Visitors intending to reach the official website should visit kaa.go.ke
If you’re traveling to Kenya — whether for tourism, business, medical, or family visits — understanding the Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) process is essential before your arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi.
As of January 2024, Kenya replaced its traditional visa and visa-on-arrival systems with a modern, fully digital eTA platform. This guide explains everything you need to know: what the eTA is, who needs one, who is exempt, how to apply, required documents, and what to expect when you land at JKIA.
1. What Is the Kenya eTA?
The Republic of Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) is a semi-automated online system developed and operated by the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, State Department for Immigration, through the Directorate of Immigration Services.
The system determines a traveller’s eligibility to enter Kenya before departure. It collects basic biographic data and short eligibility questions from applicants, allowing the government to pre-screen visitors before arrival.
An eTA is official permission to travel, authorised by the Government of the Republic of Kenya. However, it is not the final authority to enter the country. Admissibility is determined by immigration officers at the point of entry (such as JKIA).
2. How the eTA System Works
The eTA platform simplifies pre-arrival clearance by replacing traditional visa applications with a quick online form. It helps Kenya streamline entry, strengthen border security, and enhance the travel experience.
- Platform: https://www.etakenya.go.ke
- Processing Time: Usually within 3 working days
- Urgent Processing: Available for expedited cases
- Recommended Submission: At least two weeks before travel to ensure sufficient processing time
The eTA is linked electronically to your passport — no physical sticker or stamp is issued before arrival.
3. Who Must Apply for a Kenya eTA
Every visitor to Kenya must apply for an eTA before travel, except those who fall under the official exemption categories.
This includes:
- Tourists, business travelers, students, and family visitors
- Transit passengers leaving the airport precincts
- Returning residents without valid re-entry passes
Children and infants must each have an individual eTA.
4. Who Is Exempt from Applying for a Kenya eTA
Under the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration (Amendment) Rules, 2025, the following persons are exempt from the eTA requirement:
A. Kenya Residents and Authorized Holders
- Holders of Kenya Permanent Residence, valid Work Permits, or Passes
- Persons with passports endorsed with valid Kenya re-entry passes or written authority in lieu
B. Citizens of East African Partner States (Up to 180 Days)
Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda.
C. Nationals of the Following Countries (Up to 90 Days)
Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Brunei, Cyprus, Dominica, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Fiji Island, Gambia, Ghana, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Kiribati, Lesotho, Malaysia, Maldives, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Union of Comoros, Samoa, San Marino, Sierra Leone, Singapore, South Africa, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, The Bahamas, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Republic of Congo, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
D. Nationals of the Following African Countries (Up to 60 Days)
Algeria, Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, Djibouti, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Madagascar, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Niger, Nigeria, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal, Seychelles, Sudan, Togo, and Tunisia.
E. Special Transit and Crew Exemptions
- Transit passengers arriving and departing on the same aircraft or transferring without leaving airport precincts
- Ship passengers arriving and departing on the same vessel without disembarking
- Crew members of ships, aircraft, trains, or vehicles listed on official manifests continuing outbound
- Owners of private aircraft stopping only for refueling who do not leave the airport area
F. Holders of International Laissez-Passers and Diplomatic Privileges
Includes holders of laissez-passers or travel documents from:
United Nations, African Union, African Development Bank, Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa, COMESA, IGAD, IMF, World Bank, ILO, Afreximbank, PTA/COMESA Bank, ELCI, URTNA, AHF, ARC, CIP, and others traveling on official duty.
Also exempt are:
- Holders of Diplomatic and Service Passports from specific countries such as Iran, Turkey, Brazil, India, and China (for short stays as defined by bilateral agreements)
- Serving members of the British Military
5. eTA Application: Step-by-Step Guide
Where to Apply
Visit the official portal: https://www.etakenya.go.ke
Application Steps
- Create an Account: Register with a valid email and password.
- Complete the Online Form: Enter personal details, passport info, travel itinerary, and accommodation.
- Upload Required Documents: (See next section)
- Pay the eTA Fee: Currently USD 30, payable online by debit or credit card.
- Submit the Application: Wait for a confirmation email.
Once approved, a PDF authorization will be sent to your email. Print or store it digitally to present at airline check-in and JKIA immigration.
