Planning a trip to Kenya? Before you pack your bags, you need to understand the Kenya eTA requirements – the documents, eligibility rules, and conditions every traveler must meet.
Since January 1, 2024, Kenya replaced its traditional visa system with the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). This guide walks you through everything you need to know so your application gets approved without delays.
What Is the Kenya eTA?
The Kenya eTA is a mandatory electronic travel permit that replaced the previous visa system. Every traveler – regardless of nationality, age, or purpose of visit – must obtain an eTA before arriving in Kenya.
You apply entirely online through the official portal at etakenya.go.ke. There is no visa on arrival option. If you show up at the airport without an approved eTA, you will be denied entry.
Key facts:
- Fee: $30 USD for standard single-entry
- Processing time: Up to 72 hours (standard)
- Validity: 90 days from the date of approval
- Entry type: Single entry (multiple-entry options available separately)
Kenya eTA Requirements: Complete Document Checklist
Here is every document and requirement you need to submit a successful Kenya eTA application.
Valid Passport
Your passport is the most critical requirement. It must meet these conditions:
- Validity: At least 6 months from your intended date of entry into Kenya
- Blank pages: At least one blank page for entry stamps
- Condition: Must not be damaged, torn, or faded
- Format: You will upload a scanned color copy of your passport bio page during the application
If your passport expires within 6 months of your travel date, renew it before applying. Applications with insufficient passport validity are automatically rejected.
Digital Passport Photo
You need a recent digital passport photo that meets specific requirements:
- Size: 5.5cm x 5.5cm (2 inches x 2 inches)
- Format: JPEG or PNG
- File size: Between 10KB and 300KB
- Background: Plain white or light-colored
- Recency: Taken within the last 6 months
- Expression: Neutral expression, eyes open, looking directly at the camera
- Accessories: No hats, headbands, or sunglasses (religious head coverings are allowed if they do not obscure the face)
For a detailed guide on photo specifications, see our Kenya eTA Photo Requirements page.
Return or Onward Ticket
Kenya requires proof that you intend to leave the country. You must provide:
- A confirmed return flight booking or
- An onward ticket to your next destination
The ticket must show your name matching your passport, travel dates, and flight details. A one-way ticket without proof of onward travel is a common reason for eTA rejection.
Proof of Accommodation
You need to show where you will be staying in Kenya. Acceptable documents include:
- Hotel booking confirmation with your name and dates
- Invitation letter from a host in Kenya (if staying with friends or family)
- Tour itinerary if booked through a travel agency
- Airbnb or vacation rental confirmation
The booking should cover at least your first few nights in Kenya.
Travel Insurance
While not always enforced at the application stage, travel insurance is strongly recommended and may be checked at the port of entry. Your policy should cover:
- Medical emergencies and hospitalization
- Emergency evacuation
- Trip cancellation
- Minimum coverage of $50,000 USD is generally advised
Financial Proof
You may be asked to demonstrate that you can support yourself during your stay:
- Bank statements from the last 3 months showing sufficient funds
- Credit card with available balance
- Employer letter confirming salary (for business travelers)
There is no officially published minimum bank balance, but having access to at least $50-100 USD per day of your planned stay is a reasonable benchmark.
Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate
This is a critical requirement that catches many travelers off guard. Kenya requires a valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate (also called the “yellow card”) if:
- You are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission
- You have transited through such a country for more than 12 hours
The vaccination must be administered at least 10 days before arrival. Even if you are not coming from a yellow fever endemic area, getting vaccinated is recommended as parts of Kenya are within the yellow fever zone.
Countries requiring the certificate include most of sub-Saharan Africa, parts of South America, and several Southeast Asian nations. Check the full list on our Kenya Yellow Fever Requirements page.
Kenya eTA Eligibility: Who Needs One?
Since January 2024, almost everyone needs an eTA to enter Kenya. This includes:
- Citizens of all countries (including those that previously had visa-free access)
- Infants and children (each child needs a separate eTA application)
- Dual nationals (use the passport you will travel with)
- Diplomatic and official passport holders (some exceptions apply through government channels)
Countries That Need an eTA
All nationalities must apply for an eTA before travel. This includes citizens of:
| Region | Countries |
|---|---|
| **North America** | United States, Canada, Mexico |
| **Europe** | United Kingdom, Germany, France, all EU/EEA nations |
| **Asia** | India, China, Japan, South Korea, all Asian nations |
| **Africa** | Nigeria, South Africa, Ethiopia, all African nations |
| **Oceania** | Australia, New Zealand |
| **South America** | Brazil, Argentina, all South American nations |
Exempt Nationals
A small number of exemptions exist:
- Kenyan citizens and East African Community (EAC) member state citizens
- Diplomatic passport holders from select countries (arranged through official channels)
- Transit passengers who remain in the international transit area and do not pass through immigration
If you hold a passport from Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, or South Sudan, you can enter Kenya without an eTA as an EAC member state citizen.
