Kenya eTA online for US citizens

Since January 2024, US citizens are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before traveling to Kenya. Whether you're planning a vacation, a business trip, or visiting family, this mandatory authorization replaces the traditional visa and must be requested online before departure. The process is simple but requires submitting the correct documents, paying the eTA fee, and complying with entry conditions. To ensure a smooth journey and avoid delays at the border, it's important to understand how the system works — including timelines, document requirements, and length of stay — when applying for a Kenya eTA for US citizens.

Kenya visa requirements for us citizens

• US citizens must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before entering Kenya.
• Applications are submitted online via the official Kenyan eVisa platform.
• The process involves completing a form, uploading documents, paying a fee, and waiting for approval.
• Several types of eTA are available, including for tourism and business purposes.
• The eTA is typically valid for a single entry and a stay of up to 90 days.

→ Kenya eTA for US citizens ←

Kenya eTA for US citizens: Do you need one?

US citizens are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Kenya, whether for tourism, business, or other short-term reasons. Since 2024, Kenya no longer issues traditional visas for most nationalities, including Americans. Instead, all travelers must apply for a Kenya eTA before departure, using the official online platform. This digital process eliminates the need to visit an embassy or consulate and makes travel planning more convenient.

The Kenya eTA for US citizens allows a stay of up to 90 days, making it ideal for vacations, family visits, or business meetings. To receive approval, travelers must meet specific requirements, including submitting valid documents and paying the appropriate fee online.

How to apply for a Kenya eTA from the US?

Applying for a Kenya eTA for US citizens is a quick and fully online process. Since January 2024, the traditional visa has been replaced by an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), which must be obtained before traveling. US citizens can complete their application via the official Kenyan eTA website or through an authorized service provider. Here are the steps to follow:

• Access the official eTA platform: Begin by visiting the official Kenya eTA website or a trusted intermediary platform. You will be asked to complete a digital form with personal details, travel information, and passport data.
• Complete the application form: Provide accurate information, including your full name, address, passport number, and the planned dates of your trip to Kenya.
• Upload the required documents: You’ll need to submit a valid passport (with at least six months' validity from your arrival date), a recent passport-sized photo, and possibly a letter of invitation if traveling for business.
• Pay the eTA fee: Payment is made online via credit card or other secure payment methods. The cost depends on the type of travel and processing time selected.
• Receive your Kenya eTA by email: Once approved, your eTA will be sent to you electronically. Be sure to print it and keep it with your travel documents.
• Double-check your eTA before departure: Verify that all the details are correct and ensure your passport is in order before boarding your flight.

The Kenya eTA application for US citizens is generally processed within a few business days, but it’s recommended to apply at least a week before your departure in case of delays.

Kenya eTA requirements for American travelers

To apply for a Kenya eTA, US citizens must prepare and submit the following documents during the online application process:

• Valid passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from the intended date of entry into Kenya.
• Recent passport photo: A clear, color photo that meets international standards for travel documents.
• Completed online application form: All information must be accurate and match your passport details.
• Proof of travel: A round-trip air ticket or travel itinerary is often required to confirm your exit plans.
• Proof of sufficient funds (if requested): In some cases, you may be asked to demonstrate financial means to support your stay.
• Letter of invitation (if applicable): For business travelers, an official invitation from a Kenyan organization or company may be necessary.

These are the standard Kenya eTA requirements for US citizens, and having them ready in advance will help ensure a smooth and fast approval process.

What is the Kenya eTA price for US citizens?

As of 2024, the official Kenya eTA for US citizens costs 32.50 USD. This fee is paid online during the application process on the official eTA platform. It covers a single entry for a stay of up to 90 days, whether for tourism, business, or family visits.

Note: Additional service fees may apply when using a professional platform to assist with the application process. These services offer support, faster form completion, and help ensure that your application meets all requirements without errors.

To simplify the process and avoid delays, many travelers choose to apply through a dedicated platform that handles the procedure efficiently from start to finish.

Kenya eTA processing times for US citizens

The application process for the Kenya eTA for US citizens is fully online and typically takes between 2 and 3 business days after submission. However, depending on the time of year and application volume, processing can extend to up to 7 business days in some cases.

