Kenya eTA Requirements and Process for France Citizens

The Kenya eTA is an online eTA option available for French citizens planning to visit Kenya. It caters to various purposes such as holidays, business trips, medical treatment, and more. 

Since 2021, it has become mandatory for French visitors to apply for an eTA prior to their travel to Kenya. Fortunately, the application process is quick and convenient due to the online system in place.

Do France Citizens Need a eTA for Kenya?

French nationals planning to visit Kenya must obtain a eTA as per the country's eTA policy.

For short-term stays in Kenya, French travelers are required to apply for an eTA (eTA) online. 

The eTA is necessary for the following purposes:

1. Tourism
2. Visit
3. Work
4. Medical treatment
5. Business
6. Meetings / Workshop / Seminars / Training / Retreat
7. Resettlement

To obtain an eTA, French visitors need to fill out a quick online form with their details. The process is simple and streamlined, facilitating a smoother eTA application experience.

Other Types of Travel to Kenya

If French nationals intend to travel to Kenya for reasons other than those mentioned above, such as relocation, work, or study, they must visit the nearest Kenya embassy or consulate. It is necessary to follow the specific procedures outlined by the embassy or consulate for such purposes.

How Does the Kenya eTA Application Process Work for French Nationals?

In 2015, Kenya introduced the eTA (eTA) system, allowing citizens of over 140 countries, including France, to apply for entry authorization.

Since 2021, French visitors to Kenya are required to obtain the eTA online, replacing the previous eTA on arrival service.

The approved Kenya eTA grants French citizens a maximum stay of 90 consecutive days.

The eTA is designed for tourism, business, Visit or medical purposes etc during short stays in Kenya.

Validity of Kenya eTA for French Citizens

Online eTA for Kenya (eTA) for French visitors is valid for 3 months from the date of issue. It is a single-entry eTA, requiring a new eTA for each entry. There is no multiple-entry visit eTA for Kenya. French applicants can extend their eTA for an additional 90 days by visiting the immigration headquarters in Nairobi on the day their eTA expires.

Required Documents for French Nationals Applying for the Kenya eTA

French citizens can easily and conveniently apply for a Kenya eTA. The eTA requirements for French nationals traveling to Kenya are as follows:

1. Valid French passport: Ensure that your passport is valid and will remain so for at least 6 months from your intended date of entry.
   
   
2. Color passport-style photograph: Provide a recent photograph that meets the required specifications for a passport photo.
   
   
3. Current email address: You will need to provide an active email address for communication and to receive updates regarding your eTA application.
   
   
4. Credit or debit card for processing fee: Have a valid credit or debit card ready to pay the necessary processing fee for your eTA application.

In addition to the above requirements, there are certain specifications for the French passport itself:

• The passport should have a minimum of 2 blank pages to accommodate immigration stamps.

Furthermore, you may be asked to submit additional documents:

• Proof of accommodation: Provide evidence of your intended accommodation in Kenya, such as a hotel reservation or a letter from your host.
  
  
• Referral or invitation letter from host: If applicable, you may need to obtain a referral or invitation letter from your host in Kenya.

By ensuring that you meet these requirements and have the necessary documents ready, you can make the application process for a Kenya eTA smooth and hassle-free for French citizens.

Linking a French Passport to the Kenya Online eTA

Once approved, the Kenya eTA is electronically linked to your French passport. Losing or having your passport stolen means applying for a new eTA with the new passport details. If the passport expires before the eTA's validity period ends, the eTA will also expire.

Step-by-Step Guide: Applying for the Kenya eTA as a French National

To visit Kenya, visitors from France are required to complete a simple online eTA application form. This process can be completed quickly and involves entering the necessary information into the designated fields.

Personal Information

When filling out the online eTA application form, you will need to provide some basic personal details, including:

• Name
• Nationality
• Date of birth

Passport Details

Additionally, you will be required to enter the following information from your valid French passport:

• Passport number
• Date of issue
• Date of expiry

Travel Plans

As part of the application process, you will also need to provide information regarding your travel plans. This includes:

• Accommodation details in Kenya
• Arrival date in the country
• Departure date from the country

Easy and Quick Process

Completing the online eTA application form is a straightforward task that only takes a few minutes. Once you have entered all the necessary information, French applicants can simply submit the form for processing.

By following these steps, visitors from France can easily complete their Kenyan eTA application and look forward to an enjoyable trip to Kenya.

Processing Time for Kenya eTA Applications from French Travelers

Your Kenya eTA is processed rapidly, usually within 24 hours of submission. However, it is advisable to allow for a few business days for processing.

Document Preparation

After receiving your approved eTA, it is important to print a copy and carry it with you during your trip. Additionally, make sure to gather the following documents:

1. Valid French Passport: Bring the same French passport that was used for your eTA application. Ensure that it is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Kenya.
   
   
2. Proof of Sufficient Funds: Have documentation to demonstrate that you possess enough funds to cover your expenses throughout your stay in Kenya. This can include bank statements or any other evidence of financial capacity.

3. Hotel Reservations: Carry proof of your hotel reservations to confirm your accommodation arrangements while in Kenya. This can be in the form of a confirmation email or a printed reservation voucher.

4. Proof of Onward or Return Travel: Present evidence of onward or return travel, such as your plane ticket or itinerary. This confirms that you have plans to leave Kenya after your visit. Make sure to carry a printed copy or have it readily accessible on your electronic device.

By organizing these documents in advance and bringing them along, you can ensure a smooth entry into Kenya with your approved eTA.

Payment Methods for Kenya eTA Application Fees

Accepted payment methods for Kenya eTA application fees include:

1. Credit Card: eTA, Mastercard, American Express, etc.
   
   
2. Debit Card: eTA, Mastercard, Maestro, etc.
   
   
3. Online Payment Platforms: PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, etc.
   
   
4. Mobile Payment Services: M-Pesa (Kenya-specific mobile payment service).

Ensure you have a valid payment method ready when applying for your Kenya eTA to complete the application process successfully.

Extending Your Kenya eTA: A Guide for French Nationals

If you're a French national and need to extend your Kenya eTA, here's what you need to know:

1. Eligibility: French citizens can apply for a eTA extension if they meet certain criteria.
2. Application Process: To extend your eTA, visit the nearest immigration office in Kenya and complete the required forms.
3. Required Documents: Prepare the following documents for your eTA extension application:
• Valid French passport (with a minimum of six months' validity remaining)
• Current Kenya eTA
• Proof of sufficient funds for the extended stay
• Updated travel itinerary
4. Processing Time: The eTA extension process may take several business days. It's recommended to apply well in advance of your eTA's expiration date.
5. Additional Information: Contact the Kenya Immigration Department for any specific requirements or updates regarding eTA extensions.

Remember to plan ahead and ensure that your eTA remains valid throughout your stay in Kenya.