How long it takes to get a eTA from Kenya

The Kenyan government issues the eTA as an authorised travel document granting foreign nationals permission to enter and remain in the country for designated activities and timeframes.

Processing times for a Kenyan eTA depend on multiple factors, including the selected application channel, eTA category, and current system workload. Once issued, the eTA remains valid for 90 days, during which travellers must enter Kenya.

It's important to note that your permitted stay period starts on your actual arrival date in Kenya, not on the date the eTA was issued.

General Information about the Kenya eTA:

1. eTA Processing Time:

The processing time for an eTA application can range from a few days to a few weeks. Processing an online Kenyan eTA application typically takes 3-5 Days. Travellers can expect to receive their eTA within this time. It is recommended to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates to allow sufficient time for processing.

There are several reasons an eTA to Kenya may not be approved. Some of the most common reasons include:

• Incomplete or incorrect information: If your eTA application is incomplete or contains erroneous information, it may be denied. Make sure tocarefully review the eTA application requirementsand provide all the requested information.
• Insufficient funds: The Kenyan government requires that all visitors have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay. This means that you must show proof of financial support, such as a bank statement or a letter from your employer.
• Lack of a valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of arrival from Kenya. It must also have at least 1 blank page for eTA stamps.
• Criminal record: If you have a criminal record, you may be denied an eTA to Kenya. This is because the Kenyan government considers you to be a potential risk to national security.
• Medical reasons: If you have a serious medical condition, you may be denied an eTA to Kenya. This is because the Kenyan government may not be able to provide you with the necessary medical care.
• Previous eTA violations: If you have overstayed a prior eTA to Kenya or have otherwise violated Kenyan immigration laws, you may be denied a new eTA.

2. Online eTA Application:

Kenya offers an eTA system that allows tourists to apply online before travelling. The online application process is straightforward and requiressubmitting the necessary documents and paying the eTA fee electronically. The eTA is typically processed within a few business days.

You will need to create an account and provide the following information:

• Your personal information, such as your name, date of birth, and passport number
• Your contact information, such as your email address and mailing address
• Your travel information, such as the dates of your visit to Kenya and the purpose of your visit
• The required supporting documents include a passport-size photograph, a letter from your employer or school, and proof of financial support.

3. Kenyan Embassies/Consulates:

The Embassy of the United States in Nairobi is the largest in Kenya. Tourists can also apply for an eTA through the Kenyan Embassy or Consulate in their home country.

If you are applying for an eTA from a Kenyan embassy/consulate that does not accept online eTA applications, you will need to apply for an eTA in person. You can find alist of Kenyan embassiesand consulates on the Kenyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

The application process, requirements, and processing times may vary by embassy or consulate. It is advisable to contact the embassy/consulate directly for specific instructions.

4. eTA Validity:

The validity of an eTA for Kenya depends on the type of eTA and the traveller's nationality. Generally, an eTA is valid for stays of up to 90 days within a specific period, usually 3 to 6 months, or even 1 year. The validity of an eTA in Kenyadepends on the type of eTA you are applying for.

Here are the different types of Kenyan eTA and their validity periods:

• Single-Entry eTA: This eTA allows you to enter Kenya once and stay for up to 90 days.
• Multiple-Entry eTA: This eTA allows you to enter Kenya multiple times and stay for up to 1 Year per entry.

The validity period of your eTA will be stamped in your passport upon application. You should check the validity period of your eTA before you travel to Kenya to ensure you have enough time to stay in the country.

5. eTA Renewal:

If you wish to extend your stay in Kenya beyond the validity of your eTA, you can apply for an eTA extension or renewal. The cost of extending your eTA will vary depending on the type of eTA you are extending. You can find the cost of extending your eTA on the Kenyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Here are some of the reasons why you may need to renew your eTA:

• Your eTA has expired: If your eTA has expired, you will need to renew it to remain in Kenya legally.
• Your eTA is damaged or lost: If your eTA is damaged or lost, you will need to renew it to obtain a new one.
• You have changed your personal information: If you have changed your name or other personal details since you obtained your eTA, you will need to renew it to reflect those changes.
• You have changed your travel plans: If you will be staying in Kenya for a more extended period than initially planned, you may need to renew your eTA.
• You have found a job in Kenya: If you have found a job in Kenya and will be staying in the country for an extended period, you may need to renew your eTA.

It is best to consult the official website of the Kenyan Department of Immigration or contact the nearest Kenyan Embassy/Consulate. They can provide specific details based on your nationality and the type of eTA you are applying for.

The number of eTA issued by Kenya has been increasing in recent years. This is likely due to several factors, including the country's growing tourism industry and its expanding economic ties with other countries.