Kenya Visa for French Citizens

The incredible wildlife safari and other diverse attractions of Kenya attract large tourist crowds. More than safaris, the cultural attractions and islands also interest the tourists. French citizens or passport holders should understand Kenya visa requirements to prepare for their Kenya trip. Therefore, to make travel easier, the Kenya government has introduced electronic travel authorization, a streamlined visa process.

Most travelers, including French passport holders, can skip the traditional visa process and choose the Kenya eTA. Obtaining a Kenya visa for French citizens turned into a digital process with the eTA initiative. As a result, Kenya entry process became seamless and more efficient.

Eligible travelers, including French citizens, can get their Kenya eTA online. Know the application process and Kenya eTA requirements and apply in advance.

Do French Travelers Require a Visa for their Kenya Trip?

French citizens will require a visa to visit Kenya. They are mandated to get Kenya eTA to Kenya for short-term visits. The Kenyan government no longer requires French citizens to follow the standard visa process. Instead, they can skip visiting an embassy or consulate. Previously, travelers had to apply in person. Now, that step has been removed. This change, therefore, simplifies entry and saves time. Moreover, it makes traveling to Kenya more accessible for French nationals. It facilitates you to apply from your home.

What is Kenya eTA, and Why Do French Citizens Need It?

The Kenyan government has replaced the traditional visa for French citizens and passport holders with the Kenya eTA. Consequently, they no longer need the old visa. Previously, they had to follow the conventional application process. Now, they can simply apply online. This change, in turn, makes travel easier and faster. Furthermore, it enhances convenience and reduces paperwork. If you are a French citizen, then you should ensure to have an eTA for Kenya before entering the country. You cannot enter Kenya without a valid visa or eTA.

• Convenient online application process.
• No embassy or consulate visits.
• Valid for three months (90 days).
• You can enter Kenya for business, transit or tourism purposes.
• Fast process time and 90 days stay duration (three months).
• Valid for single-entry only (re-entering Kenya requires a new eTA).

How Long Can French Citizens Stay with a Kenya eTA?

With Kenya eTA, French passport holders and citizens can stay in Kenya for three months (which is 90 continuous days). The 90 days stay duration is calculated starting from your arrival date in Kenya. Kenya eTA allows you to enter Kenya single-time only, the same eTA cannot be used to re-visit Kenya.

You should plan your arrival and departure dates within the eTA’s validity period. The validity period starts from the issuance date. Extending your stay with Kenya eTA is possible, but you should meet the extension conditions and criteria.

Documents for Kenya Visa for French Citizens

The Kenya eTA process is online and simple. The online process mandates the submission of a few documents, so have the documents listed below ready before beginning the eTA online application process.

• A valid French passport (ensure your passport has blank pages).
• A travel itinerary (includes your travel plans, arrival and departure dates and flight details).
• A photo (recently taken colour photo).
• Return on onward flight tickets or confirmed plans.
• A valid email ID.
• An accommodation proof (provide your hotel booking details or invitation letter from friends or family members).

Submitting invalid documents or having any discrepancies can disrupt your application process. As a result, your approval might delayed or even denied. Therefore, it’s crucial to double-check every document. In addition, ensure all the information is accurate and up to date. Even small errors, like misspelled names or wrong dates, can cause issues. So, stay careful and review everything before submission. So, check if all the requirements are satisfied and ensure your documents align with Kenya eTA requirements.

Additional document requirements for Kenya eTA includes the following list.

• Proper credit card or bank statements (for proof of funds only when required).
• Business invitation letter or registration document (if you are engaging in business activities in Kenya).
• Valid national ID card and an invitation letter from the host (to stay or visit your friends and family).

Extension of Kenya eTA for French Travelers

French citizens can apply for Kenya eTA extension to prolong their stay. You must have a valid reason to stay in Kenya beyond the authorized stay duration. The eTA extension is an offline process, so you must submit the application form and documents by physically visiting the immigration office. Extensions are permitted only once, and if approved, then you will get a 90 day additional stay.

