airport.
• Crew Members: Members of ship, aircraft, or train crews listed on the crew manifest, continuing to a destination outside Kenya.
• Private Aircraft Owners: Those stopping for refueling in Kenya without leaving the airport precincts.
• Holders of Specific International Organization Documents:
  • United Nations Laissez-Passers (for official UN business).
  • African Union Laissez-Passers (for official AU business).
  • African Development Bank Laissez-Passers (for official ADB business).

If you are not in one of these exempt categories, you must apply for an eTA before boarding your flight to Kenya. Failure to obtain an eTA may result in being denied boarding or entry.

 Types of eTAs and Their Validity

The Kenyan eTA is primarily issued as a single-entry permit, allowing one entry into Kenya. However, there is also a multiple-entry eTA valid for one year for frequent travelers, such as business professionals. Key details include:

1. Single-Entry eTA:
   • Valid for 90 days from issuance.
   • Allows a stay of up to 90 days in Kenya.
   • Permits re-entry to Kenya if the traveler visits other EAC countries (Burundi, DRC, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, or Uganda) within the 90-day validity period, provided the eTA remains valid.
2. Multiple-Entry eTA:
   • Valid for one year from issuance.
   • Allows multiple entries into Kenya for purposes such as business or tourism, with each stay not exceeding 90 days.
   • Requires additional documentation, such as a letter explaining the need for multiple entries, and approval from the Director of Immigration Services in Nairobi.
3. East African Tourist eTA:
   • A special multiple-entry permit for tourism, allowing travel between Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda without additional visas.
   • Valid for 90 days, non-extendable.
   • Must be used to enter the issuing country first (e.g., Kenya, if issued by Kenya).
   • Costs approximately $100 USD.

If you hold a valid eVisa issued before January 1, 2024, or an East African Tourist Visa, you can use it until it expires without needing an eTA.

Application Process for the Kenya Visa

The eTA application is entirely online, designed to be user-friendly and efficient. Below is a step-by-step guide to applying for a Kenya eTA, based on the official government portal (www.etakenya.go.ke) (www.etakenya.go.ke) and other reliable sources.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Visit the Official eTA Portal:
   • Access the official Kenyan eTA website at www.etakenya.go.ke. Avoid third-party websites, as applications submitted through them may be automatically denied.
   • Create an account or log in if you already have one on the eCitizen platform (immigration.ecitizen.go.ke), which serves as the gateway for government services.
2. Register as a Visitor:
   • Select “Visitor” registration and provide your personal details, such as name, email, and phone number.
   • Verify your account via email or SMS.
3. Select the eTA Option:
   • Navigate to the Directorate of Immigration Services section.
   • Choose “Submit Application” and select “Kenyan eTA.”
   • Specify the type of eTA (single-entry, multiple-entry, or East African Tourist eTA).
4. Complete the Application Form:
   • Fill in your personal details, including:
     • Full name (as it appears in your passport).
     • Nationality and country of residence.
     • Passport number, issue date, and expiry date.
     • Contact information (email, phone).
     • Travel details (arrival date, flight number, purpose of visit).
     • Accommodation details (hotel booking confirmation or invitation letter if staying with friends).
   • Upload required documents (see below for details).
   • Complete health and customs declarations.
5. Upload Required Documents:
   • Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from your planned arrival date in Kenya, with at least one blank page. Upload the bio-data page.
   • Passport-Size Photo or Selfie: A recent photo or a selfie taken during the application process.
   • Travel Itinerary: Proof of flight details, including arrival and departure dates and flight numbers.
   • Accommodation Proof: Hotel booking confirmation or an invitation letter from a host in Kenya.
   • Additional Documents (if applicable):
     • For multiple-entry eTA: A letter explaining the need for multiple entries or a recommendation from an employer/organization.
     • For business purposes: A cover letter or invitation letter from a Kenyan host or organization.
     • For minors: A copy of the parent’s passport bio-data page and consent letter.
     • Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if arriving from a country listed as a transmission risk by the WHO).
6. Pay the eTA Fee:
   • Use a credit/debit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, etc.) or PayPal for payment.
   • The standard processing fee is approximately $30 USD (government fee) plus a bank processing fee of about $1.59 USD, totaling $34.09 USD for a single-entry eTA.
   • Multiple-entry eTAs or expedited processing may incur additional fees (see cost section below).
   • Payment must be made online; cash payments at the airport or embassy are not accepted.
7. Submit the Application:
   • Review all information for accuracy before submission, as errors may require a new application and additional fees.
   • Submit the application and note the application ID for tracking.
8. Track Application Status:
   • Check the status of your application at www.etakenya.go.ke using your application ID.
   • You may also receive email updates on the progress.
9. Receive and Print the eTA:
   • Once approved (typically within 3 days, but up to 10 days for some cases), download the eTA from your eCitizen account or email.
   • Print the eTA or save it on a mobile device (or in the Kenya Travel Authorization app) to present at the port of entry.

