How to Apply for Kenya’s eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization):

Planning a trip to Kenya—whether for safari, business, or a beach break on the Indian Ocean—now starts with the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Think of it as a simple online pre-screening you complete before you fly. Below is a plain-English walkthrough so you know exactly what to do, how long it takes, what it costs, and who’s exempt.

Quick note: An approved eTA lets you travel to Kenya. Final entry is decided by Immigration at the border. (etakenya.go.ke)

Who needs a Kenya eTA?

• Most travelers need an approved eTA before departure, including infants and children. (etakenya.go.ke)
• Exemptions exist, for example:
  • Citizens of East African Community partner states (Burundi, DRC, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda) for stays up to 180 days. (etakenya.go.ke)
  • Additional categories (certain nationalities for limited stays, crew, transit passengers who don’t leave the airport, holders of specific Laissez-Passers, etc.). Always verify the current exemption list on the official site. (etakenya.go.ke)

What you’ll need (documents)

Have digital copies ready before you start your application:

• Passport valid for 6+ months (with at least one blank page)
• Selfie or passport-style photo
• Contact details (email & phone)
• Travel itinerary (arrival & departure details)
• Accommodation booking confirmation (hotel/lodge/host info)
• Payment method (credit/debit card, etc.)
• Extra documents if relevant (e.g., business invitation letter, conference invite, medical referral, family-visit host ID, vaccination/test certificates) (etakenya.go.ke)

How much does the eTA cost?

• Standard processing: from USD $30
• Expedited (urgent) processing: add USD $100 for immediate processing
  (Fees vary by travel category; you’ll see the exact amount at checkout on the portal.) (etakenya.go.ke)

How long does it take?

• Typical processing time: up to 3 working days (72 hours)
• Expedited option: immediate processing available for an extra fee
• The government recommends applying ~2 weeks before travel to allow for checks. (etakenya.go.ke)

Where to apply (official only!)

Apply only via the Government of Kenya’s official channels:

• The official eTA website (click Apply Now)
• The “Kenya Travel Authorization” official mobile app (if you prefer mobile) (etakenya.go.ke)

Heads-up: Kenya retired the old eVisa site. Use the new eTA portal. Some embassies also point travelers to the same official link. (kenyaembassydc.org)

Step-by-Step: Kenya eTA Application

1. Check your eligibility
   Confirm you need an eTA and that you’re not in an exempt category. (etakenya.go.ke)
2. Gather your documents
   See the checklist above—make sure images are clear and details match your passport. (etakenya.go.ke)
3. Start your application
   Go to the official eTA site or open the official mobile app and select Apply Now. Choose the purpose of travel (tourism, business, conference, family visit, transit, etc.). (etakenya.go.ke)
4. Enter traveler details
   Fill in passport biodata, trip dates, contact info, and accommodation. Upload your photo and any supporting documents if prompted. (etakenya.go.ke)
5. Pay the fee
   Pay online for standard or expedited service (see fees above). You’ll receive an email confirming your payment. (etakenya.go.ke)
6. Wait for approval
   Standard applications are typically decided within 72 hours. Expedited is immediate. You’ll receive an Approval or Refusal email. (etakenya.go.ke)
7. Carry your eTA
   Print the PDF or save it to your phone / the official app. You must present it at departure and arrival. (etakenya.go.ke)

Families & groups

• Every traveler needs their own eTA, including infants.
• You can apply as a group online to keep applications together. (etakenya.go.ke)

Transit passengers

If you’re transiting and don’t leave the airport precincts, you’re exempt from obtaining an eTA. If you plan to leave the airport, apply for the relevant eTA. (etakenya.go.ke)

After you’re approved: what to bring to the airport

• Passport (same one used for the application)
• Printed or digital eTA approval PDF
• Accommodation and onward/return details (recommended—these were part of your application) (etakenya.go.ke)

Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)

• Mismatched names or passport numbers → Copy exactly from your passport biodata page.
• Blurry or cropped photos → Upload clear, well-lit images per the portal prompts.
• Missing accommodation details → Keep a booked address/host contact ready.
• Applying too late → Aim for two weeks ahead if you can; use expedited only if necessary. (etakenya.go.ke)

FAQs (quick answers)

Is eTA the same as a visa?
Not exactly. It’s a travel authorization, not a visa sticker. It lets you board and travel to Kenya; Immigration makes the final entry decision on arrival. (etakenya.go.ke)

Do children need an eTA?
Yes. All travelers, including infants and children, must have their own approved eTA (unless exempt). (etakenya.go.ke)

How do I track my application?
Use Check Status on the eTA homepage with your reference number. (etakenya.go.ke)

Can someone apply on my behalf?
Yes—just provide accurate traveler details and indicate you’re applying for someone else at the end. (etakenya.go.ke)

What health documents do I need?
Requirements vary. The portal may request vaccination or test certificates depending on your travel purpose or routing; follow the prompts and carry relevant proof. (etakenya.go.ke)

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Final tip

Rules and fees can change. For the latest, always double-check the official eTA portal or your nearest Kenya mission before you book. (etakenya.go.ke, kenyaembassydc.org)