Kenya eTA for UK Citizens

The electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system streamlines the process for UK citizens planning to visit Kenya. This digital platform simplifies obtaining the necessary travel documentation. Applicants from the United Kingdom must have a valid passport and additional documents ready. The application involves completing an online form, submitting a fee, and receiving the travel authorisation via email within a few days. This authorisation permits a single entry into Kenya and is typically valid for up to 90 days.

This eTA facility allows British travellers to explore Kenya, catering to various purposes such as tourism, business, or medical visits. The online visa process represents a significant improvement over traditional application methods. It eliminates the need to physically visit an embassy or consulate, allowing the entire process to be handled efficiently using a computer or mobile device.

Types of eTAs Kenya Issues to British Passport Holders

The Kenyan government has established various electronic travel authorisations (eTAs) to cater to diverse categories of visitors from the United Kingdom. These are:

Tourist ETA: This is intended for travellers visiting Kenya for leisure activities such as exploring the country's natural beauty or immersing in its cultural heritage. It facilitates smooth travel across Kenya for leisure seekers.
Business, Conference, or Meeting eTA: Aimed at individuals visiting Kenya for professional engagements, such as participating in business meetings or conferences. This eTA streamlines entry for those engaging in professional activities within Kenya.
Family or Friends Visit eTA: Designed for individuals visiting relatives or friends in Kenya. It simplifies entering the country for those whose primary purpose is family reunions or social visits.
Diplomatic Travel eTA: Tailored for government or diplomatic representatives travelling to Kenya on official missions. It ensures hassle-free entry, which is crucial for their diplomatic or governmental duties.

Thus, the type of Kenya eTA required is contingent upon the specific nature of your visit to Kenya, with each category specifically structured to facilitate ease of travel corresponding to the visit's purpose.

Documents to be Submitted by UK Nationals to Obtain a Kenya eTA

For a smooth and efficient process of obtaining your Kenya electronic travel authorisation (eTA) online, it's important to gather critical documents beforehand. Here's a straightforward checklist to help you prepare:

A Current Passport: Make sure your passport remains valid for at least six months beyond your intended entry date into Kenya, a common requirement for international travel.
A Recent Passport Photograph: You must upload a photo that meets passport standards. The eTA system offers guidance to ensure your photo meets the necessary specifications.
Details of Your Journey: Be prepared to provide detailed information about your visit, such as your flight numbers and activities planned in Kenya.
Accommodation Confirmation: Have proof of your accommodation in Kenya, like a hotel reservation. Ensure the dates on this proof align with those on your eTA application.

Getting these documents ready in advance will streamline your application for the Kenya eTA, allowing you to anticipate your Kenyan adventure with ease and peace of mind.

How Can a British Citizen Apply for an eTA to Kenya?

To apply for a Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), follow this streamlined process:

Nationality Selection: On the application webpage, locate and select your nationality from the 'Nationality' dropdown menu.
Choosing eTA Category: Access the Kenya eTA application form for Kenya and select the appropriate eTA category that aligns with the nature of your visit.
Inputting Personal Data: Accurately input your name details (first, middle [if applicable], and last names) exactly as shown in your passport.
Contact Information Provision: Provide a current email address and telephone number for receiving crucial updates regarding your application.
Date of Birth Entry: Input your date of birth using the format Day-Month-Year (DD-MM-YYYY).
Gender Specification: From the available options, select your gender (Male, Female, or Other).
Travel Details Submission: Indicate your planned arrival date in Kenya using the Day-Month-Year (DD-MM-YYYY) format.
Passport Information Input: Enter details from your passport, including the passport number and its issue and expiration dates, following the Day-Month-Year (DD-MM-YYYY) format.
Processing Time Selection: Choose the desired processing time frame for your eTA, typically ranging from 3 to 5 working days.
CAPTCHA Completion: Accurately enter the CAPTCHA code displayed on your screen into the designated field.
Finalising and Uploading Documents: Confirm that you have comprehended all instructions and possess all necessary documents in PDF format and a photograph in JPG/JPEG format, then upload them as instructed.
Application Review and Submission: Carefully review all entered information for accuracy, then submit your application by clicking the ‘submit’ button.
Post-Submission Process: Upon submitting, you will receive a confirmation email. It is essential to regularly check your email for any further instructions or updates on your eTA status.

What is the Validity of a Kenyan eTA for UK Passport Holders?

