The Kenyan government has recently updated its protocols for travellers seeking entry into the country. In the past, the standard procedure necessitated obtaining an e-visa before one arrived in Kenya. However, this system has undergone a significant modification. The e-visa has been substituted with a new requirement known as the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Despite the change in terminology and process, it remains imperative for visitors to secure this authorisation before they enter Kenya.

A comprehensive and user-friendly guide has been developed to assist travellers in navigating this new requirement. This guide is meticulously designed to simplify the process, presenting it in a clear, step-by-step format. It's important to note that the guide addresses explicitly obtaining a Single Entry authorisation. This resource aims to streamline the application procedure, making it more accessible and less daunting for individuals visiting Kenya.

What is Needed to Apply for a Kenya eTA?

To ensure a smooth application process for Kenyan eTA, you should prepare the following essential documents and information:

• Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date you plan to arrive in Kenya. Additionally, ensure at least one blank page is available in your passport for stamping purposes.
• Photographic Identification: You will need a recent photograph of yourself, akin to the style used in passports – a clear, front-facing image with a neutral background.
• Contact Details: Be prepared to provide your current contact information, including a valid email address and a phone number where you can be reached.
• Travel Itinerary: Have details of your travel plans ready, including the dates and times of your arrival in and departure from Kenya. This information helps in verifying the purpose and duration of your stay.
• Accommodation Information: Confirmation of your accommodation bookings is required. This could be hotel reservations or any other lodging planned for your stay in Kenya.
• Means of Payment: Ensure you have a reliable means of payment for your expenses. This could be a credit card, a debit card, or any other accepted payment method you plan to use during your visit.

Are There Any Additional Requirements to Apply for Kenya eTA?

The government has implemented measures for incoming travellers tailored to their specific circumstances and origins to streamline and secure its entry processes. These regulations are designed with a dual focus on security and administrative efficiency.

• Firstly, confident individuals may be obligated to demonstrate financial solvency depending on their nationality and the country they are currently residing in. This requirement is typically fulfilled through the presentation of proof of financial assets. Additionally, these individuals might need to provide evidence of their intention to return to their home country, usually in the form of a confirmed return flight ticket.
• Moreover, the state's health and safety protocols dictate that visitors, contingent again on their citizenship and prior travel history, must present health documentation. This includes yellow fever vaccination certificates and, depending on the situation, certificates for other vaccinations or test results that confirm the absence of certain diseases.
• In the case of travellers coming for business purposes, an added layer of documentation is required. These visitors must present an official invitation letter from the company they are visiting. Alongside this, a document proving the registration of the said company is necessary to validate the visit's business nature.
• The process includes submitting a personal invitation letter from their host for visiting family members. To further authenticate this arrangement, the host must provide a copy of their identification document, such as an identity card or passport.
• Individuals on diplomatic missions face a distinct set of requirements. They are expected to carry a diplomatic passport. They must also present an official letter from the government of their country of origin outlining the nature and purpose of their visit.
• It is essential to highlight that these regulations are part of a regional framework. As such, all member states of the East African Community (EAC) are exempted from the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) requirements, facilitating more effortless movement within the region and strengthening ties among these nations. This exemption reflects the spirit of cooperation and unity that the EAC embodies.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Kenya eTA

Listed below in pointers is the step-by-step process of how you can apply for a Kenya eTA:

Nationality Selection:

• Locate and click on the 'Nationality' dropdown menu.
• Scroll through the list and select your nationality.

Choosing eTA Type:

• Find the 'Kenya eTA application form'
• Click on the dropdown menu to see available eTA types.
• Choose the eTA type that applies to your travel purpose.

Entering Personal Information:

• Name: Enter your first name as it appears on your passport.
• Middle Name: Fill in your middle name if you have one (optional).
• Last Name: Enter your surname or family name.

Contact Information:

• Phone: Provide a valid phone number where you can be reached.
• Email ID: Enter a valid email address. Ensure it's correct, as this will be used for communication regarding your application.

Date of Birth:

• Enter your date of birth in the format DD-MM-YYYY.

Selecting Gender:

• Choose your gender (e.g., Male, Female, or Other) from the options provided.

Travel Information:

• Date of Arrival: Enter the expected arrival date in Kenya using the format DD-MM-YYYY.