Special Requirements by Traveler Type
Business Travelers
If you are traveling to Kenya for business purposes, the standard eTA requirements apply, plus:
- An invitation letter from the Kenyan company you are visiting
- Details of your business activities and duration of stay
- For extended business stays, consider the Kenya Business eTA options
Children and Infants
Every child, regardless of age, needs their own eTA application. Additional requirements include:
- Birth certificate (scanned copy)
- Consent letter from both parents or legal guardians (if traveling with one parent or a third party)
- Parent passports and eTA copies if traveling together
- The child’s own passport with at least 6 months validity
Applications for minors are processed the same way as adult applications, and the fee is the same ($30 USD).
Transit Passengers
If Kenya is a layover destination and you will not pass through immigration:
- You may be exempt from the eTA requirement if staying in the international transit area
- If you need to clear immigration (to change terminals, collect luggage, or leave the airport), you need a Kenya Transit eTA
- The transit eTA costs $20 USD and allows a stay of up to 72 hours
Photo Requirements for Kenya eTA
Photo errors are one of the top reasons for eTA application delays. Make sure your photo meets these specifications:
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 5.5cm x 5.5cm (2in x 2in) |
| Format | JPEG or PNG |
| File size | 10KB – 300KB |
| Background | White or light plain color |
| Head position | Centered, facing forward |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed |
| Eyes | Open and visible |
| Glasses | Allowed if no glare; avoid heavy frames |
| Head coverings | Religious only, face must be visible |
| Recency | Taken within last 6 months |
Kenya eTA vs Old Visa Requirements: What Changed in 2024
The switch from traditional visas to the eTA system brought several changes:
| Aspect | Old Visa System | New eTA System |
|---|---|---|
| Application | Embassy or online | Online only |
| Visa on arrival | Available | No longer available |
| Processing | 5-10 business days | Up to 72 hours |
| Fee (single entry) | $50 USD | $30 USD |
| Format | Physical sticker/stamp | Digital (linked to passport) |
| All nationalities | Different rules by country | Same process for everyone |
The key takeaway: you cannot get a visa on arrival anymore. The eTA must be approved before you board your flight.
Common Reasons for eTA Rejection
Understanding why applications get rejected helps you avoid mistakes:
- Passport validity less than 6 months from entry date
- Poor quality passport scan – blurry, cut off, or low resolution
- Photo does not meet specifications – wrong size, background, or wearing accessories
- Name mismatch between passport and application form
- Missing return/onward ticket
- Incomplete application – fields left blank or incorrect information
- Previous immigration violations in Kenya or other East African countries
- Yellow fever certificate missing when required
If your application is rejected, you can reapply after correcting the issues. The fee is non-refundable, so double-check everything before submitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents do I need for a Kenya eTA?
You need a valid passport (6+ months validity), a digital passport photo (5.5×5.5cm), a return or onward flight ticket, proof of accommodation, and a yellow fever certificate if arriving from an endemic country.
How long does my passport need to be valid for Kenya?
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your intended date of entry into Kenya. It must also have at least one blank page for entry stamps.
Do I need a return ticket for Kenya eTA?
Yes. You must show proof of a return or onward flight booking. A one-way ticket without confirmed onward travel is grounds for eTA rejection.
Do infants need a Kenya eTA?
Yes. Every traveler, including newborns and infants, must have their own individual eTA. A separate application must be submitted for each child using their own passport.
Which countries are exempt from the Kenya eTA?
Kenyan citizens and East African Community (EAC) member state citizens (Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan) are exempt. Transit passengers remaining in the international transit area may also be exempt.
Do I need travel insurance for Kenya?
While not a mandatory eTA requirement, travel insurance is strongly recommended and may be checked at immigration. Aim for a policy with at least $50,000 USD medical coverage.
How much bank balance is required for Kenya eTA?
There is no officially stated minimum, but having access to approximately $50-100 USD per day of your stay is recommended. Bank statements from the last 3 months may be requested.
Can I get a Kenya visa on arrival?
No. Kenya eliminated the visa on arrival option on January 1, 2024. You must have an approved eTA before boarding your flight to Kenya.
How long does the Kenya eTA take to process?
Standard processing takes up to 72 hours. Expedited processing options are available for faster turnaround. Apply at least one week before your travel date to be safe.
What happens if my Kenya eTA application is rejected?
You can reapply after correcting the issues that caused the rejection. The application fee is non-refundable, so review all requirements carefully before submitting.
