Kenya eVisa: How to Apply Online Without the Hassle

To discover the adventures of Kenya, you have to get a travel permit or a Kenya eVisa. Getting a visa for Kenya has become easier for you with the Kenya visa online system. The Kenya government implemented the eTA system to make the entry process easy for visitors. So, it is a pre-authorization system that replaces the Kenya eVisa.

The Kenya visa online is a more effective and quicker process and it also reduces the wait times. It totally changes your whole entry process. Both the Kenya eVisa and the eTA are digital processes, but the eTA is preferred by most visitors. However, you can check the Kenya visa requirements and the application process to complete it without any hassles.

Benefits of a Kenya Visa Online

If you are getting a visa for Kenya, then the eTA will be a great fit if all your travel requirements are aligned with it. The benefits of a Kenya visa online or eTA are.

• You can apply at any time because of its online process.
• Enter Kenya once with a validity of 3 months.
• You can skip the embassy queues and lengthy paperwork.
• Stay and explore Kenya for 90 days.
• You can get your approval within a few days (mostly within 72 hours).
• Get your eTA via email (which saves you time).
• You can get your Kenya eTA before your trip (making the entry process seamless).
• The eTA processing fee is cost-effective.

What is the Kenya eTA?

A visa for Kenya is mandatory for most travelers and understanding the requirements is essential for a smooth process. The Kenya eTA is a pre-screening process for international visitors and a digital permit which permits you to enter and explore Kenya.

The Kenya eVisa and eTA are different entry permits. The eligibility and application process differ for the Kenya eVisa and eTA. The eTA is easier to obtain, providing a smoother entry experience.

You can use your Kenya eTA for the following travel purposes.

• Tourist, safari adventure, vacation and sightseeing activities.
• Meeting your family members and friends or staying with them.
• For transit and short layovers in Kenya.
• Taking business activities such as site visits, workshops and client meetings.

The Kenya eVisa is the previously used system, and the eTA is the faster and simpler system, best suited for short trips. The transition from Kenya eVisa to eTA comes with various benefits, so it is essential to stay informed about the latest Kenya visa application process and requirements.

Documents Required for the Kenya eTA Application

• Your valid Passport
• Flight details (regarding your return or onward travel).
• Your recent digital
• Hotel address and reservation details (as your accommodation proof in Kenya).
• Your passport copy (the bio page).
• A complete Kenya travel itinerary (with details of your trip, your return date and contact number).
• Your email ID.

The documents are essential Kenya visa requirements, you might need a few additional documents for your Kenya visa application process, which are situational, like your financial documents (bank statement and pay slip) and vaccination certificate.

According to your travel intent, you have to provide the related documents (the company’s registration documents or an invitation letter) for a business visit. An onward ticket is required for transit purposes. An invitation letter (including your host’s contact number and details) and the host’s ID for staying with them in Kenya.

How to Complete Your Kenya eTA Application Form Online?

Completing your application form for Kenya eTA will only take 15-25 minutes of your time. The Kenya visa application process is online and it is important to know the eTA process.

You can apply for an eTA without having to wait in long queues and visiting the embassy. Therefore, follow the easy steps to get you to submit your Kenya eTA application online form.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility and the Documents

To apply for a Kenya eTA, you should check the eligible countries list and ensure that you are a citizen or passport holder of one of them. Additionally, your travel requirements must comply with the Kenya visa requirements.

Step 2: Visit the eTA Website

Visit Kenya eTA Portal and before starting the process, check the documents required to get your visa for Kenya. You can also check the additional details and once you are ready to start the process, click the Apply Now tab.

Step 3: Complete Your eTA Online Form

You can start providing your details, making sure not to leave any fields blank. The Kenya eTA form requires your contact information, travel dates, personal details and other details. You should provide your accurate details only.

Step 4: Upload Your Travel Documents

Next, upload your passport scanned copy, travel itinerary, photo, flight tickets and other documents. You should use only MS Word, JPEG or PDF to upload your documents. Ensure to upload clear copies of your documents.

Step 5: Check the eTA Form

Finally, review all your details and check the eTA for any errors (if any, correct them), before submitting. Also, review your attached documents to ensure everything is accurate and complete.

Step 6: Pay the eTA Application fee

You are also advised to check the Kenya eTA fee online and ensure you have adequate funds to complete the payment successfully. You can use the online methods or your card to pay your eTA application fee.

The processing time of Kenya eTA is fast and it ranges from 24-72 hours (within 1-3 days). You must apply 7-8 days before travel. Once you receive the eTA via email, download it and print a copy to carry it upon your arrival.

Tips for Hassle-free Application Process

• Thoroughly check the Kenya visa requirements and other details.
• Submit your application early to manage unexpected rejections or delays.
• Check the validity of all your supporting documents before starting the Kenya visa application process.
• Use acceptable file size and format for uploading your photo and other documents.
• Reviewing your eTA online form carefully before submission is essential.
• Do not use an invalid passport or documents to submit your eTA form.
• Make sure all required supporting documents are properly attached.

Extension Process of Kenya eTA

The initial stay permitted with a Kenya eTA is 90 days. However, to extend your stay (beyond the initial stay duration), you must apply for an extension, which is processed at the immigration office. So, visiting the office is a mandatory process.

Also, you need to submit your documents, such as financial proof, eTA, accommodation proof, etc., to support your extension stay. You must submit your eTA extension application before your Kenya eTA expires. Upon approval of your extension application, you will be provided with an additional 90 days stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I still need a Kenya eVisa to travel to Kenya?

You do not need a Kenya eVisa to visit Kenya, instead, you can get the eTA (if you are eligible) before your arrival. Know about the latest Kenya visa and entry requirements before your travel.

What is the processing time of the Kenya eTA?

The application processing time is around 72 hours (or within 1-3 days). Factors such as additional verification or incorrect information can delay your processing time. So, apply early and ensure your eTA online form is error-free.

Do I have to submit a separate Kenya eTA application for my kids?

Each visitor (including your kids) needs a separate Kenya eTA. You can also submit the eTA application for your kids. Your child’s birth certificate, passport and other documents are required for their eTA application.

What to do if my Kenya eTA application is denied or rejected?

If your eTA application is rejected, then read the rejection letter thoroughly to know the reason. You can address the reason and reapply, but ensure to apply with your accurate details.

What is the Kenya eTA’s validity period?

The Kenya eTA is valid for 3 months (or 90 days) and it allows single-entry only. The validity of your eTA starts from its issuance date. The permitted stay is 90 days, so plan your return within your eTA’s validity period.

READ MORE:
Learn about common Kenya eTA issues and how to avoid them. From incorrect personal information to payment problems, follow these expert tips to apply. Learn more at Common Kenya eTA Problems: How Applicants Can Avoid Them.