What changed: Kenya eTA replaced the old general eVisa process
Kenya's Directorate of Immigration Services now operates the Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA). The eTA determines whether a traveller is eligible to travel to Kenya, but possession of an approved authorization does not itself guarantee admission. Final admissibility and the duration of stay are determined at the point of entry.
US$30
Current official base fee for one entry, excluding payment charges.
~3 working days
Some applications can take longer.
~2 weeks
Kenya recommends applying early enough to allow extra verification time.
Within 90 days
The eTA must be used for travel within 90 days of issuance.
2026 Kenya eTA fee overview
| eTA type | Official base fee | Current use |
|---|---|---|
| Transit eTA | US$20 | For travellers who require transit authorization. |
| Standard eTA | US$30 | Allows one entry into Kenya. |
| One-Year Multi-Entry eTA | US$300 | Allows multiple entries over one year. |
| Five-Year Multi-Entry eTA | US$185 | Currently listed for American nationals. |
| East African Tourist eTA | — | Live official portal currently marks this category “COMING SOON.” |
Tourist vs business entry: what documents change?
Core travel documents
- Passport valid for at least 6 months after planned arrival
- At least 1 blank passport page
- Selfie or passport-type photo
- Arrival and departure itinerary
- Accommodation booking confirmation
- Email, phone and accepted payment method
Core documents + business evidence
- All baseline traveller documents
- Invitation letter from the company
- Copy of the company's registration
- Additional conference/participation documents where applicable
Who may be exempt from Kenya eTA?
Kenya publishes exemptions based on nationality, residence or permit status, transit conditions and certain official categories. Do not use a simplified statement such as “every foreign visitor must pay for eTA.”
- Kenyan citizens and specified East African Partner State citizens.
- Holders of Kenya permanent residence, valid work permits and passes.
- Some passengers transiting without leaving airport precincts.
- Specified diplomatic, international-organisation, crew and other official categories.
- Other exemptions published in Kenya's current immigration rules.
How to check Kenya eTA status
Kenya's official portal includes both Check Status and Validate eTA functions. After application, keep the confirmation email and reference details so you can track the submitted authorization.
- Use the official Kenya eTA website for status checks.
- Keep the reference number sent after submission.
- Save the approval PDF or official mobile copy before departure.
- Use official eTA support if an application cannot be located or if a technical problem persists.
One Kenya entry authorization, nationwide travel
Travellers do not obtain separate immigration authorizations for Nairobi, Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Mombasa, Diani, Lake Nakuru or other destinations inside Kenya. Once admitted through an authorized point of entry, your domestic itinerary is governed by the conditions of admission, not by separate park or city visas.
Nairobi & airports
Understand the major aviation gateways and immigration entry points.
Kenya ports of entry →Overland routes
Plan Namanga, Busia, Malaba, Lunga Lunga and other border crossings.
Kenya border crossings →Tourist destinations
Explore Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, Nairobi and the coast.
Kenya destinations →Before boarding: traveller checklist
- Confirm whether you need eTA or qualify for an exemption.
- Use the same passport for application and travel.
- Check passport validity and blank-page requirements for your nationality.
- Make sure itinerary and accommodation evidence still match your trip.
- Save the approved eTA PDF or official digital copy.
- Check health-entry requirements based on your route.
- Review your airline's document rules before check-in.
Important correction: “90-day validity” is not the same as “90-day stay”
Kenya's official rules say the eTA is valid for travel within 90 days from the date of issuance. Once you arrive, the duration of stay is determined at the point of entry. These are different concepts and should not be merged into one “90-day visa” claim.
Independent service vs official government portal
KE-Visa is a private, independent travel-document assistance service and is not affiliated with the Government of Kenya. Travellers can apply directly through the official Government of Kenya eTA portal without using a private intermediary.
If KE-Visa offers optional application-preparation support, pricing should clearly separate the Kenyan government charge from any service fee, and the service should not be described as official government processing.
Kenya entry update FAQ
Is the old Kenya eVisa still the current system?
No. Kenya now uses the Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) system for travellers who are not exempt.
How much is the Standard Kenya eTA?
The live official eligibility page currently lists US$30 excluding payment charges.
How long does processing take?
Usually about three working days, though some applications can take longer. Kenya recommends applying about two weeks before travel where possible.
What extra documents do business travellers need?
Kenya currently lists a company invitation letter and a copy of company registration for business arrivals.
Does an approved eTA guarantee entry?
No. Kenya states that admissibility and the duration of stay are determined at the point of entry.