Kenya Visa for British Citizens 2026: eTA Requirements & Guide

Do British Citizens Need a Visa for Kenya?

Yes. British citizens must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before entering Kenya . This replaced the traditional visa system on January 5, 2024 . You cannot obtain a visa on arrival—all visitors, including British passport holders, must apply online in advance . Without an approved eTA, you will be denied boarding by your airline .

Kenya eTA for British Citizens: Quick Facts

Requirement	Details
Visa Type	Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
Cost	$51 USD
Processing Time	Typically 3 working days ; recommend applying 2 weeks ahead
Validity	Single entry; valid for 90 days from approval
Maximum Stay	90 consecutive days
Application Method	Online only at etakenya.go.ke
Official Portal	https://etakenya.go.ke

Passport & Validity Requirements

Your British passport must meet these criteria :

• Valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date in Kenya
• At least 2 blank pages remaining
• Not reported lost or stolen

If your passport doesn't meet these requirements, renew it before applying for your eTA .

Who Is Exempt from the Kenya eTA?

The following British nationals do not need an eTA :

• Serving Members of the British Military
• Holders of Kenya Permanent Residence or valid Work Permits
• Those with valid Kenya re-entry passes or written authority in lieu

All other British citizens must apply for an eTA.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Your Kenya eTA

Step 1: Visit the Official Portal

Go to https://etakenya.go.ke . This is the only official government portal; avoid third-party visa websites that charge inflated fees for the same service.

Step 2: Create Your Account

Register with your email address and create a login. You will receive your approved eTA digitally at this email, so ensure it is valid and monitored .

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

Provide the following information :

• Full name as it appears on your passport
• Date of birth
• Passport number and expiry date
• Travel dates (arrival and departure)
• Purpose of visit (tourism, business, family visit, etc.)
• Accommodation details (hotel name or host address)
• Return or onward flight details

Double-check all entries before submission—errors may cause delays or rejections.

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

Prepare digital scans of :

• Passport biographical page: High-quality color scan (JPEG or PNG format)
• Recent passport-style photograph: Digital format, typically 35×45 mm, white or neutral background, taken within the last 6 months

Ensure all documents are clear and legible. Blurry or incomplete uploads may result in rejection.

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

The eTA fee is $51 USD , payable online via international credit or debit card. Save your payment receipt as proof of application.

Step 6: Submit and Wait for Approval

After submission, your application enters the processing queue. You will receive a confirmation email. Check your inbox (including spam folder) for your approval notification.

eTA Processing Times & Validity

Standard Processing: Applications are typically processed within 3 working days . However, the Kenya Directorate of Immigration recommends applying at least 2 weeks before your departure date to allow adequate time for processing and to address any requests for additional information.

Urgent Processing: An expedited service is available, though details on fees and timelines should be confirmed on the official portal .

Validity & Use: Once approved, your eTA is valid for 90 days from the date of approval . You must enter Kenya within this window. The authorization permits a single entry and allows you to stay for up to 90 consecutive days .

Print Your eTA: You must print a copy of your approved eTA and carry it with your passport when you travel . Immigration officers will scan your printed eTA or verify it digitally upon arrival.

eTA Fees & Payment Methods

Visa Type	Fee (USD)	Entries	Duration
Single Entry eTA (Tourism/Business)	$51	Single	Up to 90 days
Transit eTA	$21	Single	Up to 3 days

Payment Methods: The official portal accepts international credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) . No cash, bank transfer, or cryptocurrency payments are accepted online.

Currency: Fees are charged in USD. Your bank may apply foreign exchange rates or processing fees—check with your card issuer for exact costs in GBP.

What to Expect at Kenyan Immigration (Arrival)

Document Requirements at the Port of Entry

When you arrive in Kenya, have the following ready for immigration officers :

• Your valid British passport
• Printed copy of your approved eTA (or digital copy on your phone)
• Return or onward travel ticket
• Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)

Health Screening & Vaccinations

Depending on where you are traveling from, you may face additional health checks :

Yellow Fever Vaccination: If you are arriving from a country listed as a yellow fever transmission risk, you must present proof of yellow fever vaccination . Without it, you may be denied entry.

