Kenya ETA Requirements Explained (2026): Documents, Fees, Processing Time & Common Mistakes

Everything you need to prepare before applying for your Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in 2026 — including required documents, typical fees, processing timelines, and the most common errors that cause delays.

Reading time: ~10 minutes • Topic: Kenya Entry Requirements
Apply for Your Kenya eTA

Planning a trip to Kenya is exciting — from epic safaris and vibrant cities to the Indian Ocean coast. But before you board your flight, most travelers must complete one important step: the Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). This guide explains the Kenya ETA requirements for 2026 in plain language, so you know exactly what to prepare, how long it typically takes, and how to avoid mistakes that can delay approval.

The ETA process is online and straightforward, but it’s also detail-sensitive. Small issues — like a typo in a passport number, an unclear photo upload, or mismatched travel dates — can slow things down. The goal of this article is to help you apply confidently, with the right documents ready from the start.

Quick reminder: ETA rules can vary by nationality and may change over time. If you’re unsure about a specific exemption or special case, double-check your eligibility before traveling.
Kenya ETA Basics

What Is the Kenya ETA?

The Kenya ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is an online travel authorization required for many foreign nationals entering Kenya. It replaced older processes that relied on traditional visas and visa-on-arrival options, making entry requirements more digital and standardized.

An approved ETA helps you do three things: (1) board your flight to Kenya, (2) present proof of authorization upon arrival, and (3) complete the entry process more smoothly at immigration. The ETA is typically delivered electronically, usually by email, and is linked to your passport details.

“Think of the ETA as your travel clearance — it’s not just paperwork. Airlines may require it before you can board.”
Eligibility

Who Needs a Kenya ETA in 2026?

In 2026, most travelers entering Kenya will need an ETA prior to departure. This commonly includes:

  • Tourism: vacations, safaris, beach stays, cultural trips
  • Business: meetings, events, conferences, short professional visits
  • Family visits: visiting relatives or friends for a short stay

Some travelers may be exempt based on nationality or special status. Because exemptions can change, the safest approach is to verify eligibility for your passport nationality before booking last-minute travel.

Important: Requirements are usually based on nationality — not your country of residence, your airline, or where you’re flying from.
Checklist

Kenya ETA Requirements: Documents You Must Prepare

Most ETA delays happen for one simple reason: the application is submitted with missing, unclear, or mismatched documents. Before starting your application, prepare the following:

Mandatory Documents

  • Valid passport: ideally valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date, with at least one blank page.
  • Passport-style photo: clear, recent, no filters, face fully visible, plain background.
  • Proof of travel: flight confirmation or itinerary showing arrival and departure details.
  • Accommodation details: hotel booking, rental confirmation, or host address if staying with friends/family.

Situational Documents (Sometimes Requested)

  • Invitation letter: if traveling for business or visiting family.
  • Return/onward travel proof: if requested by airline or immigration checks.
  • Basic itinerary: helpful for clarity if your trip includes multiple cities.
Pro tip: Make sure your name and passport number match perfectly across your passport, flight itinerary, and ETA application. Even small differences can cause delays.
Costs

Kenya ETA Fees (2026): What to Expect

The ETA typically includes a government processing fee paid online during the application process. The exact amount and payment options can vary depending on the platform you use and any service assistance chosen.

Key fee notes

  • Fees are usually charged per traveler (including children).
  • Payments are commonly made by credit/debit card.
  • Fees are often non-refundable even if an application is not approved.

Why some travelers pay more than expected

  • Submitting a second application because of a typo or upload error
  • Currency conversion charges from your bank
  • Using optional third-party support services
Timing

Kenya ETA Processing Time (2026): How Long Does It Take?

Processing time can vary, which is why applying early is one of the smartest decisions you can make. While many travelers receive a decision within a few business days, others may experience delays due to document quality, high-volume periods, or verification checks.

