Kenya E-Visa (eTA) for US Citizens: Your Essential Travel Guide

Effective January 2024, Kenya introduced a visa-free policy for all international travelers, which requires the completion of an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). While frequently referred to as the "E-Visa," the Kenya eTA is the new, mandatory electronic travel document for U.S. citizens and all foreign visitors.

This digital system determines your eligibility to enter Kenya before you travel, guaranteeing a smoother and faster arrival process. This guide provides the facts you need to know and the steps you need to take to obtain your Kenya eTA quickly and accurately.

What is the Kenya E-Visa (eTA)?

The Kenya eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is not a visa. It is a mandatory digital travel permission that permits you to board a flight or vessel to Kenya for short-term visits.

Do I Need a Kenya eTA?

Yes, you need a Kenya eTA. While the country is technically "visa-free," all foreign nationals (including U.S. citizens of all ages) must apply for and obtain an approved Kenya eTA before the start of their journey.

You must get an eTA if your purpose is:

Tourism, recreation, or holiday travel.
Short-term business activities (meetings, conferences).
Visiting family or friends.

Note: The Kenya eTA is generally valid for a single entry for a stay of up to 90 days. However, it allows for re-entry into Kenya if you are traveling to/from other East African Community (EAC) member states (like Tanzania or Uganda).

Kenya eTA Features: Validity and Stay Limits

The Kenya eTA offers foreign travelers authorization to visit Kenya for short stays.

Feature	Details
Official Government Fees:	$30 USD (Processing fee for the eTA).
Validity/Duration of Stay:	90 days from the date of issue, per entry. Granted by the Immigration Officer upon arrival. You must enter Kenya within this window.
Entries/Uses:	Single Entry (unless traveling to an EAC country and re-entering).

Applying for Your eTA: DIY vs. Full-Service

Kenya's eTA system is entirely online, and the eTA is mandatory for all foreign travelers as Kenya no longer offers a Visa on Arrival (VoA).

Applying On Your Own (DIY): Travelers can submit their application via the official government portal at https://evisa.go.ke/. This requires careful entry of all information and ensuring documents meet the correct specifications.
The Full-Service Route (Simple and Secure): For travelers who prefer a streamlined application process and expert review, a dedicated service is a great option. iVisa simplifies the submission process, checks documentation against government specifications, and provides 24/7 multilingual support.

The Official Kenya eTA Process: A 3-Step Guide

The eTA application should be submitted well before your travel date to ensure approval.

Processing Time (Standard):	3 business days. It is recommended to apply at least 7 days before your trip to account for processing times.
Use:	Required for boarding; must be printed and presented at the port of entry.

Step 1: Get Your Information Ready

Your valid U.S. passport (valid for at least 6 months from the date of intended entry).
A digital copy of your passport's bio page.
A recent digital passport-style photograph (or a selfie taken during the application). This photo must meet passport standards: taken against a white/off-white background, with a neutral expression, and no glasses or headwear (except for religious purposes).
Travel itinerary, flight details, and accommodation confirmation (e.g., hotel booking or host details).
Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate (if coming from an endemic country).
A credit/debit card for the non-refundable fee.

Step 2: Complete the Kenya eTA Online Application

Access the official Kenya eTA portal or use an accredited service like iVisa.
Select the correct entry category (e.g., Tourism).
Fill out the comprehensive application form and upload all required documents and photographs.

Step 3: Pay and Receive Your Kenya eTA

Pay the non-refundable $30 USD government fee.
Submit your application.
Confirmation: You will receive the decision via email, usually within the 3 business day window.
Once approved, you must download and print the Kenya eTA approval document to present to the airline upon check-in and to the Immigration Officer upon arrival.

Beyond the eTA: Other Kenya Entry Requirements

The eTA permits you to travel to Kenya, but final admission remains at the discretion of the Immigration Officer. An approved eTA does not guarantee entry into Kenya. Immigration officers retain the final authority on admission.

Be prepared to show:

Printed Kenya eTA Approval: A physical, printed copy of your approved authorization.
Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 months beyond your date of arrival and have at least 1 blank passport page.
Proof of Onward Travel: Confirmed return or onward ticket proving planned departure from Kenya.

Note on Visa Extension: The stay granted upon arrival (typically 90 days) can be renewed for a further 90 days at the Immigration Headquarters in Nairobi. The maximum stay for any visitor cannot exceed 180 days (6 months) in total.

Kenya E-Visa (eTA) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the Kenya E-Visa now the Kenya eTA?

A: Yes. As of January 2024, Kenya transitioned to the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system, effectively making the country "visa-free" but requiring this electronic pre-screening.

Is the Kenya eTA the same as a visa?

A: No. The Kenya eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is not the same as a visa, although it has replaced the old eVisa system for most travelers.

Is the Kenya eTA a single or multiple entry permit?

A: The Kenya eTA is generally a single-entry permit. However, if you travel temporarily to another East African Community (EAC) member state (Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, etc.), your eTA remains valid for re-entry into Kenya.

What is Kenya eTA's official fee?

A: The official non-refundable processing fee charged by the Kenyan government for the eTA is $30 USD. Third-party services, like iVisa, charge an additional service fee for their assistance, review, and support.

How long can I stay in Kenya with an eTA?

A: The Kenya eTA grants a maximum stay of up to 90 days upon arrival. This stay can be extended once, for a maximum total stay of 180 days.

Do I need a Yellow Fever Certificate?

A: You may need a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate if you are arriving from an endemic country. Check the latest requirements from the World Health Organization (WHO) or your airline.

Need a fast, simple way to secure your Kenya eTA? Apply for your Kenya e-Visa/eTA quickly and securely with iVisa today! Let iVisa help you navigate the process and ensure your documents are prepared for your Kenyan journey.