Ebola Screening: Travelers arriving from Uganda, Ethiopia, or the Democratic Republic of Congo may undergo enhanced health screening due to the ongoing Ebola outbreak .

COVID-19 Testing (if unvaccinated): Unvaccinated travelers meeting exemption criteria must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate taken within 72 hours of departure . Rapid antigen tests on arrival cost $30 USD; PCR tests cost $50 USD .

For comprehensive vaccination guidance, consult SafariFind's Kenya vaccinations & health rules guide, which covers recommended immunizations for all visitors.

Immigration Interview

Officers will verify your eTA, passport, and documents. Be prepared to answer questions about :

• Purpose of your visit (tourism, business, family visit)
• Duration of stay
• Accommodation details
• Return travel plans

Answer truthfully and concisely. The eTA is a preliminary security clearance—immigration officers retain final authority to admit or deny entry .

Transit Through Kenya

If you are transiting through Kenya to another destination and not leaving the airport, you may not need an eTA—confirm with your airline. However, if you are leaving the airport during your layover, you must obtain a Transit eTA ($21 USD) , valid for up to 3 days .

Extending Your Stay Beyond 90 Days

The standard eTA permits a single 90-day stay. If you need to remain in Kenya longer, you must contact the Kenyan Department of Immigration before your eTA expires to request an extension. Extensions are not guaranteed and require valid justification (e.g., medical treatment, business necessity). Plan your trip duration carefully to avoid overstay penalties.

Overstaying Your eTA: Penalties & Consequences

Remaining in Kenya beyond your authorized 90-day period is illegal and carries serious consequences :

• Fines: Daily penalties and substantial fines imposed by immigration authorities
• Deportation: Forced removal from the country at your own expense
• Entry Ban: Prohibition from re-entering Kenya for a specified period
• Passport Marking: Your British passport may be flagged, affecting future travel to Kenya and other countries

Monitor your eTA expiry date closely and depart Kenya before it expires.

Common Mistakes & Reasons for eTA Rejection

Application Errors Leading to Rejection

• Passport Mismatch: Information on your application does not match your passport exactly (spelling, date of birth, passport number). Recheck every field.
• Expired or Invalid Passport: Your passport does not have 6 months' validity remaining or has fewer than 2 blank pages. Renew before applying.
• Poor Quality Documents: Blurry, incomplete, or incorrectly formatted passport scans or photos. Use high-resolution color scans and professional-quality passport photos.
• Incomplete Application: Missing required fields (accommodation details, return flight, purpose of visit). Complete all mandatory sections.
• Wrong Email Address: Providing an incorrect or unmonitored email. Your approval will be sent here—verify it is correct.

Security & Eligibility Flags

• Criminal History or Immigration Issues: Prior visa overstays, deportations, or criminal convictions may result in automatic denial. Disclose any relevant history truthfully.
• Inconsistent Travel Information: Flight dates, accommodation, or previous travel history that appears suspicious or contradictory.
• Insufficient Financial Proof: While not always required, having evidence of funds to support your stay (bank statements, credit card) may be requested and should be available.

If Your Application Is Rejected

If denied, you will receive an email explaining the reason. Common remedies include :

• Correcting information and reapplying
• Providing additional documents (updated passport, financial statements, invitation letter)
• Contacting the Kenyan High Commission in the UK for clarification or appeal

Kenyan High Commission Contact: For assistance, reach out to the High Commission in London or consult the official immigration directorate at +254 110-922062 or etakenya@immigration.go.ke .

eTA vs. Traditional Visa: What Changed?

Prior to January 5, 2024, British citizens could apply for a traditional e-Visa or obtain a visa on arrival in Kenya . The eTA system has now replaced both :

Aspect	Old System (e-Visa)	New System (eTA)
Application	Online or in-person at embassy	Online only
Visa on Arrival	Available	Abolished
Processing	3–5 days	3 working days
Fee	Varied ($51–$101 USD)	$51 USD (single entry)
Validity	Variable	90 days from approval
Entry Requirement	Required before departure	Required before departure

If you hold a valid traditional e-Visa, you can continue to use it until expiry . However, for new applications, only the eTA is available.

