Kenya eVisa Fees, Costs & Information: Your Ultimate Guide to Hassle-Free Travel

6 min readAug 6, 2024

Are you dreaming of a Kenyan safari or a beach getaway in Mombasa? Well, before you pack your bags and practice your Swahili, let’s talk about the not-so-exciting but absolutely crucial part of your journey the Kenya eVisa. Don’t worry, we’re about to make this process as painless as possible, and dare I say, maybe even a little fun? So, grab a cup of Kenyan coffee (or tea, we don’t judge), and let’s dive into the world of Kenya eVisa fees, costs, and information.

The New Kid on the Block: Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)

Hold onto your hats, folks! As of January 1, 2024, Kenya has bid farewell to the old eVisa system and rolled out the red carpet for the new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). It’s like Kenya decided to upgrade from a flip phone to a smartphone same purpose, but way cooler and more efficient.Here’s what you need to know about the Kenya ETA:

It’s the new cool kid replacing the old eVisa system
You can apply up to 3 months before your trip (procrastinators, we see you)
It costs $34.09 per person (less than a fancy dinner, but way more exciting)
Processing usually takes 3 working days (faster than waiting for your crush to text back)

Remember, this applies to all international travelers, even the tiny humans (yes, your kids need one too). But if you’re a Kenyan citizen or from an East African Community partner state, you can sit this one out lucky you!

Your Kenya ETA Application Checklist: Don’t Leave Home Without It!

Alright, let’s get down to business. Applying for your Kenya ETA is like packing for a trip you don’t want to forget anything important. Here’s your ultimate checklist:

A passport that’s valid for at least six months (and has one blank page it needs some space to breathe)
A recent passport-style photo or a selfie (time to practice your best “I’m going on an adventure” face)
Your email address and phone number (so Kenya can slide into your DMs with updates)
Your travel itinerary (arrival, departure, and where you’ll be living your best life in Kenya)
A credit card, debit card, or Apple Pay to cover the $34.09 fee (cheaper than a night out, but way more exciting)

And for some of you overachievers out there:

A Yellow Fever Certificate if you’re coming from a country where Yellow Fever likes to hang out
Any additional vaccinations based on your travel history (because Kenya cares about your health)

The Kenya ETA Application: A Step-by-Step Guide for the Technologically Challenged

Don’t worry if you’re not a tech wizard applying for your Kenya ETA is easier than trying to fold a fitted sheet. Here’s your step-by-step guide:

Upload your passport info page (it’s like your passport’s headshot)
Take a selfie using your webcam (smile, you’re going to Kenya!)
Fill in your contact details (so Kenya knows where to send the party invites)
Provide your travel details (when you’re arriving, leaving, and where you’ll be staying)
Complete the general information section (it’s like a first date with Kenya)
Make a customs declaration (promise you’re not smuggling in any elephants)
Complete the health declaration (Kenya wants to know you’re fit for all the adventures)
Provide your travel insurance info (because stuff happens, even in paradise)
Upload your accommodation and flight confirmations (prove you’re not just dreaming about this trip)
Add any extra documents if needed (overachievers, this is your time to shine)
Agree to the terms and conditions (pinky promise you’ll be a good visitor)

And voila! You’re done. Now sit back, relax, and wait for Kenya to give you the green light.

The Perks of the Kenya ETA: Because Who Doesn’t Love Convenience?

Now, you might be thinking, “Why bother with all this ETA business?” Well, let me tell you, the Kenya ETA is like the VIP pass of travel documents. Here’s why:

You can apply from the comfort of your couch (pajamas optional but recommended)
No more filling out forms on the plane or at arrival (because who has legible handwriting after a long flight?)
Airlines love it because it makes check-in a breeze (happy airlines = happy travelers)
Shorter queues at the airport (more time for duty-free shopping!)
It’s all digital (saving trees and looking cool at the same time)

Plus, it gives you peace of mind knowing you’ve got the official thumbs up from Kenya before you even pack your bags. It’s like getting a virtual hug from the entire country!

When Things Go Wrong: Dealing with ETA Denial (Don’t Panic!)

Okay, let’s talk about the elephant in the room (pun intended, we are talking about Kenya after all). What if your Kenya ETA application gets denied? First, don’t panic. Second, put down that tub of ice cream. Here’s what to do:

Take a deep breath (or several)
Email support@etakenya.go.ke (they’re like the Kenyan travel fairy godparents)
Explain your situation (use your best “please help me” voice)
Wait for their response (patience is a virtue, especially in travel)

Remember, a denied ETA doesn’t mean you’ll never see a giraffe in real life. It just means you might need to provide more information or clarify something in your application. Think of it as a small detour on your road to Kenyan adventures.

Kenya ETA for the Whole Family: Because Kids Need Visas Too

If you’re planning a family trip to Kenya, listen up! The Kenya ETA isn’t just for grown-ups. Nope, even your little ones need their own ETA. Here’s the scoop:

All foreign visitors, regardless of age, need an ETA
For kids under 18, a parent or guardian needs to fill out the application (sorry kids, no forging signatures here)
Pro tip: Apply as a group to keep all your ETAs together (it’s like herding cats, but digital)

Remember, getting ETAs for the whole family is easier than trying to get everyone to agree on a restaurant. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to teach the kids about travel documents (fun for the whole family, right?).

The Kenya ETA Crystal Ball: What It Can and Can’t Do

Let’s clear up some misconceptions about the Kenya ETA. It’s great, but it’s not magical. Here’s what you need to know:

An ETA gives you permission to travel to Kenya (yay!)
But it doesn’t guarantee entry (boo!)
You still need to present other required documents (passport, boarding pass, etc.)
You might be questioned at departure or arrival (think of it as a pop quiz about your trip)

Basically, the ETA is like an invitation to the party, but the bouncer (aka immigration officer) still gets to decide if you can come in. So make sure all your other travel ducks are in a row!

When Technology Fails: Dealing with Payment Hiccups

In an ideal world, technology always works perfectly. But we live in the real world, where sometimes your payment for the Kenya ETA might not go through. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered:

The system only accepts credit or debit cards (no cash or checks, sorry)
If your payment is declined, wait a few minutes and try again (sometimes the internet just needs a nap)
Make sure you have enough funds (because an empty bank account and travel plans don’t mix)
If all else fails, try a different card (it’s like a game of financial musical chairs)

Remember, persistence is key. And if all else fails, there’s always the trusty “turn it off and on again” method. Works for computers, might work for ETA payments!

In conclusion, getting your Kenya ETA might not be the most exciting part of planning your trip, but it’s definitely one of the most important. Think of it as your golden ticket to a land of safaris, beaches, and adventures. So embrace the process, follow our guide, and before you know it, you’ll be saying “Jambo” to Kenya! Safe travels, and don’t forget to send us a postcard!