Kenya Visa for American Citizens 2026: Complete eTA Guide

Do American Citizens Need a Visa for Kenya?

No. American citizens do not require a traditional visa to enter Kenya. Instead, all U.S. passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before traveling. The eTA system replaced Kenya's previous eVisa process on January 5, 2024, streamlining entry for visitors from the United States and most other nationalities.

The eTA is a semi-automated digital permission that confirms your eligibility to travel to Kenya. It is not a guarantee of entry—immigration officers make final admissibility decisions upon arrival.

Quick Reference Box: Kenya eTA for Americans

Visa Type Required	Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
Traditional Visa Needed?	No
Maximum Stay	90 days per entry
Cost (Single Entry)	$30 USD (normal processing)
Cost (Multiple Entry, 5 Years)	Confirm on official portal
Expedited Processing	+$100 USD (immediate approval)
Processing Time (Normal)	Up to 72 hours (3 business days)
Processing Time (Expedited)	Immediate
Passport Validity Required	Minimum 6 months from arrival date
Blank Pages Required	At least 1 blank page
Application Portal	etakenya.go.ke
Application Timing	Apply up to 90 days before travel; submit at least 3 days before arrival

eTA Types for American Citizens

Single Entry eTA (90 Days)

The standard eTA for Americans allows one entry into Kenya and a maximum continuous stay of 90 days. This applies to tourism, business, family visits, and conferences. If you need to leave and return to Kenya, you must apply for a new eTA.

Multiple Entry eTA (5 Years)

U.S. citizens are eligible to apply for a multiple entry eTA valid for 5 years. This authorization permits unlimited entries and exits from Kenya within the 5-year validity period, without needing to reapply each time. Confirm the current fee for this option on the official eTA portal, as pricing may differ from the standard single-entry fee.

Transit eTA

If you are passing through Kenya to another destination and will not stay longer than 3 days, a transit eTA is available at a reduced cost.

Who Must Apply for an eTA?

All visitors to Kenya, including infants and children, must have an approved eTA before departure—with very limited exceptions. American citizens are not exempt and must apply online. The only travelers who do not need an eTA include:

• Holders of Kenya Permanent Residence or valid Work Permits
• Citizens of East African Community Partner States (Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda) for up to 180 days
• Holders of valid Kenya re-entry passes
• Diplomats holding valid diplomatic passports (though they may pay for expedited processing)

American tourists and business travelers are not on this exemption list and must complete the eTA application.

Step-by-Step eTA Application for Americans

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before starting your application, prepare the following:

• Valid U.S. Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from your intended date of arrival in Kenya, with at least 1 blank page.
• Digital Selfie or Passport-Type Photo: Recent, clear photo meeting Kenya's specifications (typically JPEG format, face clearly visible, neutral background).
• Email Address & Phone Number: Active contact details for receiving your eTA approval.
• Travel Itinerary: Your planned arrival and departure dates.
• Accommodation Booking Confirmation: Hotel reservation, Airbnb confirmation, or an invitation letter from a family member or friend (must include their identity details).
• Payment Method: Valid credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) for the application fee.

Purpose-Specific Documents

Depending on your travel purpose, you may need to submit additional documents:

• For Medical Travel: Referral letter from a hospital or doctor
• For Conferences: Invitation or participation letter from the event organizer
• For Business Travel: Invitation letter from the Kenyan company, company registration copy
• For Employment: Employment contract or job offer letter
• For Family Visits: Invitation letter and identity documents of your family member/host
• Vaccination or Test Certificates: Yellow fever vaccination proof (if applicable; see Health Requirements below)

Step 2: Visit the Official eTA Portal

Go directly to etakenya.go.ke, the only official government portal. Do not use third-party visa websites, which often charge inflated fees for the same service. The government portal is secure and processes applications in real time.

Step 3: Create an Account & Complete the Application

Register as a new visitor and log in. You will be prompted to:

• Enter your passport details (number, issue date, expiration date)
• Provide personal information (full name, date of birth, nationality)
• Select your travel purpose (tourism, business, visit family, conference, medical, resettlement)
• Enter your travel dates and planned accommodation
• Upload your passport bio page scan and selfie/passport photo
• Review all information for accuracy before submission

Double-check all entries—errors can delay processing or result in rejection.

Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents

Attach digital copies of:

• Your accommodation booking (hotel confirmation, Airbnb receipt, or invitation letter)
• Any purpose-specific documents (business invitation, medical referral, etc.)
• Proof of return or onward travel (flight booking confirmation)

Ensure all documents are clear, legible, and in PDF or JPEG format where specified.

