Kenya Visa for US Citizens

US citizens will surely be interested in exploring the diverse attractions in Kenya. To plan a trip to Kenya a visa is essential. The game drives, island stays and wildlife safari are definitely worth the visit. The requirement of securing a Kenya visa for US citizens is completely online. With the eTA system, visiting Kenya has become more accessible to US citizens.

If you are planning for a business visit or game drive in Kenya, then obtaining an eTA for your trip is mandatory.  The online process eliminated visits to the Kenyan consulate or embassy. You must look into the Kenya eTA requirements to know the eligibility criteria. So, obtaining a Kenya visa for US citizens is easier with the streamlined system.

Do US Travelers Need a Kenya eTA?

Most visitors entering Kenya need an eTA, including the US citizens. The Kenya eTA is a mandatory entry process and all eligible travellers must get it before their departure date. After implementing the eTA system, it replaces the traditional visa process.

All eligible individuals (including your infants and kids) are required to enter the country with a separate Kenya eTA. Also, remember that each child should have an eTA permit.

Kenya eTA Details for US Passport Holders

To make an informed decision, US citizens and passport holders should know about the key details of Kenya eTA. You cannot board your flight to Kenya without an eTA or invalid permit. Therefore, ensure that you obtain an approved Kenya eTA in advance of your journey date.

• An eTA must be applied online with the required documents.
• The entry type of eTA is a single entry (you can enter the country once).
• The approximate processing time is 72 hours (it can also take 5 business days).
• From issuance, the eTA will be valid for three months (90 days).
• Family visits, transit purposes, business and leisure trips are permitted.
• The length of stay is 90 days.

What Activities are Not Allowed with a Kenya eTA?

Getting a paid or unpaid job, doing volunteer work and registering for academic courses are strictly prohibited activities on a Kenya eTA. You should not overstay. Engaging in restricted activities under Kenya eTA can also cause penalties and legal issues.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Kenya Visa for US Citizens?

For US citizens, the eTA processing time is 3-5 days (mostly processed within 72 hours). Incomplete information and providing invalid documents can delay your application process. Apply a week or 8 days before your intended journey date. Submit an error-free application to have hassle-free approval.

Kenya eTA Documents Requirement for US Travelers

You must provide your travel documents to apply for an eTA. Along with preparing the required documents, you must also ensure that they meet the specific criteria. Have the copies of the below documents ready prior to the eTA online process.

• A valid US passport.
• Scanned copy of your passport bio page.
• An email ID.
• Accommodation confirmation details (hotel address and details or an invitation letter).
• A recent clear photo (color with plain and white background).
• Return ticket or onward travel plans
• A travel itinerary (your contact details, travel plans, flight details and return date).
• Recent bank statements or other documents (for proof of funds).

In some cases, you should provide additional documents when applying for your Kenya eTA online. It will associated with travel purposes to visit Kenya. You can upload the document copy only in PDF, JPG, and MS Word format.

A business visit to Kenya mandates submitting a registration document and an official invitation letter. If you are transiting through Kenya and need a Kenya transit eTA, then the must-have requirement includes proof of confirmed onward ticket.

How do US Passport Holders Apply for a Kenya eTA?

The eTA process is digital and you should spend only 15-20 minutes to complete your Kenya eTA application process. It has simple steps and does not require visiting the consulate or embassy.

• Visit the website or Kenya eTA portal.
• Access the eTA application form after clicking the Apply Now tab.
• Start filling out the eTA form (enter your travel dates, personal information and passport details).
• Check the copies of the document and upload them correctly.
• Review your Kenya eTA online form completely before submitting it.
• Finally, pay the eTA fee.
• Wait for your application approval (the processing time is 3 days).

Do not leave any entry field empty in your Kenya eTA application form because it can lead to rejection. Avoid applying for an eTA close to your journey date. Therefore, to have a worry-free application process and successful approval, submit your eTA application early.

Types of Kenya eTA Available for US Citizens

US citizens can apply for Kenya eTA that favours their travel plans. The Kenya tourist eTA is for those taking leisure travel, beach vacations and safari drives in Kenya. If you are visiting Kenya for business engagements then, the Kenya business eTA will be ideal for you . 

With a business eTA, you can attend training related to your business, trade fairs, meetings and other short-term business-related activities. Those entering Kenya for tourism or business trips with Kenya eTA are allowed to stay for 90 days. You can plan only a one-time visit because eTA permits only a single entry until its three-month (90 days) validity period. Also, you have to submit specific documents related ty your travel purposes.

If you have a layover and plan to leave the airport, then you need a Kenya transit eTA. Moreover, it’s required if you’ll stay in the country during transit. Transit eTA is valid only for a short duration, which is 72 hours (3 days). It only permits sightseeing and leisure activities. So, you are not allowed to study or engage in business and employment activities with your Kenya transit eTA.

Can US Travelers Extend their Kenya eTA?

US citizens can apply for a Kenya eTA extension during their stay in Kenya. The extension offers an additional 90 day stay (three months) in Kenya, beyond the initially approved three months stay duration. You need to visit the immigration office with the required documents to submit a Kenya eTA extension application form.

A Trip to the Ol Pejeta Conservancy

We all know that safari drives are the key attraction in Kenya, but the country offers other attractions that are worth exploring. The Ol Pejeta Conservancy is situated near the great Mount Kenya. Moreover, the destination is famed for offering memorable wildlife encounters and you can see the Big Five here.

It is a conservation area which houses white rhinos and chimpanzees. The unique wildlife encounter makes it a must-visit place in Kenya. Along with the Big Five, you can also see hyenas, a variety of birds and cheetahs. Enjoy the game drives to spot the wildlife.

If you want to try a new adventure activity, then join the lion-tracking activities. It is a unique activity in Ol Pejeta Conservancy where you can join the rangers and learn about the lion’s everyday challenges, behaviour and movements. You can also Explore the Sweetwater’s Chimpanzee Sanctuary to observe the rescued chimpanzees and gather information.

You can also enjoy your day in the Ol Pejeta Conservancy by seeing the white rhino and taking safaris and community visits to explore their culture. The night game drives are an exciting activity offered in the conservancy and the drives usually last for 1.5 or 2 hours.

Best Paragliding Places in Kenya

The breathtaking valleys and mountain landscapes of Kenya offer many ideal destinations for paragliding activities.

• Kijabe Hills
• Kerio Valley
• Nyahururu
• Diani Beach
• Limuru Highlands
• Watamu

You can choose any of the places listed above. To glide over the coastline, you can also choose the Watamu and Diani Beach locations. After paragliding, you can sit and relax on the beach. The most preferred destination for paragliding in Kenya is the Kerio Valley. The sight of the cliff and valleys will offer the best paragliding experience.

Why Contact Us for Your Kenya eTA?

Contact us to get your Kenya eTA easily. We handle the process smoothly. Moreover, we ensure quick approval. Additionally, you avoid delays. Our helpdesk will also provide you with timely assistance to address your queries.

READ MORE:
Kenya offers a one-year multiple-entry eTA for frequent travelers, allowing multiple visits for tourism or business, with a 90-day stay permitted per visit. Learn more at Kenya One Year Multiple-Entry eTA.