Kenya Visa Types
Usually, planning an international trip to Kenya takes a lot of effort and time. Besides booking accommodation and flight tickets, deciding on the type of entry permit and applying for it requires proper planning. Kenya has various visa and entry permit types to provide a hassle-free travel experience for all types of travellers. Travellers must first understand the Kenya visa types and their requirements because the eligibility and visa requirements differ for each Kenya visa type. It also helps to comply with the visa regulations.
Deciding the correct Kenya visa type is crucial. The Kenya visa types are categorised based on the travel purpose and most travellers need a suitable and valid Kenya visa to explore the country. Based on citizenship and travel purposes, travellers can select an appropriate Kenya visa type for their trip.
Kenya eTA Overview
Kenya introduced their electronic travel authorization (eTA) system in 2024, it eased the entry requirements for travellers visiting Kenya. Travellers can apply for Kenya eTA from their homes through a digital portal without visiting the embassy or consulate. The Kenya eTA system simplified the process of acquiring a Kenya travel permit by facilitating an online process. While checking the Kenya eTA requirement, also look at the exempt conditions because certain travellers are exempt from applying for Kenya eTA.
Kenya eTA is the current entry permit system and it is open for most international travellers. It authorizes travellers to explore Kenya for various travel purposes. The streamlined application and fast processing facility are major advantages for travellers.
Kenya Visa Types
The Kenya eTA and its types allow travellers to use it for numerous travel reasons. The application process might be similar for each Kenya visa type, but the eligibility criteria and eTA requirements differ for each visa type. Despite the travel purpose, Kenya eTA can only be used for brief stays. Understanding the Kenya eTA types is important for making a wise decision.
Kenya Tourist eTA
Travellers entering Kenya to explore the country’s culture and wildlife can choose the Kenya Tourist eTA. It permits leisure and tourism activities such as sightseeing, wildlife safari, beach vacations and adventure activities. The stay duration permitted under Kenya tourist eTA is 90 days. Travellers need a passport, travel itinerary, return ticket and accommodation proof for the Kenya tourist eTA application process.
Kenya Business eTA
The business eTA is for travellers who wish to engage in business activities in Kenya. Kenya offers numerous business opportunities and travellers entering Kenya for business negotiations and activities can get a Kenya Business eTA. Travellers can engage in business meetings, workshops and conferences with a stay duration of 90 days. Business-related documents such as agreements, proposals and invitation letters are mandatory for the Kenya business eTA application process.
Kenya transit eTA
Kenya Transit eTA is a mandatory travel permit for travellers who are planning to exit the airport transit area during their layover time. It must be obtained before that traveller’s arrival date. Travellers who are staying within the airport premises during their layover time do not require a Kenya transit eTA. Travellers can explore Kenya for 72 hours with Kenya transit eTA. The requirements includean onward flight ticket and passport.
Travellers visiting their friends or family members in Kenya can also apply for Kenya eTA by providing an invitation letter from the host who is residing in Kenya. However, travellers must also be aware of the restricted travel activities under each Kenya eTA type. Business travellers cannot take part in employment activities (paid or unpaid) with Kenya business eTA. Kenya transit eTA is valid only for sightseeing activities, so eTA holders must not engage in employment or business activities. Travellers are advised to understand the eTA requirements before their travel.
Kenya eTA Validity
Kenya eTA is a short-term entry permit with a 90 day validity period. It is a single-entry eTA, and travellers can use it only for a single time. After exiting Kenya, travellers must apply for a new Kenya eTA if they plan to re-enter the country. Every traveller who is eligible for Kenya eTA (including minors) must get their own travel permit to enter Kenya before their arrival. Travellers do not need a Kenya eTA if they meet the Kenya eTA exempt conditions.
Kenya eTA Entry Requirements
Travellers can choose a suitable Kenya eTA for their trip, but upon their entry, they need a valid passport and Kenya eTA. Every traveller must comply with the immigration check, where they must present their travel documents, passport and approved Kenya eTA to the officials. An approved Kenya eTA does not assure travellers entry into Kenya, the decision will be made by the officers at the entry port, so it is essential to comply with the entry requirements.
It is mandatory to have a Kenya eTA before starting the journey. Carry a physical copy of the approved Kenya eTA with all the essential travel documents to ensure a smooth entry process.
Kenya eTA Processing Time
Three to four business days is the standard processing time of Kenya eTA. The fast-processing facility makes it more accessible for travellers. The standard processing time might vary due to numerous factors. Kenya eTA also offers expedited processing for urgent travel needs. Applying early or four to five days before the travel date will provide enough time for the application process and travellers can get their eTA before starting their journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to get a Kenya eTA?
It is an online process and travellers will need certain documents to complete their Kenya eTA process. Visit the Kenya eTA website, click the application form or Apply Now tab and enter the details. Upload the documents (passport copy and recent colour photo) and check the details. Pay the eTA application fee and submit the documents and form.
Can I apply for an extension with Kenya eTA?
Kenya eTA holders can apply for an extension only if they meet the extension criteria. Travellers should visit the immigration office for the Kenya eTA extension process and they must finish the extension process before the validity of their current Kenya eTA.
Can I get a Kenya visa after arriving at any of Kenya’s airports?
Travellers cannot get a Kenya visa at the airport (visa-on-arrival). Kenya is not issuing visa-on-arrival, all travellers get a separate Kenya eTA before their travel.
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Courtesy Visa for Kenya is issued to service, official and diplomatic passport holders with an official letter from the applicant’s organization or home country. Learn more at Courtesy Visa Kenya.