All You Need to Know About Kenya’s eVisa System

All You Need to Know About Kenya’s eVisa System

The Kenya eVisa is an electronic single-entry visa that allows its holders to cross the Kenyan border and stay for up to 90 days (3 months). The move to the eVisa was a bold policy that was announced by the government on December 12 2023.

Through the eVisa, it is now possible to handle a Kenyan visa without having to spend time and effort to visit a Kenyan Embassy, and filling the paperwork needed for obtaining a regular visa.

Completing the online visa application takes just a few minutes and can be done from the comfort of your home so long as you have stable internet connection. Traveling to Kenya for passport holders of eligible countries has become easier upon your application of visa online.

Steps to Apply for the eVisa

1. Visit https://www.etakenya.go.ke/en – this is the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) website.
2. Fill out the application – Complete the application form with personal details, passport information, and travel plans. Kindly double-check the information to ensure you provide the correct information as any errors could delay your application.
3. Upload the required documents – You will need to upload soft copies of the following documents:
   1. Passport: A clean scan of your passport’s bio data page.
   1. Photo: A recent passport-size photograph.
   1. Additional information: Depending on the purpose of the visit, you will need to upload more documents, such as hotel booking confirmation and copy of your flight itinerary.
4. Pay the fee: The next step is you will need to pay the visa fee online. The eVisa system accepts payment in USD in both debit and credit cards. Ensure the payment method is ready before you begin the application process to avoid interruptions.
5. Wait for approval: You will need to wait after you submit the application and make the necessary payments. The processing time does not take more than 72 hours. However, it is good to apply well in advance of your travel date to avoid any inconveniences that may arise.

• Print the eVisa: After the eVisa is approved, you will receive an email confirmation with the document attached. Print the document and keep it with your passport. It is important to have a hard copy of the document to present it on your arrival in Kenya.
• Show your eVisa on arrival: Present your eVisa and passport to immigration officials. The officials will verify the documents and allow you to enter the country.

Conclusion

The Kenyan government has streamlined the visa application process. This has made it more efficient and accessible to travelers. By following these steps, you can easily obtain your eVisa and focus on planning your much-awaited trip to Kenya.

Should you need any assistance, feel free to contact Safari Update Travels and we will be ready to assist you in any step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the available visas to visit Kenya?

The Kenya ETA now serves as a replacement for the previous short stay visas. The ETA is your ticket to brief stays, whether you are in the country for tourism, business, educational pursuits, or health-related visits, or transiting through the country.

If you plan to stay in the country for more than 90 days, then you will need to secure the right visa from a Kenyan embassy or consulate near you.

What is the duration of the Kenya ETA?

The ETA is valid for 90 days after issued and allows for a Single Entry into the country.

Who should apply for the Kenya ETA?

Every international traveler including babies and minors must secure a Kenyan ETA before they step into the country.

Citizens from East Africa Partner States – Tanzania, Uganda, Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Rwanda do not need to apply for an ETA.

What are the other documents needed to enter Kenya?

To enter Kenya, you will typically need a valid Kenya ETA and a valid passport. Depending on the purpose of your travel, you may be needed to show additional documentation to the immigration authorities. For example, if you are traveling for medical reasons, you will need to show a referral letter from a hospital or doctor. If you are traveling for work, you will need to show an employment contract.

Need more Information?

If you have more questions about applying for ETA and the documents you need to visit Kenya, feel free to contact us via email or WhatsApp on the numbers shown on the website. We are willing and ready to assist you.