There are usually very few things that can go wrong with your ETA Kenya eVisa application. In general they are processed within a few days of submission.
That said things can go wrong….here’s how to avoid it.
What you need to start
The eVisa application is a bit time consuming for Kenya and they have ask for quite a lot of info.
We have only heard of one rejection which was due to a name/passport number that did not match the uploaded document.
Types of ETA/eVisa
There are two main options for Kenya:
- Single entry tourist – Initially up to 3 months max 6 with extension, this is your ETA (Reccomended)
- EAC tourist visa – Multiple entry but only 3 months and CANNOT be extended. You must leave EAC before re-entering on a new visa;
You will need
- Your passport – Must be valid for at least six months from your planned entry date – Max 300kb JPG;
- Photo – A recent photo of yourself – Max 300kb JPG;
- Your travel history – Bit of a nightmare but they request all the places you’ve travelled to in the last five years;
- Some family info – Parents names are a common request;
- Booking confirmation – Accommodation contact for at least one night that you have booked in country inc. contact details – Max 300kb JPG, screenshot of an email is fine;
- A card to pay – It’s $30 per application;
You will (probably) not need
If you’re an EU/US etc. national you are unlikely to need or have requested the following.
- Onward travel – It’s on the form but optional;
- Whole stay accommodation – Generally only one booked stay is requested. It’s assumed that you will stay lots of places and move around;
Getting your ETA
- Visit the eVisa page here;
- Make sure your passport details match EXACTLY what you put on the ETA/eVisa form;
- Ensure your passport has sufficient time on it BEFORE you complete your application;
- Do not use any website that is not an official government website (.go.ke);
What happens next
- Your ETA will be processed, usually quite quickly 1-2 weeks;
- It would seem that most applications are processed in arriving soonest order. If you’re really organised don’t worry if it’s taking some time;
On arrival in Kenya
- Your ETA is a pre-approval, the actual visa will be stamped into your passport on arrival;
- The max time you can have your visa valid for is 3 months for first issue;
- e.g. If you say you’re coming to Kenya for 10 weeks they will add a 3 month visa, if you say less you will get less;
Updated: 22/09/2025