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Kenya Visa Guide 2024: ETA Requirements, Costs, and How to Apply

By Published 3 min read
Southern Ethiopia, Arbore man with his catch of the day1

Kenya introduced the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system in January 2024, replacing the previous single-entry and multiple-entry visa categories. The change simplified the process for most nationalities while introducing new requirements that travellers must understand before booking.

Key Message: All visitors to Kenya now require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) obtained online before arrival. The process takes 2–3 business days. Do not rely on obtaining authorisation at the airport.

The ETA System: What It Is and How It Works

The Kenya ETA is applied for at the official portal (etakenya.go.ke). Applicants upload a passport scan, a recent photograph, and proof of accommodation and onward travel. The system processes applications in 2–3 business days. The ETA costs USD 30 for most nationalities and is valid for 90 days, permitting a single stay of up to 90 days within that window.

Nairobi airport international arrivals
JKIA international arrivals — Nairobi’s main international gateway | Free use / CC0
Statistic: Kenya processed over 1.5 million ETA applications in the first year of the new system (2024), with a 94% approval rate and an average processing time of 36 hours.

East Africa Tourist Visa

A separate multi-country option — the East Africa Tourist Visa (EATV) — covers Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda in a single application for USD 100. This is the recommended option for travellers planning a gorilla trekking extension in Uganda or Rwanda alongside a Kenya safari. It allows multiple entries across the three countries during a 90-day validity period.

Kenya Tanzania border crossing
Kenya-Tanzania border post at Namanga | Free use / CC0
“I have guided guests across the Kenya-Tanzania border hundreds of times. The paperwork was always the strangest part of the safari. The ETA has made it simpler — apply before you leave home and it is done.”
Nikos Pocock, Head Guide & Co-founder, Africa Calling Safaris

Entry Requirements Beyond the ETA

Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers arriving from yellow fever endemic countries. Some nationalities are exempt from this requirement; check current KCAA guidance for your passport. A return or onward ticket and evidence of accommodation may be requested at immigration.

Which nationalities do not require an ETA for Kenya?
East African Community citizens (Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, DRC) and some other African nationalities are exempt. Check the official ETA portal for the current exemption list, as it is periodically updated.

Can I apply for the Kenya ETA on arrival?
The ETA should be obtained before departure. The system does not operate at the airport in a walk-in capacity. Airlines may deny boarding to passengers without a valid ETA.

Is the Kenya ETA the same as a Kenya e-visa?
The ETA replaced the previous e-visa system in January 2024. They are separate systems; the ETA portal is the only valid route for new applications.

Do I need a separate visa for Tanzania?
Yes. Tanzania has its own visa requirements, separate from Kenya. Tanzania also has an online e-visa system. Apply separately if your itinerary includes both countries and you are not using the EATV.

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About the author

Nikos Pocock

Nikos Pocock is the Managing Director of Africa Calling Safaris, a Kenya-based safari operator. With more than a decade of experience leading expeditions across East Africa, he combines deep field knowledge with a passion for conservation and responsible tourism. Nikos oversees all editorial content at Safari News.

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