Kenya Visa for French Citizens 2026: eTA Requirements & Guide

Do French Citizens Need a Visa for Kenya?

Yes. French citizens are not on Kenya's visa-exempt list and must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before entering Kenya. As of January 2024, Kenya transitioned from the old ecitizen.go.ke platform to the new etakenya.go.ke portal, where all visa applications must now be submitted. The eTA is a single-entry, online-only authorization valid for 90 consecutive days of tourism or business travel.

Quick Facts for French Travellers

• Visa type required: Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) – single entry
• Official portal: etakenya.go.ke
• Cost: USD 51 for tourist eTA
• Processing time: Up to 3 business days (standard)
• Validity: 90 days from date of issuance
• Duration of stay: Up to 90 days (determined at point of entry)
• Passport validity required: Minimum 6 months beyond travel date, with 2 blank pages

Visa Types Available for French Citizens

Kenya offers three primary visa categories for foreign nationals, including French citizens:

Visa Type	Purpose	Duration	Fee (USD)	Entry Type
Single Entry eTA (Tourist)	Tourism, leisure, visiting family/friends	Up to 90 days	$51	Single entry
Single Entry eTA (Business)	Business meetings, conferences, negotiations	Up to 90 days	$51	Single entry
Transit Visa	Passing through Kenya to another destination	Up to 72 hours	$21	Single entry

Note: Multiple-entry visas (valid 6–12 months) are available but require referral to the Director of Immigration Services in Nairobi and take 1–2 weeks to process. These are typically for frequent business travellers. Standard tourist and business eTAs do not permit multiple entries.

Step-by-Step eTA Application Process

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

Before starting your online application, gather the following:

• Valid passport: At least 6 months validity from your travel date, with a minimum of 2 blank pages
• Passport bio page scan: Clear, high-resolution digital copy of the photo page
• Recent passport-sized photograph: Colour photo on white background, typically 4×6 cm
• Travel itinerary: Round-trip flight booking confirmation or booking reference
• Proof of accommodation: Hotel booking confirmation, Airbnb reservation, or invitation letter from a host in Kenya
• Proof of funds: Bank statement or credit card statement showing sufficient funds for your stay
• Email address: A valid email where your approved eTA will be sent

Optional but recommended: Yellow fever vaccination certificate (see Health Requirements below).

Step 2: Visit the Official eTA Portal

Go to etakenya.go.ke. This is the only official government portal for Kenya eTA applications. The Kenya Embassy in Paris and the Kenyan government explicitly warn that payments made to any other website are not legitimate and may result in loss of funds.

Step 3: Complete the Online Application Form

Create an account or log in. You will be asked to:

• Select your visa type (Tourist or Business)
• Enter your full name as it appears on your passport
• Provide your passport number and issue/expiry dates
• Select your nationality (France)
• Enter your date of birth
• Provide contact details (email, phone number, home address)
• Specify your intended arrival date and port of entry (Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, etc.)
• Upload scanned documents (passport bio page, photograph)
• Declare any criminal convictions or immigration violations

Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents

The portal will prompt you to upload:

• Passport bio page (PDF or JPG, max file size typically 5 MB)
• Passport photograph (JPG, max 5 MB)
• Travel itinerary (PDF)
• Proof of accommodation (PDF or JPG)

Ensure all files are clear and legible. Blurry or incomplete uploads may cause delays or rejection.

Step 5: Review and Submit

Double-check all information for accuracy, especially your passport number and spelling of your name. Once submitted, your application cannot be edited; any changes require a new application and new fee.

Step 6: Make Payment

The portal accepts online payment via international credit/debit cards. See Fees & Payment section below for costs.

Step 7: Receive Your eTA via Email

Once approved, you will receive your eTA as a PDF attachment to your registered email address. Print a copy and carry it with your passport—you must present both at immigration upon arrival in Kenya.

Fees & Payment

Official Government Fee

The Kenya government charges a single fee for tourist and business eTAs:

eTA Type	Fee (USD)
Tourist eTA (Single Entry)	$51
Business eTA (Single Entry)	$51
Transit Visa	$21

Payment Methods

The official etakenya.go.ke portal accepts:

• International credit cards (Visa, Mastercard)
• Online banking transfers (depending on your bank's international payment capability)

All payments are processed in USD. Check your bank's foreign exchange rates and any international transaction fees that may apply.

Refund Policy

The government eTA fee is non-refundable. If your application is denied, you forfeit the fee. If you change your travel plans after paying, you must submit a new application and pay again.

Third-Party Visa Services (Not Recommended)

Some private visa agencies advertise Kenya eTA services with higher fees (e.g., USD 95–159 total, including service charges). While legitimate, these are optional and not endorsed by the Kenyan government. Apply directly via etakenya.go.ke to pay only the official USD 51 fee.