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

Select your processing speed and pay online:

• Normal Processing ($30 USD): Approval within up to 72 hours (3 business days)
• Expedited Processing ($130 USD): Immediate approval (within minutes)

Fees are non-refundable. Save your payment receipt and application reference number for your records.

Step 6: Receive Your eTA via Email

Once approved, your eTA will be sent to the email address you provided. Print a copy and carry it with your passport. You must present the printed eTA and your passport to the immigration officer upon arrival in Kenya. While some travelers report being allowed entry with a digital copy on their phone, printing is the safest option.

eTA Fees & Payment Methods

Standard Fees

eTA Type	Processing Speed	Cost (USD)
Single Entry	Normal (up to 72 hours)	$30
Single Entry	Expedited (immediate)	$130
Multiple Entry (5 years)	Normal	Confirm on portal
Transit (up to 3 days)	Normal	Confirm on portal

Accepted Payment Methods

The official eTA portal accepts:

• Visa and Mastercard credit cards
• Debit cards
• International payment gateways

Ensure your card is enabled for international transactions before attempting payment.

Group Applications

If you are traveling with family or a group, each person (including children and infants) must submit an individual eTA application and pay the corresponding fee. Select "Apply as a Group" on the portal to link applications for easier tracking, but each applicant pays separately.

Processing Times & Validity

Normal Processing (Standard Fee: $30)

Applications are processed within up to 72 hours (3 business days). Kenya Immigration recommends submitting your application at least 3 days before your planned travel date to allow adequate processing time. You may apply up to 90 days in advance.

Expedited Processing (Premium Fee: +$100)

For an additional $100 USD, your application will be processed immediately, typically within minutes. This is useful if you are traveling on short notice.

eTA Validity

• Single Entry eTA: Valid for 90 days from the date of approval. You must enter Kenya within this window; once you leave Kenya, the eTA expires and you cannot re-enter on the same authorization.
• Multiple Entry eTA: Valid for 5 years from approval, allowing unlimited entries and exits without reapplication.
• Length of Stay: Once in Kenya, you may stay for up to 90 consecutive days per entry, regardless of eTA type.

Health Requirements: Yellow Fever Vaccination

Who Needs Yellow Fever Proof?

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if you are:

• Arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission
• Transiting through a yellow fever endemic country for 12 or more hours
• From a country currently reporting an active or ongoing yellow fever outbreak

Vaccination Timing

You should be vaccinated at least 10 days before travel to allow the vaccine to take effect. The certificate becomes valid 10 days after vaccination and is recognized internationally for 10 years.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

According to the U.S. State Department, travelers arriving from endemic countries without proof of vaccination may be denied entry. If you cannot provide a certificate and are required to do so, Kenya immigration may refuse you boarding or entry.

COVID-19 Requirements

As of 2026, COVID-19 vaccination certificates are no longer mandatory for entry to Kenya. However, some safari lodges or tour operators may request proof of vaccination—confirm with your accommodation before travel.

Passport Requirements

Validity

Your U.S. passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your intended date of arrival in Kenya. If your passport expires within 6 months of your planned trip, renew it before applying for the eTA.

Blank Pages

Your passport must have at least 1 blank page (some sources recommend 2 for safety). Kenya immigration may stamp your eTA or entry/exit information in your passport, so blank pages are essential.

Passport Condition

Your passport must be in good condition—not damaged, water-stained, or heavily marked. Immigration may reject a passport that appears altered or significantly worn.

On Arrival: Immigration Checks & Entry Process

What to Present at Immigration

When you arrive at a Kenyan airport (Jomo Kenyatta International, Mombasa, Kisumu, etc.), have ready:

• Your printed eTA approval (or digital copy on your phone as backup)
• Your valid U.S. passport
• Your return or onward flight ticket
• Proof of accommodation (hotel booking, invitation letter)
• Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if applicable)

Immigration Officer's Role

The eTA pre-screens your eligibility, but the immigration officer makes the final decision on admission. They may ask:

• Purpose and duration of your stay
• Where you are staying and who you will visit
• Proof of sufficient funds
• Your occupation and employer
• Return flight details

Answer honestly and concisely. If you cannot provide satisfactory answers or your documents are incomplete, you may be denied entry.

Typical Processing at Immigration

Immigration processing usually takes 5–15 minutes per person at major airports. Arrival queues can be longer during peak times (early morning, evening), so allow extra time if connecting to a domestic flight.

Currency & Money Declarations

Kenya has no currency restriction for entry, but there is a maximum export limit of 100,000 Kenyan Shillings (approximately $770 USD) when leaving the country. If you are carrying more cash than this, declare it to avoid complications on departure.

Transit Through Kenya

Do You Need an eTA?

