Kenya, renowned for its diverse landscapes and vibrant culture, is making strides in modernising its immigration system. The transition from a traditional visa system to an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) promises a more streamlined and efficient process for visitors.
There are several issues around the new eTA system that are not yet clear or confirmed. We noticed that there is a lot of misinformation found on the internet and social media platforms. Therefore, we urge everyone to be careful and check the source of information.
What we know so far
All applications are done via the ETA (Travel Authorisation) online platform. After initial technical issues the platform has been stable, and applications have been responded to within less than 72 hours.
The applications can be submitted up to 90 days before travel and it is never wrong the start the process as early as possible. The fee for the eTA is USD 34.09 per traveller, which includes the cost of the eTA and bank and processing fees.
The platform itself offers a lot of valid information around the new system. Take a few minutes to have a look at it, it might already answer the questions you have.
Applying for an eTA does not mean one automatically gets an approval. There is provision that applications can be denied.
All visitors including infants and children who intend to travel to the Republic of Kenya must have an approved Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before the start of their journey. There are exemptions to that, which you can find at https://www.etakenya.go.ke/.
Requirements
Requirements for all travellers
- Valid passport for at least six (6) months after your planned date of arrival into Kenya, with at least one blank page
- Selfie or passport-type photo
- Contact information, email address and phone number
- Details of your arrival and departure itinerary
- Accommodation booking confirmation(s)
- Credit card, debit card or other means of payment
Based on your country of residence and citizenships the following may also be required
- Financial assets/banks letter(s)
Based on your purpose of visit the following may also be required
- Letter and/or appointment letter from the referring doctor/hospital
- Conference invitation/participation letter
- Employment contract
- Supporting documents for resettlement
- Vaccination(s) or test results certificates
For travellers arriving for business
- Invitation letter from company
- Copy of registration of the company
For travellers visiting family
- Invitation letter from family/host
- Identity card/Passport/Alien card/Entry permit of the family member/host
For Diplomatic travel
- A Diplomatic, Official and Service passport
- An official letter from the Country of Origin/Organisation/Foreign Affairs.
eTA Validity
Your eTA is valid for a single entry into Kenya. However, there are some exceptions to this.
Your eTA remains valid for more than one entry if:
- You visit one of the following EAC Partner States: Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda, AND;
- You don’t visit any other country, AND;
- Your eTA has not expired (90 days from issuance)
What are the uncertainties around the eTA?
Currently the eTA is defined as a ‘single entry 90 days’ authorisation. Extensions can be done via eFNS.
The application is now available, but we do not have any practical experience yet.
We will keep monitoring the above and inform you once we have confirmed information.
Written by Sylvia Waigango, Senior Immigration Consultant, Kenya
Edited by Simon Carletti, PR and Creative Supervisor
