Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA)
Everyone entering Kenya - including infants - needs an approved eTA before travel. Here's exactly how to get one.
Only through the official government site
Apply at www.etakenya.go.ke - the only official channel. Third-party sites will charge more and cannot guarantee faster processing; applications submitted elsewhere are automatically denied.
We recommend applying 2 weeks ahead of travel, though submissions open up to 3 months before departure. Apply as soon as your accommodation and flights are booked.
Apply at etakenya.go.ke11 steps, done from home
What it costs
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Standard processing fee | $32.50 |
| Bank fee | $1.59 |
| Total | $34.09 |
EAC passport holders skip the eTA entirely
Passport holders from Burundi, DR Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda don't need an eTA (though residents of these countries without that citizenship still do).
Diplomats, UN officials and Laissez Passer holders are exempt from the fee but should still consider urgent processing if needed. Travellers with a valid East Africa Tourist Visa or existing Kenya eVisa also skip the eTA.
Kenya eTA - your questions answered
How long does the eTA take to process?
Usually 3 working days, though it can take longer. Urgent/expedited processing is available if you need a faster decision.
How long is the eTA valid for?
90 days from the date of issue, for a single entry into Kenya. It doesn't need renewing if it expires while you're already in the country.
Do children and infants need an eTA?
Yes - every foreign visitor needs one. A parent, legal guardian or accompanying adult completes the application for anyone under 18; families are encouraged to apply as a group.
Is the eTA valid for multiple entries?
It's single-entry by default, but remains valid for re-entry if you visit another EAC state (Burundi, DR Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda) and don't leave the region, within the 90-day window. Multiple-entry eTAs valid for 1 or 5 years are also available based on nationality.
Which nationalities are exempt from the fee?
Citizens of Botswana, Eswatini, Gambia, Ghana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Sierra Leone, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Union of Comoros, Republic of Congo (Brazzaville), Eritrea, Ethiopia, Mozambique, San Marino and South Africa still apply but don't pay.
What if my application is denied?
You won't be able to travel until it's resolved. Contact etakenya@immigration.go.ke to report your situation and get further guidance.