Kenya eTA Requirements and Process for United States Citizens

If you're a U.S. citizen planning to visit Kenya, it's important to familiarize yourself with the eTA requirements. In most cases, foreign nationals, including U.S. passport holders, must obtain a Kenyan eTA before entering the country. 

However, the good news is that the eTA application process is straightforward and can be done online. This article provides a concise overview of the application process, essential requirements, and important information to help you secure a Kenyan eTA from the comfort of your own home.

What Is the Kenyan eTA for Americans and What Is It Used for?

The Kenya eTA is an eTA authorization introduced by the Kenyan government in 2015. It allows US citizens to apply online for entry into Kenya for tourism, leisure, medical, and business purposes. 

The eTA application process is completed online, eliminating the need for in-person visits to an embassy. Once approved, the eTA is delivered to US travelers via email and grants them a single-entry stay of up to 90 consecutive days. The eTA is valid for 3 months from the date of issue, providing flexibility for US citizens to enter Kenya within that timeframe.

Do US Citizens Need a eTA for Kenya?

Yes, US citizens need a eTA to enter Kenya. However, they can conveniently apply for a Kenyan eTA online, making the process quick and straightforward.

Obtaining a Kenyan eTA: Requirements for American Travelers

To obtain a Kenyan eTA, American travelers need to fulfill certain requirements. These include:

1. Valid U.S. Passport: Ensure that your passport has a minimum validity of 6 months from the intended date of entry into Kenya. Additionally, make sure it has at least one blank page for the eTA stamp.
   
   
2. Email Account: You will need an active email address to receive important communication and updates regarding your eTA application.
   
   
3. Recent Color Photograph: Provide a digital photograph taken within the past six months. The photo should be in color and meet the specified requirements for size and background.
   
   
4. Travel Itinerary: Prepare a basic travel itinerary that outlines your intended activities and destinations within Kenya. This can include details such as accommodation bookings, tourist attractions you plan to visit, or business meetings scheduled.
   
   
5. Return Ticket or Proof of Onward Travel: Present a copy of your return ticket or evidence of onward travel from Kenya. This can be in the form of a confirmed flight booking or travel reservation.
   
   
6. Debit or Credit Card: Have a valid debit or credit card to pay for the Kenyan eTA application fee. The fee amount may vary, so ensure you have sufficient funds available.

Purpose of Travel covered by the eTA:

The Kenyan eTA is available for the following purposes of travel:

• Tourism
• Visit
• Work
• Medical treatment
• Business
• Meetings / Workshop / Seminars / Training / Retreat
• Resettlement

Kenya eTA Application Guide for US Passport Holders

To apply for an eTA to Kenya as a US passport holder, you can follow these four steps:

1. Fill out the Application Form

To travel to Kenya, U.S. citizens are required to complete the Kenya eTA application form. This form collects essential information such as personal details, passport information, travel plans, and a few security questions.

2. Provide Supporting Documents

Along with the application form, applicants must also provide a digital copy of their valid U.S. passport. Additionally, depending on the specific circumstances, there may be other relevant documents required. These documents, if applicable, should also be submitted digitally.

3. Submit the Application

Once the application form is filled out with the required information, visitors must submit it for processing. The application is submitted electronically, and applicants can expect to receive their approved eTA via email.

4. Await Approval and Receive eTA

After submitting the application, applicants should allow approximately 2 to 3 business days for the processing of their eTA. Once approved, the eTA will be sent directly to the applicant's email inbox.

In summary, the process for U.S. citizens to obtain a Kenyan eTA involves filling out the application form, submitting it online along with the necessary supporting documents, and then awaiting approval and receipt of the eTA via email.

What Vaccinations Do American Citizens Need for Traveling to Kenya?

U.S. citizens visiting Kenya are not required to have any mandatory vaccinations. However, if they have recently been to a yellow fever high-risk region, they must show proof of vaccination upon arrival. It is recommended to consult a physician 6 to 10 weeks before traveling to discuss any necessary vaccinations based on individual medical history. A Travellers Health Surveillance Form is also required for entry into Kenya.

How Long Does It Take to Process a Kenya eTA Application?

The processing time for a Kenya eTA is relatively short, typically taking 1 to 4 business days if there are no issues with the application. Approved eTAs are sent directly to the applicant's email inbox.

What Is the Validity of a Kenya eTA?

The Kenya eTA allows for a single entry and is valid for up to three months. Travelers can stay in Kenya for a maximum of 90 days. eTA extensions can be obtained by visiting the Immigration Headquarters in Nairobi, but it is recommended to apply before the eTA expires. Extensions can be granted for up to an additional 90 days.

What is the cost of a Kenya eTA?

eTA fees for a Kenyan eTA vary depending on your passport country and the type of eTA you require. The total cost consists of two components: the eTA fee and an additional service fee for eTA applications. The service fee is determined by the processing speed you choose.

Breakdown of Costs:

1. eTA Fee: The eTA fee is determined by the type of eTA you are applying for and your country of origin.
   
   
2. Service Charge: All eTA applications include a service charge, which varies based on the processing time you select.

To obtain the specific cost for your eTA application, please refer to the fee calculation page for accurate information.

Can U.S. Citizens Get a eTA on Arrival in Kenya?

Since January 1, 2021, the Kenyan government has discontinued the eTA on arrival option for all foreigners. As a result, all individuals visiting Kenya must apply for an eTA prior to their arrival. It is no longer possible to obtain a eTA upon reaching the country.