Electronic Travel Authorization Replaces VISA Requirements for Travel to Kenya

This alert brings to your attention the changes introduced for persons seeking to travel to Kenya. Effective 5 January 2024, Kenya abolished the VISA requirements for foreigners seeking to travel to Kenya. In its place, Kenya has introduced an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) requirement.

Foreign nationals travelling to Kenya, are required to obtain entry authorization through the ETA system. The ETA is an online system that allows for identification of travellers in advance to determine their eligibility to travel to Kenya.  

Exemptions from the ETA requirement include:

a) East African Community nationals;
b) Individuals holding valid work permits, permanent residence certificates, or special passes; and
c) Travelers transiting through Kenya. 

As part of the application process, applicants are required to provide:

a) Valid passport for at least six (6) months after their planned date of arrival into Kenya with at least one blank page;
b) Self-portraits or passport-type photo;
c) Contact information (Email address and phone number);
d) Details of arrival and departure itinerary;
e) Accommodation booking confirmation(s);
f) Invitation Letter (for official meetings); and
g) Details of credit card, debit card, or other means of payment.

An applicant is required to pay a non-refundable processing fee of USD 30.

Approval of an ETA application is expected to take between two to three days.

The ETA is expected to streamline and simplify the process for persons seeking to travel to Kenya. For persons travelling for business, it is important to have an invitation letter and a copy of the company registration certificate for the Kenyan company on whose invitation the foreigner is travelling.

While the approval timelines are set to be within two to three working days, it is prudent for a person seeking to travel to Kenya to make an application for an ETA upon confirmation of the intended travel plan to allow ample time for processing. It is important to note that approval of an ETA application does not guarantee entry into Kenya. Upon arrival, entry shall be granted subject to further review by the immigration authorities.

If you would like to find out more about how this affects you or should you have any inquiries, we encourage you to reach us through