As of January 1, 2024, travelers to Kenya no longer require a traditional visa. Instead, they must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before their journey. This new system replaces the previous eVisa and simplifies the entry process for visitors.
Who Needs an eTA?
With a few exceptions, all foreign travelers, including infants and children, must apply for an eTA before visiting Kenya. This includes:
- Tourists
- Business travelers
- Those visiting friends or family
- Individuals attending conferences or events
Exemptions from the eTA Requirement
Certain individuals are exempt from obtaining an eTA:
- Kenyan citizens and holders of valid Kenyan passports or emergency certificates
- Residents of Kenya with valid permanent residence, work permits or passes
- Holders of United Nations Conventional Travel Documents issued by Kenya
- Members of diplomatic missions and international organizations accredited to Kenya
- Citizens of East African Community (EAC) partner states (Burundi, DR Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda) for stays up to 6 months
- Airline and ship crew members traveling to destinations outside Kenya
- Private aircraft owners refueling in Kenya without leaving the airport
How to Apply for the Kenya eTA
To obtain an eTA, travelers must apply online at the official government website, www.etakenya.go.ke. The application process requires:
- A valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity and 1 blank page
- A passport-style photo or selfie
- Contact information (email, phone number)
- Travel details (arrival date, departure date, accommodation)
- Payment of the $30 application fee
Additional documents may be needed depending on your country of origin and travel purpose, such as a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate or proof of accommodation.
Processing Time and Validity
It typically takes about 3 working days to process an eTA application. Once approved, the eTA is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance and allows for a single entry into Kenya.
Benefits of the eTA
The eTA system offers several advantages over the previous eVisa:
- Faster and more convenient application process online
- No need to fill out forms upon arrival in Kenya
- Reduced queues at immigration due to advance screening
- Simplified check-in process for airlines
By applying for an eTA, travelers can ensure a smooth entry into Kenya and focus on enjoying their safari, beach vacation, or business trip. Remember to apply at least 3 days before your planned arrival, but no earlier than 3 months prior.
Documents Required to Apply for a Kenya eVisa
To apply for a Kenya eVisa, travelers must prepare several essential documents. These include a valid passport with at least six months’ validity beyond the intended arrival date, a recent passport-sized photograph, and proof of accommodation, such as hotel bookings or an invitation letter from a host. Additionally, applicants need to provide a travel itinerary that outlines their planned activities in Kenya. If traveling for business, an invitation letter from the host company and registration documents may also be required. All documents must be submitted in acceptable formats, such as PDF or JPG, and should clearly depict the necessary information to facilitate the application process.
Processing Time for a Kenya eVisa
The processing time for a Kenya eVisa typically takes about two working days after the application is submitted and the fee is paid. However, applicants are advised to apply at least seven days before their intended travel date to allow for any unforeseen delays. Once the application is approved, the eVisa can be downloaded from the eCitizen account created during the application process.
Last-Minute Applications for a Kenya eVisa
While it is technically possible to apply for a Kenya eVisa at the last minute, it is not advisable. The processing time is generally two working days, which may not accommodate urgent travel plans. Therefore, travelers should aim to submit their applications well in advance—ideally at least a week before their departure date—to ensure they receive their eVisa on time and avoid any travel disruptions.
Fees Associated with the Kenya eVisa Application Process
The application fee for a Kenya eVisa varies depending on the type of visa requested. For a single-entry tourist visa, the fee is typically $50, plus a $1 service charge. Additional fees apply for other visa types, such as a multiple-entry visa or a transit visa. It is important to note that all fees are non-refundable, and applicants should ensure they have a valid payment method, such as a credit or debit card, ready for the application process.
Incomplete Kenya eVisa Applications
If a Kenya eVisa application is found to be incomplete, it will be rejected. Incomplete applications may arise from missing documents, incorrect information, or failure to meet the specified requirements. To avoid this, applicants should carefully review their submissions before finalizing them. If an application is rejected due to incompleteness, travelers will need to address the issues and reapply, which may lead to delays in obtaining the necessary travel authorization.
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