Kenya eTA Streamlines Entry Starting 2024

Kenya has introduced a semi-automated Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) system to replace traditional visas. This mandatory digital clearance pre-screens all international travellers, ensuring a faster and more efficient entry process at all border points.

Benefits of Opting for an Electronic Travel Authorisation

The eTA system removes the need for physical embassy visits and paperwork, offering several practical advantages:

• Streamlined Application Procedure: Travelers can apply via the official portal from any location with internet access.
• Savings in Time and Expenses: Online processing is generally faster and more cost-effective than traditional consular visa processing.
• Rapid Processing Period: Most applications are approved within 3 working days, enabling short-notice travel planning.
• Convenience and Adaptability: The system accommodates a range of travel durations and purposes, from transit to long-term tourism.
• Reliable and Secure: Industry-standard encryption protects personal and payment data throughout the process.
• Dedicated Customer Assistance: Support is available to help travellers resolve technical issues or application queries.

Completing the ETA Application Process for a Visit to Kenya

The application is available 24/7 on the official government website. It is recommended to apply at least two weeks before departure.

1. Online Application: Fill out the digital form with personal and travel details.
2. Payment: Pay the non-refundable processing fee (approximately $34 USD) using a credit card, debit card, or Apple Pay.
3. Document Submission: Upload a recent photo, a passport copy (valid for 6 months), and flight/accommodation confirmations.

Once submitted, the system audits the data. Approved eTAs are sent directly to the applicant's email.

Processing Choices for eTA Applications

• Normal Processing: Standard applications typically take 3 working days.
• Expedited Processing: For urgent travel, a priority service is available for an additional fee to ensure immediate or same-day approval.

Criteria for Qualifying for an eTA to Kenya

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond the arrival date.
• Have at least one blank page in their passport.
• Travel for approved purposes, such as tourism, business, medical treatment, or transit.
• Provide proof of onward travel and accommodation.
• Possess sufficient funds for the duration of the stay.

Varieties of eTA for Travelling to Kenya

Documentation requirements vary based on the nature of the visit:

• Leisure and Recreation: Standard requirements (tickets and hotel bookings).
• Social Visits: May require an invitation letter and a copy of the host's ID.
• Professional Engagements: Requires an invitation letter from the Kenyan company or a conference registration.
• Crew and Seafaring: Requires a crew manifest or a letter from the employer.
• Official and Religious Visits: Requires official letters from the sponsoring institution or government.
• Transit: Proof of a ticket to a third-country destination.

Validity and Stay Period for eTA when Travelling in Kenya

An approved eTA is valid for travel within 90 days of issuance. Upon arrival, immigration officers typically grant a stay of up to 90 days. While the eTA is generally valid for single entry, it remains valid for re-entry if the traveller visits only East African Community (EAC) partner states (Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Burundi, South Sudan, and DR Congo) before returning to Kenya.

Cost Structure and Convenient Payment Options

The standard fee is approximately $30 USD plus processing charges. Fees are non-refundable even if the application is denied. Payment is handled through a secure digital gateway.

Crucial Documentation for a Successful eTA Application to Kenya

• Passport: The original document must be valid for at least 6 months.
• Entry Points: Travelers must enter through one of the designated international airports, seaports, or land borders.
• Itinerary: Confirmed return tickets and at least one hotel reservation are mandatory.
• Health: A Yellow Fever certificate is required if arriving from endemic countries.

Tracking the Progress of Your eTA Application

• Applicants can monitor their status on our Kenya eTA website by entering their application number and passport details. Email notifications are also sent at each stage of the process.

Designated Points of Entry for eTA Holders in Kenya

eTA holders can enter through major hubs, including:

• Airports: Jomo Kenyatta (Nairobi), Moi (Mombasa), and Wilson Airport.
• Land Borders: Busia, Namanga, and Moyale.
• Seaports: Mombasa and Lamu.

Extending or Renewing Your eTA for Prolonged Stay in Kenya

To stay longer than the initial period granted:

1. Application: Apply for a "Visitor's Pass Extension" via the eFNS portal.
2. In-Person Visit: After submitting the online application, you must visit an immigration office (in Nairobi, Mombasa, or Kisumu) for endorsement.
3. Duration: Extensions are usually granted for 90 days, allowing a total stay of up to 6 months.

Choosing Between eTA and Traditional Visa

The eTA has replaced the eVisa for almost all travellers. It is faster, entirely digital, and required for all nationalities except citizens of EAC member states. Traditional visas are now rarely issued except for specific long-term residency or work categories.

Mandatory Requirement for eTA Application

All foreign nationals, including infants and children, must have an eTA. Exemptions apply only to citizens of the EAC (Burundi, DR Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda) and holders of valid Kenyan permits or permanent residency.

Security Measures and Data Privacy for eTA Processing in Kenya

The system uses high-level encryption to secure biometric and financial data. Access is restricted to authorised immigration personnel, and data is retained only as long as legally necessary to process the application.

Travel Guidelines for an Unforgettable Experience in Kenya

• Health: Check the latest malaria and vaccination requirements before arrival.
• Safari Etiquette: Always follow guide instructions and avoid feeding wildlife.
• Currency: The Kenyan Shilling (KES) is used; mobile money (M-Pesa) is widely accepted.
• Safety: Stay updated on travel advisories for specific regions near border zones.

Terms and Conditions for the eTA Application Process in Kenya

• Accuracy: Any false information leads to immediate rejection and potential entry bans.
• Admissibility: An eTA is an "authorisation to travel" but does not guarantee entry; final approval is granted by the immigration officer at the border.
• Compliance: Visitors must respect local laws and cannot engage in paid employment on a standard tourist eTA.