Processing Times & Validity

Standard Processing: 3 Business Days

Most applications are processed within 3 business days of submission. Kenya's immigration directorate defines this as the normal timeframe; however, approvals can sometimes come faster.

Best practice: Submit your eTA application at least 7–10 days before your scheduled departure to allow for unexpected delays and ensure you receive approval before travel.

eTA Validity Period

Once approved, your eTA is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance. This means you have 90 days to enter Kenya; you do not need to travel immediately upon approval. However, once you arrive in Kenya, the duration of your actual stay is determined by the immigration officer at your port of entry and typically does not exceed 90 days.

Urgent Processing (Optional)

Third-party visa agents offer expedited processing for an additional fee (not available directly through the government portal):

• Urgent (24 hours): Approximately USD 139 additional service fee
• Super Urgent (12 hours): Approximately USD 169 additional service fee

These are optional and only necessary if you have an immediate travel need. The official government portal does not offer expedited processing.

Health & Vaccination Requirements

While not mandatory for entry, yellow fever vaccination is strongly recommended and may be required depending on your travel itinerary:

• Yellow fever certificate: Required if arriving from a yellow-fever-endemic country (e.g., parts of sub-Saharan Africa, South America, Asia). Recommended for all safari travellers, particularly those visiting game reserves and rural areas.
• Routine vaccinations: Ensure you are up to date with routine vaccines (MMR, polio, etc.)
• Malaria prophylaxis: Consult your doctor; malaria is endemic in most of Kenya, especially at lower elevations. Antimalarial medication is typically recommended.
• Travel insurance: Highly recommended to cover medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellation.

For comprehensive health guidance, consult your doctor or travel clinic at least 4–6 weeks before departure.

What Happens at Immigration on Arrival

Entry Requirements at the Port of Entry

When you arrive in Kenya (by air, land, or sea), have the following ready:

• Printed eTA: A physical copy of your approved eTA PDF (not just on your phone, though a digital copy is a backup)
• Valid passport: With at least 6 months validity remaining
• Return ticket: Proof of onward or return travel
• Proof of accommodation: Hotel booking or invitation letter
• Yellow fever certificate: If applicable (see above)

Immigration Procedures

At immigration, an officer will:

1. Scan your passport and eTA
2. Verify your identity and travel documents
3. Ask the purpose and duration of your stay
4. Check for any security or health concerns
5. Stamp your passport with an entry stamp and duration of permitted stay (typically up to 90 days)

Processing is usually quick (5–15 minutes) if your eTA is approved and documents are in order. However, peak travel times (holidays, school breaks) can result in longer queues.

Common Questions at Immigration

Be prepared to briefly answer:

• "What is the purpose of your visit?" (tourism, business, visiting family)
• "How long do you plan to stay?" (specify dates)
• "Where will you be staying?" (provide hotel name or address)
• "Do you have sufficient funds?" (yes, and you can show bank statements if asked)

Transit Visas & Connecting Flights

If you are transiting through Kenya for less than 72 hours without leaving the airport, you may not need an eTA, provided you:

• Arrive and depart on the same aircraft, OR
• Transfer to another aircraft without passing through immigration

However, if you leave the airport terminal (even briefly) or have a layover exceeding 72 hours, you must obtain a transit eTA (USD 21).

Extensions & Overstays

Extending Your Stay

If you wish to remain in Kenya beyond your approved stay duration:

• Apply in person: Visit the Directorate of Immigration Services office in Nairobi or a regional immigration office at least 14 days before your permit expires
• Required documents: Valid passport, extension application form, proof of funds, and a letter explaining your reason for extension
• Processing time: 1–2 weeks
• Fee: Confirm with the immigration office (typically KES 5,000–10,000 or equivalent USD)

Overstaying Your Visa

Do not overstay. Remaining in Kenya beyond your permitted stay duration is a serious immigration violation with severe consequences:

• Heavy fines (up to KES 500,000 or approximately USD 3,900)
• Deportation and blacklisting from future entry
• Potential imprisonment
• Damage to your travel record affecting future visa applications worldwide

If you realize you will overstay, contact immigration immediately to apply for an extension before your permit expires.

