ETA Kenya
ETA Kenya ; How to APPLY, Costs, Requirements, and the government official link to the Website
ETA Kenya, or the Electronic Travel Authorization for Kenya, is an essential requirement for travelers planning to visit this vibrant East African country. In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about ETA Kenya, from the application process to the cost and to the benefits it offers. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, understanding ETA Kenya will ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey to this stunning destination. So, let’s dive in and discover all the necessary information about ETA Kenya and how it can enhance your travel experience.
In Dec 2023, the government of Kenya announced that all travelers visiting Kenya will not require Evisa but instead will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) with effect from 1st Jan 2024. The ETA has completely replaced the Evisa and is currently in effect.
What is an ETA?
ETA is a semi-automated online system that determines the eligibility of travelers visiting Kenya. ETA permits travel and is authorized by the government of Kenya. Thou an Eta does not determine whether a visitor is admissible to enter Kenya the admissibility is determined by the Kenyan Immigration officers upon arrival.
Kenyan citizens and citizens of EAC are exempted from the ETA
ETA application collects biographic data to determine the eligibility of travelers. If you expect to travel to Kenya regularly we highly encourage you to download the Kenya Travel Authorization mobile app where you’ll be able to securely save your travel documents and profile on your phone which can be reused for future travel plans.
The Cost
The processing fee to acquire ETA is 30 USD per traveler payable online at the time of application. All Travelers visiting Kenya including infants are required to have an ETA approval before visiting the country.
Official Government Website to Apply ETA
To implement this new policy the Kenyan government has launched a digital platform where travelers are required to fill in their details and undergo security clearance before their travel. ETA ensures that the country will maintain basic security when allowing visitors into the country.Â
To apply for ETA visitors are required to apply via the official website www.etakenya.go.ke.Â
Unlike the EVISA ETA is faster and is issued within 3 working business days. It is therefore recommended for travelers intending to visit Kenya to apply for the ETA at least 3 Days before their travel to Kenya thou travelers may still submit their application as early as 3 months before their date of travel.
Do Children or Infants Require ETA?
Yes, unlike before with Evisa where children did not need to apply for Evisa,Â
With ETA is a must for children under the age of 18 years to apply for ETA. The Parents or guardians are responsible for filling out the application on their behalf. We highly recommend that Families apply as a group.
Requirements to apply for ETA
- A passport with at least 6 months of validity
- A recent passport photo or a selfie taken at the time of the application process
- Confirmed flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation it could be a hotel or if you’ll be hosted by a Kenyan you’ll need a letter of invitation.
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate if coming from endemic countries (please ensure you check the WHO Website for the updated list of countries)
- Credit/Debit Card for Payment processing.
Does an ETA Guarantee permission to travel?
No, ETA approval means the Kenyan government has permitted you to travel to Kenya however travelers may still be denied boarding by the carrier if other documents such as a passport or yellow fever( Where applicable) are not presented. Additionally, travelers may be subjected to questioning at the point of departure or arrival.
The Good news is that Kenya is a very friendly country if you have all the required documents you cannot be denied entry or exist.
Mode of payment
Please note the ETA system will require a valid credit /debit card to process payments and complete transactions. Cheques or cash are not accepted by the system. If the payment does not work immediately please wait for a few minutes and try again.
Benefits of an ETA
- Convenient; ETA enables travelers to submit their documentation from the comfort of their homes prior to the trip to Kenya.
- Fast Processing Time:Â It only takes 72hrs to get an ETA approval.
- Minimal chances of denial:Â Travelers can enjoy peace of mind knowing once they submit the required documents.
- Simplified check-in Process. The transport carriers can easily verify that travelers have an approved ETA and that is it.Â
- Reduce queues upon arrival – The arrival queues are reduced since there is reduced verification checking.Â