Kenya's ETA System: Progress or Burden for Travellers?

On January 1, 2024, Kenya transitioned from traditional visa requirements to the Kenya eTA system. At the time of its introduction, the policy generated dissatisfaction among travellers from 51 countries, including South Africa and Malawi, which had previously enjoyed visa-free access. President William Ruto introduced the initiativeas part of a broader strategy to strengthen local tourism, with a target of attracting over 5 million visitors. Today, the Kenya eTA system remains in place and continues to be issued as Kenya’s primary entry authorisation for eligible travellers.

How did the Kenya eTA Entry System work?

The core of the Kenya eTA system was a mandatory process under which all eligible travellers were required to complete the Kenya eTA application form and pay the applicable fee. Once approved, the eTA was issued electronically and delivered to the applicant via email prior to travel.

Although the transition was presented as a progressive and globally inclusive measure, it resulted in additional financial and administrative obligations for travellers from the 51 countries that had previously been exempt from visa requirements.

Challenges and Criticisms of the ETA

Under the system as it was introduced, each eTA was issued for a single entry, and travellers were required to exit Kenya before applying for a new authorisation, effectively limiting repeat visits within short timeframes. This structure attracted criticism from various stakeholders, who argued that it restricted travel flexibility and disproportionately affected frequent travellers.

At the time, the eTA was widely characterised as a revenue-oriented measure rather than a facilitative border-control reform, with comparisons drawn to the previous visa framework, which had been more accommodating, particularly for nationals who had earlier benefited from visa-free access. Critics also highlighted that travellers were required to pay a fee for an authorisation that was not classified as a visa and submit a new application for every entry, making repeat travel more costly and time-consuming.

Defence of the ETA System

At the time of its rollout, the eTA system was defended by government authorities as a necessary tool for collecting pre-arrival traveller details to support national security planning, infrastructure management, and insurance-related assessments. Officials stated that the previous framework did not provide a structured mechanism to capture essential data from travellers originating from the 51 previously exempt countries.

The introduction of the eTA was therefore presented as a means of establishing a comprehensive visitor data system, intended to enhance the safety of both visitors and Kenyan citizens.

According to official figures released during the early implementation phase, the eTA platform had processed a portion of the applications submitted at that time. Authorities also maintained that the system significantly reduced processing times, shortening approval periods from up to 14 days under the traditional visa system to approximately 72 hours under the eTA framework. Despite these stated advantages, the transition to the eTA system continued to generate debate among travellers who had previously benefited from visa-free entry arrangements.

Current Status as of 2026

At present, the Kenya eTA application process remains unchanged. It applies only to short-term travel purposes, including tourism, business visits, visiting friends or family, medical care, religious visits, and transit.

The Kenya eTA is available to travellers holding passports from countries eligible for the Kenya eTA, as determined by Kenyan immigration authorities. The eTA does not cover long-term employment, residence, or study, which continue to require separate visas or permits issued by the relevant Kenyan immigration authorities.

Kenya eTA Options, Validity Periods, and Stay Limits

Requirements

To apply for the eTA, applicants must submit documents such as an eTA-eligible passport, a passport-size photograph, travel proof, accommodation details, etc. The documents required for the Kenya eTA may vary depending on the selected purpose of travel; therefore, applicants should ensure they are prepared to provide purpose-specific supporting documents when applying.

Application Process

To apply, applicants must:

Step 1: Complete the Application Form: Fill out the Kenya eTA Application form by providing valid passport information and relevant travel details, upload the documents and submit the application.

Step 2: Pay the Fee: Proceed to pay the Kenya eTA Fee using a valid credit or debit card, or through PayPal. Once the fee is paid, you will receive a confirmation email.

Step 3: Receive Approval: The approved Kenya eTA will be delivered via email. Applicants are advised to carry a printed or digital copy for immigration checks.

Advantages of eTA

The Kenya eTA offers a streamlined and efficient entry process for eligible travellers:

1. Advance Travel Authorisation: Travellers receive entry authorisation in advance, reducing uncertainty at the port of entry.
2. Paperless Process: The eTA removes the need for physical visa stickers or in-person submissions.
3. Remote Accessibility: Applications can be submitted from anywhere, making the process accessible regardless of location.
4. Improved Travel Planning: Clear validity and stay conditions allow travellers to plan itineraries with greater confidence.
5. Reduced Administrative Burden: The digital system streamlines processing for both travellers and immigration authorities, improving overall efficiency.
6. Continuous Expert Support: Applicants benefit from ongoing assistance and guidance from visa experts throughout the application process.

Kenya eTA Sample

FAQs

Can I extend my stay in Kenya with an eTA?

Extension of stay is not guaranteed and is subject to approval by Kenyan immigration authorities. Travellers seeking longer stays should apply for the appropriate visa or permit.

Do children need a Kenya eTA?

Yes. All travellers, including minors, must hold an approved Kenya eTA unless exempt under specific diplomatic or nationality-based provisions.

Can I apply for the Kenya eTA after arriving in Kenya?

No. The Kenya eTA must be approved before travel. Applications submitted after arrival are not accepted.

Is the Kenya eTA linked electronically to my passport?

Yes. The eTA is linked to the passport used for the application and must match the passport presented at entry.