Kenya Visa

Do You Need a Visa to Enter Kenya?

As of January 1, 2024, Kenya no longer issues traditional visas for most short-term travellers. Instead, all foreign nationals (regardless of nationality) must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before arrival.

This applies to all tourists, business visitors, family guests, and those in transit, except citizens of East African Community (EAC) member states, who are exempt.

Good to know:

The Kenya eTA allows single entry and is valid for up to 90 days from the date of issue. It must be applied for before your departure.

How to Apply for the Kenya Eta

Applying for the Kenya eTA is a quick and fully online process. You can do it from home in under 15 minutes.

Steps to Apply:

• Visit the official Kenya eTA portal.
• Fill out the online form with your passport and travel details
• Upload required documents (listed below)
• Pay the processing fee (usually between $30–$50)
• Submit and wait for approval via email (processing takes about 2–3 business days)

Once approved, you’ll receive a PDF copy of your eTA via email. Print it out and carry it with your passport when travelling.

Required Documents for the Kenya eTA

To complete your application, have the following ready:

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry)
• Recent passport photo (clear, unedited, not older than 6 months)
• Flight details (arrival and return or connecting flight info)
• Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host invitation letter)
• Contact details (home address, phone number, email)
• Yellow fever certificate (if you're arriving from or transiting through an endemic country)

If you're unsure about the yellow fever requirement, check the WHO list of affected countries or ask our team for guidance.

When Should You Apply?

AIt’s best to apply for your eTA at least 5 days before your departure to avoid last-minute delays. Processing times are usually fast, but occasional delays can happen, especially during high travel seasons.

Kenya eTA vs. Visa: What’s the Difference?

The eTA is not a visa, but it serves a similar purpose. It is a mandatory travel clearance for all visitors to Kenya. The key differences:

Category	eTA (2024 onward)	Visa (Phased Out)
Application	Online only	Online or an embassy
Cost	USD 30–USD 50	USD 50
Validity	Up to 90 days	Up to 90 days
Who Needs It	All foreigners	Previously nationality-based

Can I Enter Kenya Without an eTA?

No, unless you are a citizen of an East African Community (EAC) country. All other nationalities must apply for an eTA before arrival, even if you’re just transiting through Kenya.

If you arrive in Kenya without an approved eTA, you may be denied boarding or entry, so it’s critical to complete this step in advance.

What If My eTA Is Delayed or Rejected?

If your Kenya eTA status shows "in process", give it a little time—most applications are approved within 48–72 hours. If it remains pending beyond this, check your email's spam folder or contact the Kenya eTA support team.

In case your application is rejected, the most common reasons include:

• Missing or incorrect information in the form
• A passport with less than 6 months of validity
• An improper photo that doesn’t meet requirements

If your application is denied, review the rejection message, correct the issues, and reapply.

Customs Information for Safari Travellers

Visitors entering Kenya for tourism purposes are allowed to bring in up to $500 worth of personal goods duty-free, including non-consumable and consumable items. This typically includes:

• Personal clothing
• Cameras and binoculars for game drives
• Personal hygiene items
• Non-alcoholic beverages and small quantities of tobacco

Kenyan customs officers are generally helpful and efficient, especially at major airports like Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). If you're travelling with professional camera equipment or drones, please inform us in advance, as some items require special clearance.

Common Questions from Our Safari Guests

Is my Kenya eTA valid for multiple entries?

No. The eTA is valid for a single entry only. If you plan to leave and re-enter Kenya (e.g., after visiting Tanzania or Uganda), you will need a new eTA—or consider the East Africa Tourist Visa if visiting multiple countries in the region.

Can children travel without a separate eTA?

All travellers, including minors, need their own eTA. Applications for children must be submitted by the parent or guardian.

Do I need a printed copy of my eTA?

Yes. We strongly recommend carrying a printed copy of your approved eTA with your passport when travelling.

Will Melodica assist me with the visa application?

Absolutely. Once you confirm your safari booking with us, our team will guide you through the eTA process and provide the documents you’ll need to submit, such as your itinerary and accommodation confirmations.

Travel Smoothly with Melodica Africa Tours & Safaris

Your journey to Kenya starts with a simple step: getting your eTA approved. With the process now fully digital, travellers can enjoy a faster, easier entry experience without embassy appointments or paperwork delays.

At Melodica Africa Tours & Safaris, we go beyond wildlife, making sure every part of your journey, including the paperwork, is stress-free. Whether it’s securing your Kenya Visa, choosing the right safari route, or preparing your packing list, we’re here to support you.

Let us handle the details, so you can focus on what matters most, living the safari dream. Contact us now and start your Kenya safari with confidence.