Passport Details:

• Passport Number: Enter your passport number exactly as it appears on your passport.
• Passport Issue Date: Provide when your passport was issued (DD-MM-YYYY).
• Passport Expiry Date: Enter the expiration date of your passport (DD-MM-YYYY).

Processing Time Selection:

• Choose the processing time for your eTA application. For example, select 'Normal (Process within 3 - 5 working days)' if that option suits your needs.

Completing the CAPTCHA:

• A CAPTCHA code will be displayed on the screen.
• Carefully enter the text shown in the CAPTCHA image into the provided field.

Final Declarations and Document Uploads:

• Check the box indicating that you have read the instructions and have all required documents (in scanned PDF format) and a photograph (in JPG/JPEG format).
• Upload the necessary documents and photographs per the instructions on the form.

Review and Submit:

• Before submitting, review all the information you have entered for accuracy.
• Click the submit button to complete your application.

Confirmation and Follow-up:

• Once submitted, you should receive a confirmation email at the provided email address.
• Keep an eye on your email for further communication or instructions regarding your eTA application.

What is the Cost of a Kenyan eTA?

The cost for each traveller to obtain an eTA is dependent on the processing charges. This price encompasses the eTA itself and includes various banking and processing charges. This rate pertains to the standard processing service. 

Should you opt for the expedited processing feature, be aware that it incurs an extra fee beyond the average rate. The primary advantage of choosing this expedited service is the assurance that your eTA application will be prioritised and processed more swiftly.

How Can I Check My Kenya eTA Application Status after Submission?

For individuals who have completed the process of submitting their electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) application, there is a straightforward procedure available to monitor the status of their application. Here is a detailed guide to assist you in this process:

• Locating the Document Number: After successfully submitting your application through the online platform, you will be issued a unique "Document Number." This number is critical as it serves as a key identifier for your application. Ensure that you keep this number safe, as you will need it to track the progress of your application.
• Entering the Document Number for Tracking: To begin tracking your application, the first step is to enter this Document Number into the designated tracking section. This number acts as a secure gateway to access the current status of your eTA application.
• Understanding the Application Number: In addition to the Document Number, you will receive an "Application Number." This number serves a different purpose; it is specifically related to your application and is used in official communications regarding your eTA.
• Receiving Timely Updates on Application Progress: Throughout the processing period, you will be kept informed about the progress of your eTA application. Notifications regarding any updates, required actions, or the final decision will be communicated to you. This ensures that you are always in the loop and aware of the current status of your application.

How Much Time Does it Take for a Kenyan eTA to be Processed Successfully?

The duration required to process an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) can differ based on several factors, including the applicant's country of origin and the specific eTA category they seek. Generally, the processing period for an eTA is around three business days. This timeframe is considered the norm for standard applications.

It's important to note that for travellers looking to expedite their eTA processing, there is an option to opt for a premium service. This service facilitates a faster approval process, thereby reducing the waiting time for those needing travel authorisation.

Should I Apply for a Kenya eTA or a Normal Kenyan Visa?

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) presents several advantages for those journeying to Kenya, enhancing the overall travel experience in various ways:

• Enhanced Efficiency: The eTA system streamlines the process of submitting travel documents and information. This digital approach allows travellers to conveniently manage their documentation from any location, removing the need to handle paperwork physically.
• Saves Time at Entry Points: The implementation of the eTA marks a significant shift in the entry process into Kenya. Travellers are no longer required to complete paperwork upon arrival, which effectively reduces the time spent in queues for customs, health, and immigration checks. This expedited process leads to a more streamlined entry experience.
• Streamlining Airline Check-In Procedures: The introduction of the eTA has also transformed the check-in process for airlines operating flights to Kenya. With the eTA, airlines can quickly verify whether a passenger has been authorised to travel by the Kenyan Government. This verification is achieved by checking the possession of an eTA, which simplifies the process for both the airline and the traveller, ensuring a smoother transition through airline procedures.

FAQs

Do I require an eTA for Kenya if my travel involves only a transit stop at the airport? Can I apply for a Kenyan eTA online as a United States citizen? What is the typical processing time for a Kenyan eTA? Could you list the necessary documents for an eTA application to Kenya? I possess a valid eVisa from 2023. Will I still require an eTA for 2024 travel? How quickly can I receive my eTA if I opt for expedited processing? What should I do if my eTA application for Kenya needs to be approved? Can I obtain an eTA upon arrival in Kenya? Once my eTA is approved, are there any specific steps to follow at the airport?