Yes. Even if you are only transiting through Kenya (passing through without leaving the airport), you must have an approved eTA. A transit eTA is available for stays of up to 3 days and is cheaper than a standard tourist eTA.

Transit Visa Option

If applying through the legacy eCitizen portal (for comparison), a transit visa costs $21 USD and is valid for stays not exceeding 3 days. Confirm whether the eTA portal offers a comparable transit rate.

Extending Your Stay Beyond 90 Days

Can You Extend an eTA?

The eTA itself cannot be extended. If you wish to stay in Kenya longer than 90 days, you must apply for a visa extension through the Kenya Immigration Service while you are in the country. Contact the Directorate of Immigration Services in Nairobi or visit their office at Nyayo House, Ground Floor.

How to Apply for an Extension

• Visit the Immigration office in Nairobi or your nearest regional office
• Submit a completed visa extension application form
• Provide your passport, current eTA, and a letter explaining your reason for extension
• Pay the extension fee (amount varies by extension length)
• Processing typically takes 2–5 business days

Extensions are not guaranteed and are granted at the discretion of immigration authorities. Apply well before your 90-day period expires.

Overstays & Penalties

What Happens If You Overstay?

Overstaying your eTA validity is a serious offense in Kenya. Penalties include:

• Substantial fines (thousands of Kenyan Shillings)
• Detention and potential deportation
• Blacklisting from future entry to Kenya
• Damage to your travel record with other countries

How to Avoid Overstays

Mark your departure date on your calendar. If you need to stay longer, apply for an extension before your 90 days expire. Do not wait until the last day.

Common Application Mistakes & Rejections

Passport Errors

Mistake: Entering your passport number incorrectly or using an expired passport number from an old passport.
Fix: Double-check your current passport number character by character. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel date.

Photo Issues

Mistake: Submitting a blurry, old, or heavily filtered selfie; wearing sunglasses or a hat; or using a photo with a colored background.
Fix: Use a recent, clear, well-lit photo with a neutral white or light background. Your face must be clearly visible and fill 70–80% of the frame.

Incomplete Accommodation Details

Mistake: Providing vague accommodation information (e.g., "staying with a friend" without contact details or an invitation letter).
Fix: Provide a formal hotel booking confirmation or a signed invitation letter from your host with their full name, address, phone number, and identity details.

Mismatched Travel Dates

Mistake: Entering arrival/departure dates that don't match your flight bookings, or applying for dates that have already passed.
Fix: Ensure your eTA application dates align exactly with your flight itinerary. Apply for future travel dates only.

Missing Yellow Fever Certificate

Mistake: Arriving from an endemic country without uploading yellow fever vaccination proof, then being denied entry.
Fix: If you are arriving from a yellow fever risk country, obtain the vaccine at least 10 days before departure and upload the certificate with your application.

Applying Too Close to Travel Date

Mistake: Submitting your eTA application 1–2 days before departure, leaving no buffer for processing delays.
Fix: Apply at least 3–5 days before your planned arrival, or choose expedited processing if you are close to your departure date.

Using Unofficial Websites

Mistake: Paying visa agencies or third-party websites inflated fees (often $50–$150+) for the same $30 eTA.
Fix: Apply only through etakenya.go.ke. The official government portal is free, secure, and the only legitimate source.

Minors & Family Travel

Do Children Need an eTA?

Yes. All visitors to Kenya, including infants and children, must have an approved eTA before arrival. There is no age exemption.

Who Applies for Minors?

Children under 18 cannot apply independently. A parent, legal guardian, or accompanying adult must complete the eTA application on their behalf. The adult provides the child's passport details and uploads a photo of the child.

Documents for Minors

• Valid child passport (6 months validity)
• Clear photo of the child
• Birth certificate or legal guardianship documents (may be required)
• If traveling without both parents: letter of consent from the non-traveling parent(s)

Planning Your Kenya Safari After eTA Approval

Once your eTA is approved and you've arranged accommodations, consider planning your safari experience. SafariFind offers Kenya safari packages under $2,000 with vetted operators, making it easy to compare guided tours, lodge options, and national park visits. Whether you're interested in the Masai Mara, Amboseli, or Tsavo, you can browse and book directly on our platform.

