Kenya has signed visa waiver treaties with several countries, allowing their citizens to visit Kenya without a Visa/eTA for short stays. However, foreign passport holders who are not from these countries will need to obtain a Kenya eTA (eliminating the need to visit a Kenyan embassy or consulate in person) or a traditional Visa. Read the information below to check whether your country is eligible for visa-free travel or not.

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Countries with Visa Exemption Entry to Kenya

Currently, Kenya allows visa-free entry for the citizens of many countries. These nationalities are eligible to spend up to 90 days in Kenya without an eTA, while others are limited to a maximum stay of 30 or 60 days.

Although an eTA is not mandatory for them, they must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months upon arrival. However, citizens of Uganda and Rwanda can enter Kenya by simply presenting a valid national ID card.

1. 180 Days Visa-Free Stay

Burundi

Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo)

Rwanda

South Sudan

Tanzania

Uganda

2. 90 Days Visa-Free Stay

3. 60 Days Visa-Free Stay

eTA Requirement for Kenya: Non-Exempt Countries

Travellers who are not eligible for visa-free entry must possess a valid Kenya eTA. The online eTA system allows individuals to obtain a visa for multiple purposes, including tourism, business, transit, or medical visits to Kenya.

Presently, it is mandatory to apply for a Kenyan eTA online in advance of travel, as obtaining a visa upon arrival in Kenya is no longer an option.

Kenya ETA Application Requirements for Non-eTA-Exempt Citizens

To fulfil the online Kenya eTA requirements, you must have the following:

1. A passport that is valid for at least 6 months from the date of your intended arrival, with at least 1 blank page available.
2. A confirmed flight ticket indicating either your return or onward travel plans.
3. Passport-size photograph; recent and clear
4. Evidence of accommodation in Kenya, such as hotel bookings, an invitation letter or any other valid proof
5. Additionally, it is important to provide a current email address to receive the approved eTA. The online payment of the Kenya eTA fee is also required, and you can use a valid credit or debit card authorised for online transactions.

Once these conditions are met, you can fill in the Kenya eTA form online. The process is simple and quick, it only requires most basic information about personal and passport data, plus travel information.

Kenya eTA Application Process

The steps are as follows:

1. Apply: Complete the application form by providing your personal, travel and passport information; upload the documents and submit the form.
2. Pay the Fee: Once the form is submitted, pay the eTA Fee
3. Receive Approved Kenya eTA: Upon receiving the approved eTA via email, remember to print a copy and present it to the border officials upon your arrival in Kenya.

The Kenya eTA permits the holder to stay in the country for a maximum of 90 consecutive days.To ensure a smooth process, it is recommended to submit your Kenya eTA form at least 7 business days prior to your planned entry date. This allows for sufficient processing time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to enter Kenya without an eTA? Does one pay an entrance fee into Kenya when an eTA is not required? Can I work in Kenya if my country is exempt from the eTA?

Content Disclaimer: While this information was last updated in August 2025, we strongly advise that you confirm any travel details with the appropriate governmental organisations, embassies, and airlines.