Important Notes on the Application Process

• Apply Early: Submit your application at least 3 days before travel, though 2 weeks is recommended to account for processing delays. Applications can be submitted up to 90 days in advance.
• Urgent Processing: If you need faster processing (e.g., at the airport due to an emergency), select the urgent processing option for an additional fee (exact cost varies but typically $50–$100 USD).
• Accuracy is Critical: Incomplete or incorrect applications will be rejected, requiring a new submission and fee.
• Present at Entry: You must present the printed or digital eTA to immigration officers at Kenyan ports of entry, such as Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Moi International Airport, or land border crossings.

Costs of the Kenya eTA

The cost of the Kenya eTA varies depending on the type of eTA and processing speed. Below are the details:

• Single-Entry eTA:
  • Government fee: $30 USD.
  • Bank processing fee: $1.59 USD.
  • Total: $34.09 USD.
  • Applies to most travelers for tourism, business, or short-term visits.
• Multiple-Entry eTA (1-Year Validity):
  • Government fee: Approximately $100–$150 USD (exact cost depends on approval from the Director of Immigration Services).
  • Bank processing fee: $1.59 USD.
  • Total: $101.59–$151.59 USD.
  • Requires additional documentation and approval, which may increase processing time.
• East African Tourist eTA:
  • Fee: $100 USD (plus bank fee of $1.59 USD, totaling $101.59 USD).
  • Covers multiple entries to Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda for tourism purposes.
• Urgent Processing:
  • Additional fee: $50–$100 USD (varies by urgency and service provider).
  • Ensures priority processing, often within 24–48 hours.
• Children Under 16:
  • Exempt from eTA fees if traveling with parents, but they still require an eTA application (only valid travel documents needed at entry).
• Exemptions from Fees:
  • Citizens of certain countries (e.g., EAC Partner States) are exempt from fees.
  • Holders of specific international organization laissez-passers (UN, AU, ADB) on official business may be exempt.

Note: Fees are non-refundable, even if the application is rejected. Always verify the total cost on the official eTA portal before payment, as third-party services may charge additional fees (e.g., $35–$420 USD for processing assistance).

 Required Documents

To apply for a Kenya eTA, you need the following documents:

• Passport: Valid for at least six months from the planned arrival date, with at least one blank page.
• Photo: A recent passport-size photo or a selfie taken during the application.
• Travel Itinerary: Flight details, including arrival and departure dates and flight numbers.
• Accommodation Proof: Hotel booking confirmation or an invitation letter from a host in Kenya.
• Yellow Fever Certificate: Required if arriving from a country listed as a transmission risk by the WHO (check the WHO website for the latest list).
• Additional Documents (if applicable):
  • For business travelers: A cover letter or invitation letter from a Kenyan host or organization.
  • For multiple-entry eTA: A letter justifying the need for multiple entries.
  • For minors: Parental consent letter and a copy of the parent’s passport bio-data page.
  • For internships/volunteer work: An application for special authorization from the host organization to the Director of Immigration Services.