Contact Information & Official Resources

Kenya eTA Portal & Support

• Official Website: etakenya.go.ke
• eTA Support Email: etakenya@immigration.go.ke
• eTA Support Phone: +254 110-922062, +254 110-922063, +254 110-922064
• Directorate of Immigration Services: Nyayo House, Ground Floor, Nairobi; info@immigration.go.ke; +254 20 2222022

Kenya Embassy & Consulate (United States)

• Embassy of Kenya, Washington D.C.: 2249 R Street NW, Washington D.C. 20008; Phone: (202) 387-6101; Email: information@kenyaembassydc.org or immigration@kenyaembassydc.org
• U.S. Embassy in Kenya (for American citizens): United Nations Avenue, Gigiri, Nairobi; Phone: +(254) 20 363-6000; Email: kenya_acs@state.gov

U.S. State Department Travel Advisory

For the latest travel safety information, health advisories, and entry requirements, visit the U.S. State Department Kenya travel page.

Key Takeaways

• American citizens do not need a traditional visa but must apply for an eTA before traveling to Kenya.
• Apply online at etakenya.go.ke only—do not use third-party websites.
• Standard processing costs $30 USD and takes up to 72 hours; expedited processing costs $130 USD and is immediate.
• Your U.S. passport must be valid for at least 6 months and have at least 1 blank page.
• You must provide proof of accommodation and may need a yellow fever vaccination certificate.
• The eTA allows a single 90-day stay; if you need multiple entries, apply for a 5-year multiple entry eTA.
• Apply at least 3 days before travel to allow processing time.
• On arrival, present your printed eTA, passport, and supporting documents to immigration.
• Overstaying your eTA can result in fines, detention, and deportation.
• All travelers, including children and infants, must have an approved eTA.

Last checked July 2026 — always confirm with official sources before travelling. Requirements and fees may change. Visit etakenya.go.ke or contact the Kenya Immigration Service for the most current information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do American citizens need a visa for Kenya?

No. American citizens do not need a traditional visa but must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before traveling to Kenya. The eTA replaced Kenya's eVisa system on January 5, 2024, and is now required for all non-exempt visitors, including U.S. citizens.

How much does a Kenya eTA cost for Americans?

A single-entry eTA costs $30 USD with normal processing (up to 72 hours) or $130 USD with expedited processing (immediate approval). Multiple-entry eTAs valid for 5 years are also available for U.S. citizens; confirm the current fee on the official etakenya.go.ke portal.

How long does it take to get a Kenya eTA?

Standard eTA applications are processed within up to 72 hours (3 business days). Expedited processing is immediate, typically within minutes. Kenya Immigration recommends applying at least 3 days before your planned travel date to allow adequate processing time.

How long is a Kenya eTA valid for?

A single-entry eTA is valid for 90 days from the date of approval, and you must enter Kenya within that window. Once you leave Kenya, the single-entry eTA expires. A multiple-entry eTA is valid for 5 years and allows unlimited entries and exits.

How long can Americans stay in Kenya on an eTA?

You can stay in Kenya for up to 90 consecutive days per entry on an eTA. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a visa extension through Kenya Immigration while in the country before your 90 days expire.

What documents do I need to apply for a Kenya eTA?

You need a valid U.S. passport (6 months validity, at least 1 blank page), a digital selfie or passport-type photo, your email and phone number, travel itinerary, accommodation booking confirmation, and a valid credit/debit card for payment. Depending on your travel purpose, you may need additional documents such as a yellow fever vaccination certificate, business invitation, or medical referral.

Is yellow fever vaccination required for Kenya?

Yellow fever vaccination is required if you are arriving from or transiting through a country with yellow fever transmission risk for 12+ hours. You should be vaccinated at least 10 days before travel. If you cannot provide proof and are required to do so, you may be denied entry.

Can I apply for a Kenya eTA on behalf of my child?

Yes. Children under 18 cannot apply independently; a parent, legal guardian, or accompanying adult must complete the eTA application on their behalf. All children, including infants, must have an approved eTA before traveling to Kenya.

What happens if I overstay my Kenya eTA?

Overstaying is a serious offense and can result in substantial fines, detention, deportation, and blacklisting from future entry to Kenya. To avoid this, apply for a visa extension before your 90-day eTA period expires.

Can I extend my Kenya eTA while I'm in the country?

The eTA itself cannot be extended. However, you can apply for a visa extension through Kenya Immigration while in Kenya. Visit the Directorate of Immigration Services in Nairobi or a regional office, submit an extension application form, and pay the applicable fee. Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration authorities.

Can I use a digital copy of my eTA, or must I print it?

While some travelers report being allowed entry with a digital copy on their phone, printing your eTA approval is the safest and most recommended option. Always carry a printed copy with your passport when arriving in Kenya.

What is the difference between an eTA and a traditional visa?

An eTA is a digital travel authorization that pre-screens your eligibility before arrival; a traditional visa is a stamp or document in your passport issued by an embassy. Kenya's eTA system is faster, cheaper, and entirely online. The immigration officer still makes the final admissibility decision upon arrival.