6. Required Documents
Before starting your application, ensure you have the following:
Essential Documents:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity, with at least one blank page)
- Passport-type photo or clear selfie
- Contact details (email, phone number)
- Travel itinerary (arrival and departure details)
- Accommodation booking or host contact information
- Payment method (credit/debit card)
Additional Documents Depending on Travel Purpose:
| Purpose of Travel | Additional Documents |
|---|---|
| Medical | Referral letter from the hospital |
| Conference/Meetings | Invitation or participation letter |
| Employment | Employment contract or assignment letter |
| Resettlement | Official supporting documents |
| Business | Invitation letter from the company and company registration copy |
| Family Visit | Invitation letter from host + host’s ID/passport/alien card/entry permit |
| Diplomatic | Diplomatic or Service passport + official letter from government/organization |
Applicants from Yellow Fever endemic countries should also upload vaccination certificates or health test results as required.
7. eTA Processing Time and Validity
- Standard Processing: Up to 3 working days (may take longer during peak periods)
- Urgent Processing: Available for expedited applications
- Recommended: Apply two weeks before travel for safety
- Validity: Single-entry authorization valid for 90 days from approval date
- Length of Stay: Up to 90 days per visit
- Extension: May be extended once (for another 90 days) through the Directorate of Immigration Services in Nairobi or Mombasa
Common Reasons for eTA Rejection
Most eTA applications are approved quickly, but rejections can occur due to:
- Incorrect or mismatched passport details
- Poor-quality or missing photo/selfie
- Invalid or incomplete accommodation proof
- Attempting to enter for work or residency (requires a work permit)
- Submitting via unofficial or fraudulent websites
If rejected, you can reapply immediately with corrected information.
Data Privacy and Security
The Kenya eTA platform complies with the Kenya Data Protection Act (2019).
Your information is used only for border and immigration screening. The government warns travelers to use only the official website and not share personal details with third-party “agents” offering faster processing.
8. Cost and Payment
- Fee: USD 30 per person
- Payment Options: Credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard)
- Refunds: Not available once processing begins
- Only use the official eTA Kenya website — avoid third-party “agent” websites to prevent fraud.
9. Checking eTA Status
Log into your eTA account at etakenya.go.ke to monitor your application progress.
Possible statuses:
- Pending: Application under review
- Approved: Authorization granted — download your eTA
- Rejected: Application denied (reason provided; you may reapply)
If you lose your confirmation, simply log back in to retrieve it.
10. What to Expect on Arrival at JKIA
When you land at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO):
- Proceed to Immigration Counters marked “eTA Holders”.
- Present your passport and eTA confirmation printout (digital copy acceptable).
- Officers will verify details and may ask brief questions about your visit.
- If admissible, you’ll receive a 90-day entry stamp.
- Baggage claim and customs follow immediately afterward.
Important: Possession of an eTA does not guarantee entry. Final admission is at the discretion of immigration officers.
11. eTA for Transit Travellers
If you’re transiting through Nairobi’s JKIA and remaining within the airport precincts, you do not need an eTA.
If you plan to leave the terminal (even for a few hours or an overnight stay), you must apply for and obtain an approved eTA before your journey.
12. Common Questions and Issues
1. How long does approval take?
Most applications are processed within 72 hours, though applying two weeks ahead is recommended.
2. Do children need separate eTAs?
Yes. Every traveler, regardless of age, must have an individual authorization.
3. Can I get an eTA on arrival?
No. Applications must be approved before boarding your flight.
4. Can I extend my eTA stay?
Yes, once, for 90 additional days through Immigration Services offices in Kenya.
5. What if my eTA is rejected?
Check the reason provided on your dashboard, correct errors, and reapply.
6. How can I check my application status?
Log into your account on etakenya.go.ke using your credentials.
13. Security and Privacy
The Kenya eTA system is administered by the Directorate of Immigration Services and complies with the Kenya Data Protection Act (2019). Personal data is securely stored and used only for immigration purposes.
14. Contact Information
For help with eTA issues or arrivals at JKIA:
- Official Website: www.etakenya.go.ke
- Email: etakenya@ecitizen.go.ke
- Immigration Hotline (Nairobi): WhatsApp at +254 110 922 064 or call +254 717 436 070
- JKIA Immigration Office: Open 24/7 at Terminal 1A Arrivals Hall
15. Final Thoughts
Kenya’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) system represents a new era of seamless digital travel. It makes the entry process more efficient, improves security, and simplifies pre-departure planning for travelers from around the world.
If you’re flying into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), ensure you have an approved eTA before boarding. Apply early, upload accurate documents, and carry your eTA confirmation with you.
With your travel authorization ready, you’ll enjoy a smooth, fast, and stress-free arrival — the perfect start to your Kenyan adventure.
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