How to Apply for a Visa to Travel to Kenya: Tourist, Business, and Transit Visas

Kenya replaced its traditional visa system with the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) on 1 January 2024, making it easier and faster for travellers from around the world to obtain permission to visit. The eTA system, managed by the Directorate of Immigration Services, is an online platform where all visitors, including infants and children, must obtain authorisation before travelling to Kenya. Whether you are visiting for tourism, business, or transit, this guide explains the application process, fees, required documents, and important rules you need to know.

Understanding the eTA System

The Electronic Travel Authorization replaced the previous eVisa system that had been in operation since 2015. Under the new system, Kenya effectively became visa-free for all nationalities, with the eTA serving as a pre-travel screening and registration process rather than a traditional visa. All travellers to Kenya must submit information prior to departure through the official eTA portal. Applications submitted through third-party websites are automatically denied, so always use the official government website at etakenya.go.ke.

Who Needs an eTA?

Almost all foreign nationals travelling to Kenya require an approved eTA before their journey. However, several categories of travellers are exempt. Kenyan citizens do not need an eTA. Citizens of East African Community (EAC) partner states including Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo are exempt. Citizens of countries with fee waivers, including Comoros, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Mozambique, Republic of Congo, San Marino, and South Africa, still need to apply for the eTA but the fee is waived. Holders of valid Kenyan work permits, student permits, or residence permits with valid re-entry passes do not need a separate eTA.

Types of eTA Available

Single Entry eTA

The single entry eTA is the standard authorisation for most visitors. It permits one entry into Kenya and is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance. You must enter Kenya within this 90-day window, or the eTA expires and you would need to apply again. Once in Kenya, you are permitted to stay for up to 90 days per visit. This eTA is suitable for tourists on holiday, short-term business visitors attending meetings or conferences, medical tourists seeking treatment in Kenyan hospitals, and visitors attending family events or social occasions.

Multiple Entry eTA

The multiple entry eTA allows you to enter and exit Kenya multiple times within the validity period. This is ideal for frequent business travellers, investors with ongoing projects in Kenya, family members of Kenyan residents who visit regularly, and professionals providing recurring services. The multiple entry eTA is valid for a longer period, allowing flexibility for travellers who need to make several trips to Kenya within a year.

East African Tourist eTA

The East African Tourist eTA permits travel across Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda on a single authorisation. This is perfect for tourists planning a multi-country safari or tour across East Africa. It allows multiple entries between the three participating countries during the validity period, eliminating the need to obtain separate travel authorisations for each country.

Transit eTA

If you are transiting through Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi or Moi International Airport in Mombasa en route to another country, you may need a transit eTA. Travellers who remain in the airport transit area for a short layover may be exempt, but those with longer layovers or who wish to leave the airport during transit must obtain appropriate authorisation.

eTA Fees

eTA fees are payable online during the application process using a credit card, debit card, or other accepted online payment methods. The single entry eTA costs approximately USD 34.09. The multiple entry eTA costs between USD 101.59 and USD 151.59 depending on the specific type and duration. The East African Tourist eTA costs approximately USD 101.59. Fees are non-refundable regardless of the application outcome, as they cover the processing of your application rather than guaranteeing approval. Always verify current fees on the official eTA website before applying, as rates may be updated periodically.

How to Apply for a Kenya eTA

The application process is completed entirely online through the official portal.

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

Navigate to etakenya.go.ke and create an account using your email address. Verify your email and log into the system.

Step 2: Complete the Application Form

Fill in your personal biographic information including full name as it appears in your passport, date of birth, nationality, and passport details. Provide your travel information including intended dates of travel, accommodation details in Kenya, and purpose of visit. Answer the eligibility screening questions honestly, as false information leads to automatic denial.

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

Upload a clear scan or photograph of your passport biodata page showing your photo, personal details, and passport expiry date. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of entry into Kenya. Upload a recent passport-sized photograph meeting the specified dimensions and background requirements. Depending on your purpose of visit, additional documents may include a letter of invitation from a Kenyan host for business visitors, hotel booking confirmations for tourists, a return or onward flight ticket, and proof of sufficient funds for your stay.

Step 4: Pay the Fee and Submit

Complete the online payment using an accepted payment method. Review all information carefully before final submission, as corrections after submission may require a new application. Upon successful submission, you receive a confirmation email with your application reference number.

Step 5: Receive Your eTA

The standard processing time is three working days, though this may vary depending on your nationality and eTA type. You receive the approved eTA via email. Print a copy or save it on your phone to present at the port of entry. It is recommended to apply at least three days before travel, and applications can be submitted up to three months in advance.

At the Port of Entry

Upon arrival in Kenya, present your approved eTA (printed or digital), valid passport, return or onward ticket, and proof of accommodation to immigration officers. Officers may also ask about the purpose of your visit and your intended length of stay. Immigration retains the right to deny entry even with an approved eTA if circumstances warrant, so ensure all your travel documents are in order and consistent with your eTA application.

Extending Your Stay in Kenya

If you wish to stay beyond the initial 90-day period, you can apply for an extension at the Directorate of Immigration Services offices in Nairobi or Mombasa before your current authorisation expires. Extensions are granted at the discretion of the immigration authorities and typically require proof of sufficient funds, valid accommodation arrangements, and a compelling reason for the extended stay. Overstaying your authorised period without extension is an immigration offence that can result in fines, detention, and deportation with a ban on future entry.

Special Categories: Work Permits and Long-Term Stays

The eTA is not suitable for those intending to work, study, or reside in Kenya long-term. Foreign nationals seeking employment must obtain a work permit through their employer before travelling. Students require a student permit obtained through their educational institution. Investors and business owners need appropriate permits under the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act. These applications are separate from the eTA and are processed through the immigration department's dedicated permit application system.