Common Mistakes & Application Rejections

Frequent Reasons for Denial

The following are common causes of eTA rejection or delays:

• Passport validity: Your passport expires within 6 months of your travel date. Kenya requires 6 months validity beyond your intended stay.
• Incomplete or unclear documents: Blurry passport scans, poor-quality photographs, or illegible uploads.
• Mismatched information: Name spelling, passport number, or date of birth differs between documents and application form.
• Missing supporting documents: No proof of accommodation or no travel itinerary provided.
• Payment failed: Card declined due to international transaction restrictions. Contact your bank to authorize international payments.
• False or misleading information: Any dishonesty on the application (criminal history, visa violations, etc.) results in automatic denial.
• Applying from an unrecognized website: Using a third-party site instead of the official etakenya.go.ke portal.

What to Do If Your Application Is Rejected

If denied, you will receive an email explaining the reason. You must:

1. Correct the issue (e.g., renew your passport, obtain clearer scans)
2. Submit a new application on etakenya.go.ke
3. Pay the full USD 51 fee again (no refund for the first rejected application)

Contact the Kenya immigration helpline for clarification: +254 110-922-064 or etakenya@immigration.go.ke.

Planning Your Safari with the Right Visa

Once you have your approved eTA, you are ready to book your safari. French travellers can explore Kenya's world-renowned game reserves, including the Masai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo, for up to 90 days. When comparing safari tour operators and packages, you can review and book directly on SafariFind, where you'll find vetted operators offering everything from budget camping safaris to luxury lodge experiences.

Ensure your overall entry requirements—including vaccinations, travel insurance, and yellow fever certification—are finalized at least 2 weeks before departure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Verification & Official Resources

Last checked: July 2026

Kenya's visa and immigration regulations change periodically. Always verify current requirements, fees, and processing times on the official portals before applying:

• Official eTA portal: etakenya.go.ke
• Kenya immigration directorate: immigration.go.ke
• Kenya Embassy in Paris: kenyaembassyparis.fr
• Kenya immigration helpline: +254 110-922-064 or etakenya@immigration.go.ke

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processing times are subject to change without notice. Always consult official government sources and your nearest Kenyan diplomatic mission for the most current and accurate information before travelling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do French citizens need a visa for Kenya?

Yes. French citizens must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before entering Kenya. France is not on Kenya's visa-exempt list. The eTA is applied for online via etakenya.go.ke and is valid for 90 days of tourism or business travel.

How much does a Kenya eTA cost for French citizens?

The official government fee is USD 51 for a tourist or business eTA. This is the only cost if you apply directly through the official etakenya.go.ke portal. Transit visas cost USD 21.

How long does it take to get a Kenya eTA?

Standard processing takes up to 3 business days. Apply at least 7–10 days before your trip to allow for unexpected delays. Urgent processing (24 hours or 12 hours) is available through third-party agents for an additional fee, but not directly from the government.

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

You need a valid passport (6 months validity minimum), a scanned passport bio page, a recent colour photograph, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, and proof of funds. A yellow fever certificate is optional but recommended.

Where do I apply for a Kenya eTA?

Apply exclusively on the official government portal: etakenya.go.ke. The Kenya government warns that payments to any other website are not legitimate. Applications are 100% online; you do not need to visit a Kenyan embassy or consulate.

Is a yellow fever vaccine required for Kenya?

Yellow fever vaccination is not mandatory for all travellers but is strongly recommended, especially if you are visiting game reserves or rural areas. It is required if you are arriving from a yellow-fever-endemic country. Consult your doctor at least 4–6 weeks before travel.

Can I extend my Kenya eTA once I arrive?

No. The eTA cannot be extended. If you need to stay longer than your approved duration, you must apply in person at the Directorate of Immigration Services in Nairobi or a regional office at least 14 days before your permit expires. Extensions take 1–2 weeks to process.

What happens if I overstay my Kenya visa?

Overstaying is a serious violation resulting in heavy fines (up to KES 500,000), deportation, and blacklisting from future entry to Kenya and other countries. Always apply for an extension before your permit expires if you need additional time.

Do I need to print my eTA or can I show it on my phone?

You must carry a printed copy of your approved eTA with your passport when you travel. While a digital backup on your phone is helpful, immigration officers require a physical printout at the port of entry.

What is the difference between a tourist and business eTA?

Both are single-entry eTAs valid for 90 days and cost USD 51. The tourist eTA is for leisure, visiting family, or sightseeing. The business eTA is for business meetings, conferences, or negotiations. Choose based on your primary purpose of travel.

Can I get a multiple-entry visa as a French citizen?

Yes, but it requires a separate application referred to the Director of Immigration Services in Nairobi and takes 1–2 weeks to approve. Standard tourist and business eTAs permit only single entry. Multiple-entry visas are typically for frequent business travellers.

What if my Kenya eTA application is rejected?

You will receive an email explaining the reason (e.g., passport validity, unclear documents, incomplete information). Correct the issue and submit a new application; you must pay the full USD 51 fee again as the first fee is non-refundable.