Kenya is a beautiful country in East Africa, known for its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich culture. If you are planning to visit Kenya, you might be wondering how to obtain a visa to enter the country. Well, the good news is that starting from January 2024, Kenya will be a visa-free country for all global visitors¹. This means that you will no longer need to apply for a visa in advance or pay any fees to enter Kenya. However, you will still need to obtain an electronic travel authorization (ETA) before your arrival. In this blog post, we will explain how to get an ETA and what you need to know before traveling to Kenya.
What is an ETA and how to get it?
An ETA is a digital document that confirms your identity and eligibility to travel to Kenya. It is similar to an eVisa, but it does not require any payment or approval. You can apply for an ETA online through the official website of the Republic of Kenya Electronic Visa System. To apply for an ETA, you will need to:
- Create an account with a username and password
- Select the Department of Immigration Services
- Select Submit Application
- Select Kenyan Visa
- Select the type of visa (Single entry, Transit, or Courtesy)
- Fill in the application form with your personal and travel details
- Upload a recent color photo taken in the last six months
- Submit your application and download your ETA
You should apply for an ETA at least seven days before your departure date. You will receive a confirmation email with your ETA number and a QR code. You will need to print out your ETA and present it along with your passport at the immigration checkpoint upon arrival in Kenya.
What are the requirements and restrictions for traveling to Kenya?
To travel to Kenya, you will need to meet the following requirements:
- Have a valid passport with at least six months of validity and two blank pages
- Have a return or onward ticket
- Have proof of accommodation or invitation letter
- Have proof of yellow fever vaccination if you are coming from or transiting through a country with risk of yellow fever transmission
- Have a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours before departure
- Fill in the online health declaration form and obtain a QR code
- Follow the health and safety protocols in Kenya, such as wearing a mask, social distancing, and temperature screening
You should also be aware of the following restrictions:
- Your ETA is valid for 90 days from the date of issue and allows you to stay in Kenya for up to 90 days
- You can only use your ETA for tourism, business, or transit purposes
- You cannot extend, change, or cancel your ETA once issued
- You cannot work, study, or engage in any illegal activities with your ETA
- You are responsible for any consequences arising from your travel to Kenya
Why visit Kenya?
Kenya is a wonderful destination for travelers who love nature, adventure, and culture. Here are some of the reasons why you should visit Kenya:
- You can witness the amazing wildlife and scenery of the Masai Mara National Reserve, home to the famous wildebeest migration and the Big Five animals
- You can explore the diverse and colorful coral reefs and marine life of the Indian Ocean along the Kenyan coast
- You can climb the majestic Mount Kenya, the second-highest peak in Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- You can experience the vibrant and cosmopolitan city of Nairobi, the capital and largest city of Kenya
- You can learn about the rich and diverse culture and history of Kenya, from the ancient civilizations of the Swahili Coast to the modern achievements of the Kenyan people
Conclusion
Kenya is a visa-free country for all global visitors from January 2024, making it easier and cheaper to travel to this amazing country. However, you will still need to obtain an electronic travel authorization (ETA) before your arrival, as well as meet the other requirements and restrictions for traveling to Kenya. We hope this blog post has helped you understand how to get an ETA and what to expect when traveling to Kenya. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. Happy travels!