The eTA you obtained for Kenya remains valid for ninety days from the date it is issued. Once granted, your permitted stay in Kenya is limited to a maximum of ninety days.

Is There a Way British Citizens Can Apply for an Urgent Kenya eTA?

For British nationals needing swift travel to Kenya, an expedited electronic travel authorisation (eTA) is available. This accelerated process involves an additional fee but ensures faster processing. While the standard eTA for Kenya is usually processed in approximately three days, the expedited service significantly reduces this timeframe, allowing applicants to obtain their eTA within one to two days following their application submission.

Which British Citizens Are Exempted from Obtaining a Kenya eTA?

Specific individuals holding a British passport may be exempt from requiring a Kenya eTA to travel to Kenya. This exemption typically applies to the following categories:

Permanent residents of Kenya or those holding work permits for the country.
Diplomatic personnel and employees of international organizations stationed in Kenya.
Transit passengers who remain within the airport's international zone during a layover in Kenya without exiting the airport, whether staying on the same flight or transferring to another flight.
Individuals who are part of a ship's crew remain on board while the boat is in Kenyan territorial waters.
Crew members of various modes of transport, such as ships, aeroplanes, trains, etc., provided they are included on the official crew list and are merely transiting through Kenya.
Private pilots stop in Kenya exclusively for refuelling purposes under the condition that they remain within the confines of the airport.

What is the Cost of Kenya eTA for UK Citizens?

The pricing of a Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) varies based on the processing speed you select. Options include standard (the least rapid), urgent, and supercritical (the quickest). The cost for each category begins at a set base rate in US dollars, and to this, additional processing fees are added.

Since these fees are subject to frequent adjustments, we've developed a specialised tool to help you ascertain the latest Kenya eTA application charges. This tool allows you to access up-to-date and precise fee information, facilitating a more transparent and efficient travel planning process.

How Much Time Does It Take to Process a Kenya eTA for British Nationals?

Obtaining a Kenya eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) for a British national is generally a swift procedure. The standard timeframe for processing such applications is around three days. Nevertheless, there are occasions where this duration may be extended due to unforeseen complications.

When expedited processing is necessary, British travellers can receive their eTA within a shorter period, typically between 24 to 48 hours, by opting for a fast-track service at an additional cost.

How Can I Extend My Kenya eTA With a British Passport?

When possessing an electronic travel authorisation (eTA) for Kenya, it's important to note that extending this document beyond its expiration date is not possible. Additionally, if you depart from Kenya before the expiration of your eTA, the same authorisation cannot be reused for subsequent entries.

Is eTA to Kenya Available in “On Arrival” Mode for British Citizens?

For travellers originating from England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland (The United Kingdom) and heading to Kenya, it is essential to note that the option to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is not available upon arrival.

Kenya eTA in Focus: An Insight into its Official Visual Traits

Gaining insight into the distinctive visual elements that define the official appearance of Kenya's electronic travel authorization, ensuring authenticity and effortless recognition.

FAQs

An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is a digital travel permit required for UK citizens to enter Kenya. It's an online system that streamlines the visa application process, making it more efficient and accessible. The eTA allows UK travellers to enter Kenya for tourism, business, or transit purposes without a traditional visa.

UK nationals must provide several essential documents for a Kenya eTA application. These include a valid British passport, proof of onward travel or return ticket, and accommodation details in Kenya. Additional requirements may include a recent passport-sized photograph, proof of sufficient funds for the stay, and travel itinerary details.

The Kenyan eTA for UK passport holders is typically valid for 90 days from the issue date, allowing multiple entries into Kenya. Each stay must be within the stipulated period, usually 90 days per visit. It's important to note that the eTA is strictly for tourism, business, or transit purposes and does not permit employment or long-term residency in Kenya.

British citizens can apply for an urgent Kenya eTA if they require expedited processing due to immediate travel needs. The applicant must complete the standard eTA application form and choose the urgent processing option. This service incurs an additional fee, and the processing time is significantly shorter than the regular application.

The cost of a Kenya eTA for UK citizens varies, with the standard fee being moderate and additional charges for urgent or expedited processing. Processing times for a regular eTA application typically take a few days, while expedited applications are often processed within 24 hours.

Specific categories of UK citizens may be exempt from obtaining a Kenya eTA. This exemption usually applies to diplomatic or official passport holders travelling on government business. Children under a certain age travelling with their parents may also be exempt. It's advisable to check the latest guidelines for specific exemption criteria.