Electronic Travel Authorization

Electronic Travel Authorization

The Ministry of Interior and National Administration, State Department for Immigration Directorate of Immigration Services operates the Republic of Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA). An eTA is a semi-automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to Kenya. Possession of an eTA is not the final authority to enter Kenya — admissibility is determined at the point of entry. eTA applications collect biographic information and answers to eligibility questions from the traveller. Applications are usually processed in 3 days; an urgent processing service is available, but applicants are advised to apply at least 2 weeks before travel. Terms of Application The eTA is valid for travel within 90 days from the date of issuance. Once you arrive, the duration of your stay is determined at the point of entry. For more information about the eTA, kindly visit the website using https://etakenya.go.ke

Application process

How to apply

  1. Step 1

    Create an eTA account

    Register on the official eTA Kenya portal.

  2. Step 2

    Complete the application

    Fill in your travel details and upload the required documents.

  3. Step 3

    Pay the processing fee

    Pay securely online by card.

  4. Step 4

    Receive your eTA

    Your approved eTA is emailed to you — present it on arrival.

Get started

Everything you need to apply

What you’ll need

For all travellers

  • Valid passport for at least six (6) months after your planned date of arrival into Kenya, with at least one blank page
  • Selfie or passport-type photo
  • Contact information, email address and phone number
  • Details of your arrival and departure itinerary
  • Accommodation booking confirmation(s)
  • Credit card, debit card or other means of payment

Based on your purpose of visit the following may also be required:

  • Letter and/or appointment letter from the referring doctor/hospital
  • Conference invitation/participation letter
  • Employment contract
  • Supporting documents for resettlement
  • Vaccination(s) or test results certificates

For travellers arriving for business

  • Invitation letter from company
  • Copy of registration of the company

At a glance

Processing time
3–5 business days
Standard fee
USD 30 (single entry)
Express fee
USD 50 (expedited)

Eligibility

  • Most non-East African Community travellers require an ETA
  • East African Community member-state citizens enter visa-free
  • Travellers transiting through Kenya for less than 72 hours may not require an ETA
  • Children under 16 travelling with a parent or guardian who holds a valid ETA may not require one

Application process

Step 1: Prepare your documents

You will need a passport valid for at least six months, a recent passport-style photo, return ticket details, and accommodation information (hotel booking or host address).

Step 2: Apply online

Visit etakenya.go.ke, create an account, complete the application, upload your documents, and pay the fee using a valid card.

Step 3: Receive your ETA

Approved ETAs are emailed as a PDF, typically within 72 hours. Print the ETA or save it on your phone and present it on arrival in Kenya alongside your passport.

Need help?

If you have questions about the ETA process, eligibility, or your application status, contact the Consulate by email at dubai@mfa.go.ke or by phone at +971 4 342 8111.