What changed from Kenya eVisa to Kenya eTA?
Kenya eVisa
Older travel websites and search results may still refer to tourist eVisa, business eVisa or visa on arrival.
Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation
Kenya's Directorate of Immigration Services currently operates the eTA system for travellers who are not exempt.
Should this page redirect to /kenya-eta/?
Not necessarily. From an SEO perspective, `/e-visa/` can serve a distinct purpose by capturing legacy “Kenya eVisa” search intent and immediately directing users toward the current Kenya eTA system. `/kenya-eta/` should remain the main evergreen pillar page for current eTA information.
Current Kenya eTA requirements
- Passport valid for at least 6 months after the planned arrival date.
- At least 1 blank passport page.
- Selfie or passport-type photograph.
- Email address and telephone number.
- Arrival and departure itinerary.
- Accommodation booking confirmation.
- Credit card, debit card or another supported means of payment.
Kenya may request additional evidence for business, family visits, conferences, medical travel, employment, resettlement or other travel purposes.
Current Kenya eTA fees
Transit eTA
US$20For travellers who require a transit authorization.
Standard eTA
US$30Current base fee for one entry into Kenya.
One-Year Multi-Entry
US$300For multiple entries during a one-year period.
Five-Year Multi-Entry
US$185Current live eligibility page lists this category for American nationals.
How to apply under the current eTA system
Check if you are exempt
Kenya publishes nationality, residence, permit and transit exemptions.
Prepare your passport and documents
Make sure details match your actual itinerary.
Submit the eTA application
Use Kenya's official portal or an independent assistance service if you choose.
Pay the applicable fee
Keep government fees separate from any optional agency service fee.
Track the application
Use the official Check Status function and your reference number.
Travel after approval
Where eTA is required, do not rely on getting the old eVisa or a visa on arrival at the airport.
Processing time and validity
| Topic | Current Kenya guidance |
|---|---|
| Processing | Usually around 3 business days, although some applications can take longer. |
| Recommended timing | Apply at least 2 weeks before travel where possible. |
| Travel-use validity | The eTA is valid for travel within 90 days from issuance. |
| Duration of stay | Determined by immigration at the point of entry. |
Who may not need Kenya eTA?
Kenya publishes exemptions for several categories. The current rules include specified East African Partner State citizens, holders of Kenya permanent residence, valid work permits and passes, certain transit passengers, and additional exempt categories.
Already submitted an application?
Use the official Kenya eTA Check Status function and keep the reference number sent after submission. Kenya's portal also provides a Validate eTA function.
Related current Kenya eTA guides
Kenya eTA Requirements
Passport, photo, accommodation and supporting-document guidance.
View requirements →Kenya eVisa and eTA FAQ
Is the Kenya eVisa still the current system?
No. Current visitor guidance should use the Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) framework.
How much is the current Standard Kenya eTA?
The official live eligibility page currently lists US$30 excluding payment charges.
How long does processing take?
Usually around three business days, but Kenya recommends applying at least two weeks before travel.
Does an eTA guarantee entry?
No. Kenya states that admissibility and permitted stay are decided at the point of entry.
Official sources and independent-service disclosure
KE-Visa is a private, independent travel-document assistance service and is not affiliated with the Government of Kenya. Travellers may apply directly through Kenya's official eTA portal.