To avoid delays, it's recommended to apply at least one week before your departure. During peak travel seasons — such as holidays or major events — processing times may be slightly longer.

If you need to travel urgently, some service providers offer expedited processing for an additional fee, reducing approval time to as little as 24 to 48 hours.

• Once your application is approved, your Kenya eTA will be sent by email. You must print the document and carry it with you to present it upon arrival in Kenya.
• Don’t forget to check your email (including your spam folder) regularly for updates or additional requests from the eTA system.

In short, the Kenya eTA process for US citizens is fast and efficient, but applying early is the best way to ensure a stress-free departure.

Kenya eTA validity and length of stay for US citizens

When planning your trip, it's essential to understand the validity and conditions of the Kenya eTA for US citizens. This travel authorization is designed for short-term stays and must be obtained before entering the country.

How many entries does the Kenya eTA allow?

The standard Kenya eTA is issued as a single-entry travel authorization, meaning:

• You are allowed to enter once within the validity period.
• If you leave Kenya during your trip (for example, to visit a neighboring country), you'll need to apply for a new eTA to return.
• The eTA is ideal for travelers staying in Kenya without exiting the territory during their stay.

Kenya no longer offers visa-on-arrival or multiple-entry visas under the new eTA system. Only the single-entry eTA is available for most travelers, including US citizens.

How long can US citizens stay in Kenya with an eTA?

The Kenya eTA for US citizens allows a stay of up to 90 consecutive days from the date of entry. This applies whether you’re visiting for:

• Tourism
• Visiting family or friends
• Business meetings or short-term professional visits

It is not intended for long-term stays, work, or relocation.

If your travel purpose changes or you plan to stay longer, you must apply for a different type of permit through Kenyan immigration services.

Can the Kenya eTA be extended?

In most cases, the Kenya eTA cannot be renewed or extended beyond 90 days. If you wish to remain in the country longer:

• You must leave Kenya before your eTA expires.
• You can then reapply for a new eTA from outside the country.
• For long stays, business relocation, or special purposes, you may need to apply for a residence permit or special entry authorization via Kenya’s immigration department.

It is recommended to plan your stay carefully and not overstay your eTA, as this may lead to penalties or future entry restrictions.

Kenya eTA rejected for US citizens

Although Kenya is a friendly and popular destination for US travelers, it is still possible for an eTA application to be rejected. Understanding the common reasons for refusal can help you avoid mistakes and ensure your travel plans go smoothly.

Here are the main reasons why a Kenya eTA for US citizens might be denied:

• Incomplete or incorrect documentation: Missing documents, blurry passport photos, or inaccurate information on the application form can lead to rejection.
• Previous immigration violations: If you have previously overstayed a Kenyan visa or eTA, or violated entry conditions, your application may be flagged.
• Health or security concerns: In rare cases, applications may be denied due to public health risks (such as certain contagious diseases) or specific security/diplomatic concerns.

If your Kenya eTA is rejected, you may receive instructions on how to correct your application or appeal the decision. However, appeals are rare and the process can be time-consuming. For that reason, it’s crucial to double-check all documents and information before submitting your application.

Is Kenya safe for US citizens?

Kenya is a popular country for tourists, including US citizens, thanks to its beautiful scenery, diverse wildlife and historic sites. However, as with any trip abroad, safety is an important consideration. The US government regularly updates travel advice for US citizens visiting foreign countries, including Kenya.

Kenya features popular tourist areas, such as the Masai Mara National Reserve and the beaches of Mombasa, which are generally safe for visitors. However, some parts of the country, particularly those close to the border with Somalia or in the north-east, may be less safe due to political tensions or the risk of violence.

Before leaving, it is advisable to consult the latest travel alerts issued by the U.S. Department of State, and to take precautionary measures, such as :

• Enrolling in the STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) to receive security information.
• Follow local recommendations and safety advice from Kenyan authorities.
• Be vigilant and avoid high-risk areas or crowds.

In general, if you respect the safety recommendations and stay within the well-established tourist areas, your trip to Kenya is likely to be safe and enjoyable.