Dual Citizenship & British Passport Holders

If you hold both a British passport and another nationality, you must travel to Kenya using your British passport . When returning to the UK, you are similarly required to use your British passport or Certificate of Entitlement . Using another passport to enter Kenya and then presenting your British passport at UK immigration may create complications—always use your British passport for Kenya travel.

Planning Your Safari: Beyond the Visa

Once your eTA is approved, you can focus on planning your safari experience. If you are comparing destinations, SafariFind's guide to Tanzania vs Kenya safaris for UK travelers provides detailed comparisons on wildlife, cost, and experience. British travelers can browse Kenya safari packages under £2,000 to find vetted operators and lodges matching your budget and interests.

Key Contacts & Resources

Official Kenya Immigration Portal: https://etakenya.go.ke

Kenyan High Commission in the UK: For visa-related inquiries or appeals, contact the High Commission in London.

UK Foreign Office Travel Advice: The UK government's Kenya travel advice page provides current entry requirements and safety updates .

eTA Support Contact Numbers:

• +254 110-922062
• +254 110-922063
• +254 110-922064
• Email: etakenya@immigration.go.ke

Frequently Asked Questions

Last checked July 2026 — always confirm with official sources before travelling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do British citizens need a visa for Kenya?

Yes. British citizens must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before entering Kenya . The visa on arrival facility has been abolished, and all visitors must apply online at etakenya.go.ke in advance . Without an approved eTA, you will be denied boarding by your airline .

How much does a Kenya eTA cost for British citizens?

A single-entry eTA for tourism or business costs $51 USD . A transit eTA (for stays up to 3 days) costs $21 USD . Fees are paid online via international credit or debit card at the time of application.

How long does it take to get a Kenya eTA?

Processing typically takes 3 working days . However, the Kenya Directorate of Immigration recommends applying at least 2 weeks before your departure date to allow time for processing and to address any additional information requests.

How long is a Kenya eTA valid for?

Once approved, your eTA is valid for 90 days from the approval date . You must enter Kenya within this window and can stay for up to 90 consecutive days . It permits a single entry only.

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

You need : a valid British passport (scanned biographical page), a recent passport-style photograph in digital format (JPEG or PNG), your email address, and details of your accommodation and return flight. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date and have at least 2 blank pages .

Can I get a visa on arrival in Kenya?

No. The visa on arrival facility has been abolished . All visitors, including British citizens, must apply for an eTA online before departure. You cannot obtain a visa at the airport or port of entry.

Do I need yellow fever vaccination to enter Kenya?

Only if you are arriving from a country listed as a yellow fever transmission risk . If required, you must present proof of yellow fever vaccination at immigration. Check the official Kenya travel advice page or TravelHealthPro for a current list of endemic countries .

Can I extend my Kenya eTA beyond 90 days?

The standard eTA permits a 90-day stay with no extension built in. If you need to stay longer, contact the Kenyan Department of Immigration before your eTA expires to request an extension. Extensions are not guaranteed and require valid justification. Plan your trip duration carefully to avoid overstaying.

What happens if I overstay my Kenya eTA?

Overstaying is illegal and carries severe penalties: daily fines, forced deportation at your own expense, prohibition from re-entering Kenya, and potential passport marking that may affect future travel . Monitor your eTA expiry date closely and depart before it expires.

If I hold dual British and another nationality, which passport should I use for Kenya?

You must travel to Kenya using your British passport . When returning to the UK, you must also use your British passport or Certificate of Entitlement . Using another passport to enter Kenya may create complications with UK immigration.

What should I do if my Kenya eTA application is rejected?

You will receive an email explaining the reason. Common causes are passport mismatches, expired passports, or poor document quality. Correct the issue and reapply, or contact the Kenyan High Commission in London or the immigration directorate at etakenya@immigration.go.ke for clarification .

Do I need to print my Kenya eTA, or is a digital copy sufficient?

You must print a copy of your approved eTA and carry it with your passport when you travel . Immigration officers will scan or verify it upon arrival. Keep a digital backup on your phone as well.