For the extension process, have a copy of your passport, photo, current eTA and other documents (accommodation proof, return plans, and financial proof). You should submit the application before your current eTA expires. Moreover, a fee is applicable for the Kenya eTA extension process and the processing time is 72 hours.

What is the Application Process for a Kenya eTA from France?

Applying for Kenya eTA from France is an effortless process. Therefore, to apply for Kenya as a French citizen, follow the below steps.

• Visit our Kenya eTA website.
• Check the terms and click the Apply Now tab. 
• You can start the process by providing the information (personal details, then passport information and travel plans).
• Upload the supporting documents (copies of your travel itinerary, passport bio page, photo, etc.).
• Review and submit your eTA form (all the details should be accurate).
• Finally, pay the eTA fee online.

After receiving a confirmation email, you should wait for approval. The processing usually takes 72 hours (3 days) and after the approval, the Kenya eTA will be sent to your email ID. Sometimes, the processing time can take up to 5 days. So, apply in advance and print a copy of your Kenya eTA and carry it with your other travel documents.

Is a Yellow Fever Vaccination Mandatory for French Travelers to Kenya?

It is mandatory only for French travelers who are traveling from or recently visited countries with yellow fever transmission risk. Therefore, the yellow fever vaccination certificate requirements apply to all travelers, including kids aged 1 year. Ensure to get your vaccination certificate after vaccination because you will need to present it to the officials.

Kenya eTA for Kids

French citizens traveling with kids or minors to Kenya must obtain a separate Kenya eTA for each kid. Because Minors cannot be included under their legal guardian or parent’s eTA. The accompanying adult or parent can submit a Kenya eTA online application for the minors.

The documents required for the process include your kid’s photo, passport, accommodation proof and other documents. If the minor is traveling with one guardian or parent, then an additional document, such as a consent letter, is required .

Explore the Fourteen Falls in Kenya

One of the scenic places to visit in Kenya is the Fourteen Falls, which is situated in Thika. It is also a breathtaking natural attraction in Kenya. The falls are named after the Athi River’s 14 cascades, which fall from over a 25-meter-high-cliff. The distinct falls attract a lot of tourists and as a result, nature lovers would love the spot.

The combination of the waterfalls, the surrounding rock formation and the lush landscape creates a natural scenery. You can enjoy a range of tourist activities in Fourteen Falls, such as fishing, boating, hiking trails, birdwatching and nature walks. Engage in guided tour activities if you are keen to explore the surroundings.

The scenic environment of the falls is perfect for planning a picnic or recreational trip in Kenya. Try the boat ride at the falls, it also takes you closer to the falls. As a result, you can view falls from different angles. Follow the safety guidelines instructed by the operators.

Foods to Try in Kenya

French citizens must taste Kenyan cuisine when visiting Kenya. The country offers a variety of traditional foods and street-side delights that you would enjoy tasting.

• The staple dish of Kenya is Ugali. It is made of maize flour and served with meat or vegetables (sometimes with stews).
• Meat lovers should taste the Nyama Choma. It is grilled meat (usually beef or goat) and served with kachumbari.
• The most popular dish in Kenya is Sukuma Wiki, the primary ingredient is Sukuma. It is Kenya’s popular side dish for Ugali.
• The Mahamri is a sweet and dry bread, a popular snack item in Kenya. It is crispy outside and fluffy and soft inside.
• Viazi Karai or pack potatoes, is a must-try street food in Kenya. It is dipped in spiced batter and is common near coastal areas.

Other foods to try in Kenya are Githeri, Chapati, Matoke,Pilau and Mukimo. You can also enjoy tasting Kenya’s street foods in its major towns and cities.

Contact Us for Kenya eTA Assistance

If you need help with your Kenya eTA application, then contact us anytime. Our Kenya eTA helpdesk is available 24/7 to provide quick assistance. All your doubts about the required documents and the application process will also addressed promptly.

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All travellers should obtain a Kenya eTA before starting their trip. The eTA processing time is only three business days and travellers can stay for up to 90 days in Kenya. Learn more at Kenya eTA Application Guide.