Typical processing expectations

  • Normal periods: often a few business days
  • Peak seasons: may take longer (holidays, school breaks, safari high season)
  • Document issues: blurry uploads or mismatches commonly slow down processing
Best practice: Apply at least 1–2 weeks before departure to reduce stress and avoid last-minute surprises.
How It Works

Step-by-Step: How the Kenya ETA Application Process Works

The Kenya ETA application is completed online. While the exact screens may differ, the overall flow generally looks like this:

  • Step 1: Start your application and enter traveler details.
  • Step 2: Add passport information exactly as shown in your passport.
  • Step 3: Upload your passport photo and required supporting documents.
  • Step 4: Review everything carefully (names, numbers, dates).
  • Step 5: Pay the fee online and submit.
  • Step 6: Watch for your ETA decision via email.

After approval, save a digital copy and keep a printed copy with your travel documents. Some airlines and checkpoints still prefer a paper backup.

Avoid Delays

Common Kenya ETA Mistakes That Delay Approval

Many ETA delays come from small, avoidable mistakes. Here are the most common issues travelers run into:

  • Typos in passport details: especially passport number, name spelling, or date of birth.
  • Unclear photo uploads: blurry, shadowed, heavily cropped, or low-resolution images.
  • Email issues: mistyped email addresses or not checking spam/junk folders.
  • Mismatched travel info: dates or names that don’t align with flight or lodging confirmation.
  • Applying too close to departure: leaving no time to fix errors or reapply if needed.
Reality check: Even one wrong digit can trigger a delay or require a new application — which may mean paying fees again.
If You’re Stuck

What to Do If Your Kenya ETA Is Delayed or Pending

If your status shows “pending,” it doesn’t automatically mean something went wrong — it often just means your application is still being reviewed. The key is knowing when to wait and when to act.

When it’s usually okay to wait

  • You applied recently and are still within normal processing time
  • It’s a high-volume travel period

When you should take action

  • Your departure date is close and there has been no update
  • You suspect a typo or uploaded the wrong file
  • You never received confirmation emails (check spam/junk too)

In some cases, correcting errors and reapplying (with accurate information) may be faster than waiting — especially if you’re traveling soon.

Support

Is It Safe to Use a Kenya ETA Assistance Service?

Many travelers use assistance services because they want help uploading documents correctly, avoiding errors, or simply saving time. This is especially common for families, group travel, and travelers applying close to their departure date.

Why travelers choose assistance

  • To reduce mistakes on passport numbers, names, and dates
  • To ensure document photos are clear and correctly formatted
  • To get human support if something looks wrong

What a legitimate service should do

  • Be transparent that it is not the government website
  • Clearly disclose any service fees before you pay
  • Protect your personal information
  • Offer clear, responsive customer support

Assistance can’t guarantee approval, but it can help reduce avoidable errors — which is often what causes delays in the first place.

Wrap-Up

Final Tips for a Smooth Kenya ETA Approval

Before you submit your application, take a moment to run through these final checks:

  • Apply early: ideally 1–2 weeks before departure.
  • Match everything: passport, flight, and accommodation details should align.
  • Upload clean documents: sharp, readable, correctly cropped.
  • Use a reliable email: and check spam/junk folders.
  • Save and print your ETA: keep a digital copy and paper backup.

Start Your Kenya eTA Application

FAQ

Kenya ETA FAQ (2026)

Do children need a Kenya ETA?

In most cases, yes — minors typically need their own ETA. Make sure each traveler has a separate application unless the platform explicitly supports family/group submissions.

Can I change my travel dates after my ETA is approved?

Minor changes may be okay, but significant changes (especially around passport details or trip purpose) can require a new application. When in doubt, it’s safer to apply with the most accurate travel information available.

What if my passport expires soon?

If your passport does not meet typical validity requirements, your application may be delayed or denied. Renewing your passport before applying is often the cleanest solution if you’re close to the validity threshold.

Should I print my ETA?

Yes. Even when an ETA is electronic, a printed copy can help during airline check-in, transit points, or if you lose access to email while traveling.