Apply for an electronic travel authorization (eTA) for Kenya online. Kenya e-Visa

Convenient electronic travel authorization (eTA) for Kenya

With the eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization), citizens of most countries can apply for a visa for Kenya online without having to visit a consulate. The eTA system introduced by the Kenyan government simplifies the visa application process by allowing applicants to submit their application online and receive approval within a few business days. The eTA allows for a single entry and stay in Kenya for 90 days and is therefore ideal for tourists, transit stays in the country or business travelers. It is important to note that while the eTA authorizes entry, the final decision on admission is made by the immigration officer at the port of entry.

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Do I need an ETA for Kenya?

All travelers planning to visit Kenya for tourism, business or private purposes need a visa. Citizens of the East African Community countries: Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda. (exempt from visa requirements for six (6) months) can enter Kenya with an ID card. All other foreigners, including citizens of the EU, the US, Canada and Russia, require an eTA. For travel in East Africa, an East African tourist visa (EATV) is issued that is valid for Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda.

The eTA takes an average of 3 working days to process, but it is recommended that you apply at least 2 weeks before travel to avoid delays. Although no vaccinations are required, a yellow fever vaccination is recommended, especially if you are traveling from regions where this disease is common. We also recommend taking out health insurance for a comfortable and safe trip to Kenya.

Types of eTAs for Kenya

The eTA for Kenya is a one-stop solution for a variety of travel purposes, providing a convenient electronic entry permit suitable for tourists, private individuals, business travelers and those in transit. Each of these categories has different characteristics, but they can all be processed online using a single eTA system.

Tourist Travel

The eTA visa for Kenya is ideal for tourists planning a short stay for vacations, sightseeing or visiting nature parks and beaches. The visa allows you to stay for up to 90 days, giving you plenty of time to explore Kenya's culture and natural beauty. Tourists must present a passport that is valid for at least another 6 months, a booking confirmation for their accommodation and a return ticket.

Private Reisen

For those traveling to Kenya to visit friends or relatives, the eTA is also suitable. Travelers must present a letter of invitation from the host and a copy of the passport or ID card of the inviting person.

Business travelers

The eTA enables short-term business trips, participation in business meetings, negotiations or conferences. To obtain a visa, the applicant needs a letter of invitation from the company stating the purpose and dates of the visit. It is important to know that eTAs cannot be used for employment or volunteer work.

Transit through Kenya

Travelers planning a short stopover in Kenya can use the eTA for transit travel if they need to travel beyond the airport transit area. For stopovers longer than 24 hours, the eTA is mandatory. A valid passport and proof of onward travel (e.g. flight tickets for the next flight) are also required to obtain a transit visa.

Who needs to apply for a Kenya eTA visa?

Most foreign nationals from the EU, US, and Russia who wish to visit Kenya for tourism, business, or private purposes are required to obtain an eTA visa. However, there are some groups of people who are exempt from the need for such a permit. The eTA exemption applies to various groups, which are listed below.

Groups of people who are exempt from the eTA requirement

Nationals of Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda can enter with their national identity cards without an eTA. These nationals are exempt from the visa requirement for stays of up to six months.
Holders of a valid Kenyan passport.
Holders of a single-entry certificate issued by Kenyan missions abroad.
Holders of a permanent residence permit, a valid work permit or a passport issued by the Kenyan migration authorities.
Holders of travel documents issued by the Kenyan government for UN employees.
Diplomats and employees of international organizations accredited in Kenya. They are exempt from the visa requirement for one day and do not require an eTA to enter the country.
Passengers in the airport transit area who do not leave the airport when transferring are exempt from the eTA fee
Passengers on board the same vessel who do not leave the vessel while it is docked in a Kenyan port.
Crew members of
Crew members of aircraft, ships, trains and other vehicles who are included on a crew list are exempt from the eTA requirement if they remain on board during their stay in Kenya. Also exempt is the crew of private aircraft refueling in Kenya, provided they do not leave the airport.

For all other foreign nationals who do not belong to the above categories, obtaining an eTA is a requirement for entry into Kenya. The application is made online and the processing time is usually up to three working days.

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Cost of a visa for Kenya

The cost of an eTA visa for Kenya consists of several mandatory and additional fees that depend on the type of visa, the nationality of the applicant and the processing time. The main components include a consular fee, which covers the processing of the application, and a service fee, which covers administrative services and processing assistance.

Additional optional services are also available for travelers:

Filling out an online visa application: to avoid mistakes during the application process.
Foreign health insurance: although not mandatory, it is recommended for travelers.
Priority Service: expedited processing of the application, which is particularly important for urgent travel

The total cost of the eTA is calculated based on the options selected, and the exact cost can be determined using the convenient visa calculator on the website. With its help, you can calculate the total cost of the visa online by adding the required additional services.

What documents are required to apply for a visa to Kenya?

A standard set of documents confirming the purpose and legality of the trip is required for a successful application for an eTA for Kenya. The basic documents include:

Passport

Photo

Contact Information

Insurance

For some nationalities, a bank statement or financial report may be required.

Why apply for a visa through Buch-dein-Visum.de?

Book-your-visa.de offers a convenient, reliable and fast eTA application service for Kenya. Applying for a visa through our platform greatly simplifies the application process and ensures that you meet all the requirements.

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Five easy steps to getting an eTA

Choose the right mode of travel

Complete the online application form

Submit the required documents.

Please wait while your application is being processed.

eTA received

FAQ

Entering Kenya with an eTA is a simple and convenient process, but many applicants still have questions. This section contains answers to frequently asked questions that will help you to better understand the specifics of the visa application, the residency requirements and other important aspects of the trip.

How long does it take to process an eTA for Kenya?

Typically, an eTA application takes 3 working days to process. However, it is recommended that you apply 2 weeks before your trip to avoid possible delays. For urgent cases, there is a priority processing service that shortens the processing time.

Can I enter Kenya more than once with an eTA?

No, the eTA is a single entry permit. This means that a new eTA must be issued for each new entry.

If you are planning to travel through Uganda and Rwanda as well, you may want to consider an East African Tourist Visa (EATV), which allows multiple entries between these countries within 90 days.

Do I need health insurance to get an eTA for Kenya?

While health insurance is not a requirement for obtaining an eTA, it is highly recommended, especially if you plan an active vacation. Health insurance protects you from possible unexpected costs.

What are the restrictions on business travel with an eTA?

Business meetings, negotiations and conferences are allowed with the eTA, but employment or volunteering in Kenya is prohibited. A special work visa is required to be employed by a local employer.

Can I change my travel date after I have received my eTA?

If your plans change, you can use the visa within the 90-day validity period of the eTA. However, if you are unable to travel within this period, you will need to apply for a new eTA.

What vaccinations are recommended before traveling to Kenya?

No vaccinations are required to enter Kenya, but a yellow fever vaccination is recommended, especially if you are coming from a region with a high risk of infection. It is also recommended that you check current requirements and guidelines before your trip.