Ensure all documents are uploaded in the required format (e.g., PDF or JPEG) and meet the specified criteria to avoid rejection.

Processing Time

• Standard Processing: Typically takes 2–3 business days, but can take up to 10 business days for referred cases (e.g., Category 3 applicants from certain countries like Afghanistan, Iraq, or Somalia).
• Urgent Processing: Can be completed within 24–48 hours for an additional fee.
• Recommendations: Apply at least 2 weeks before travel to account for potential delays, especially for multiple-entry eTAs or applications requiring additional scrutiny.

You can track your application status on www.etakenya.go.ke using your application ID or receive email updates.

Entry Requirements Beyond the eTA

In addition to the eTA, travelers must meet the following requirements at the port of entry:

• Valid Passport: At least six months validity and two blank pages.
• Yellow Fever Vaccination: Mandatory if arriving from a high-risk country.
• Proof of Purpose: Immigration officers may request documentation supporting the purpose of your visit (e.g., hotel bookings, tour itinerary, or invitation letter).
• Health and Customs Declarations: Completed during the eTA application process but may be verified upon arrival.

Be prepared for possible questioning by immigration officers about your travel plans, financial means, or ties to your home country. Providing clear, honest answers is crucial to avoid entry issues.

Extending Your Stay

The single-entry eTA allows a stay of up to 90 days. If you wish to extend your stay:

• Apply through the Department of Immigration Services Foreign Nationals (eFNS) portal.
• Submit a completed application form, a copy of your eTA, a valid passport, and a passport copy.
• The extension process can grant an additional 90 days but must be initiated before the eTA expires.
• Note: The East African Tourist eTA is non-extendable.

Common Reasons for eTA Rejection

Applications may be rejected for:

• Incomplete or incorrect documentation.
• Inconsistent information in the application.
• Failure to meet financial or eligibility requirements.
• Criminal history or prior visa violations.
• Expired or near-expiry passport.

If rejected, review the rejection letter, correct the issues, and submit a new application with the associated fee.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Process

• Use the Official Portal: Only apply through www.etakenya.go.ke to avoid scams or denials from third-party sites.
• Check Passport Validity: Ensure your passport meets the six-month validity and blank-page requirements.
• Plan for Yellow Fever Vaccination: If required, obtain the certificate well in advance.
• Keep Copies: Carry printed or digital copies of your eTA, passport, and supporting documents.
• Contact Support: For assistance, email etakenya@immigration.go.ke, call +254 717 436 070, or WhatsApp +254 110 922 064.

 Special Considerations

• Travelers from High-Risk Countries: Nationals of countries like Afghanistan, Cameroon, Eritrea, Iraq, North Korea, Libya, Mali, Senegal, Somalia, Syria, and Yemen may face additional scrutiny or require embassy-based applications instead of eTAs.
• Work or Volunteering: Engaging in work, internships, or volunteer activities requires special permits applied through the Director of Immigration Services in Nairobi, not covered by the eTA.
• Health and Safety: Medical facilities in Kenya may be limited outside major cities, and medical evacuation insurance is recommended. Be aware of local scams, especially online romance or financial frauds.

 Conclusion

To enter Kenya in 2025, most travelers need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), which costs approximately $34.09 USD for a single-entry permit, $101.59–$151.59 USD for a multiple-entry eTA, or $101.59 USD for the East African Tourist eTA.

The application is straightforward, conducted online via www.etakenya.go.ke, requiring a valid passport, photo, travel itinerary, and accommodation proof. Processing typically takes 2–3 days, but applying 2 weeks in advance is advisable.

Exemptions apply to EAC citizens and specific groups, and additional requirements like yellow fever vaccination may apply based on your origin.

By preparing thoroughly and using the official portal, you can ensure a smooth entry into Kenya to enjoy its stunning landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage.